In the past, we've written about how postapocalyptic fiction often incorrectly portrays transportation. In the event of a world-ending catastrophic event, it wouldn't take long for supplies of refined fossil fuels — such as gasoline and diesel — to run out. That much is obvious. What's less obvious is that fuel stockpiles that remain can only be preserved for so long before they eventually degrade and become useless. That process might take months or years, but the clock would be ticking, and you won't be able to replenish your vehicle's gas unless you know someone who can drill for crude oil and operate a refinery.
While this makes for great entertainment, it's not exactly realistic. (Image courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures)
Beyond that, it's obviously impractical to be driving a gas-guzzling monster truck in a situation where fuel is limited. We enjoy the Mad Max movies as much as anyone, but we have to admit that the portrayal of marauders cruising the wasteland in armored semis decades after the apocalypse is unrealistic.
In reality, a small, efficient electric vehicle is a great option for that type of scenario — but we're not saying you should build a bug-out Nissan Leaf. An electric bike can be charged sustainably from solar panels in an off-grid location, and offers great range and maneuverability as opposed to a larger car. These are some of the reasons we took an interest in the UBCO 2×2 electric utility bike at Overland Expo.
As Mike Glover of Fieldcraft Survival explains in this episode of RECOILtv Transport, many bug-out situations will be more of a marathon than a sprint. So while the UBCO bike will only do 30mph, it can carry up to 400 pounds (including rider) and cover 50 to 75 miles per charge. It's nearly silent, and uses a 2-wheel-drive system for improved off-road performance — a feature that's reminiscent of the classic ROKON gas-powered utility bikes. The battery packs are removable and interchangeable, so you can carry a spare to double the range. There are even USB ports and a 12V outlet for charging other devices such as your phone, GPS, lights, or tools.
So before you roll your eyes at what resembles an electric off-road moped, remember that it might be a much better option than that tough-looking dirt bike covered in spikes and skulls if the world really ended.
The 2018 UBCO 2×2 starts at $7,000; spare 48Ah battery packs are $2,000. For more info, go to UBCObikes.com/US.