In urban environments, cyclists often face a lack of accessible and eco-friendly ways to charge their devices on the go. Traditional charging infrastructure relies heavily on electricity from non-renewable sources and is typically limited to stationary locations like cafes or transit stations. This disconnect not only inconveniences commuters and recreational riders, but also undermines the potential of biking as a sustainable, tech integrated lifestyle.
Pedals is a concept born from the idea that movement can power more than just motion; it can power connection, sustainability, and independence. Our vision is to one day create a simple, efficient system that allows cyclists to generate their own electricity as they ride, turning every trip into an opportunity to stay charged and reduce environmental impact.
While Pedals is not yet a product or company, the idea represents a step toward reimagining urban mobility, where clean energy and convenience go hand in hand. It’s a small vision with the potential to create big change.
Pedals was developed during the Design and Entrepreneurship project at Shad, where our team was challenged to find innovative ways to integrate sustainable practices into Canadian communities. Through research, design thinking, and rapid prototyping, we created a solution that harnesses kinetic energy from bicycles to charge electronic devices, combining sustainability, convenience, and urban mobility. Our work culminated in a final pitch to a panel of judges, where we were awarded Best Presentation for both the strength of our concept and the clarity of our delivery. The recognition affirmed our ability to tackle real-world problems creatively, communicate ideas effectively, and work as a high-performing team under tight deadlines.
