Innovator Converts Disposable Vape Batteries to Power E-Bike

Meet Mark Hopgood

Mark Hopgood, 55, a software engineer and musician from Sevenoaks, Kent, came up with this innovative idea earlier in 2024 after his electric bike broke down, and he was quoted £1,200 for a new one.

Together with his son Ned, 20, Mark has been collecting hundreds of discarded vapes over the past year. He experimented with their batteries to power various devices, including his iPhone and musical equipment.

Mark Hopgood came up with the idea earlier in 2024 after his electric bike broke down (Collect/PA Real Life) (PA)

In an inspiring display of creativity and resourcefulness, a father has transformed 70 disposable vape batteries into an e-bike capable of reaching speeds of up to 15mph. Mark Hopgood, a 55-year-old software engineer and musician from Sevenoaks, Kent, embarked on this project after his electric bike broke down and he was quoted £1,200 for a replacement.

Mark Hopgood, 55, made an e-bike powered by disposable vape batteries that is capable of reaching speeds of up to 15mph (Collect/PA Real Life) (PA)

Ingenious Solution to a Common Problem

Mark, along with his son Ned, 20, has been collecting hundreds of discarded vapes over the past year. Experimenting with their batteries, he powered various electronic devices, including his iPhone and musical equipment. This extensive testing led to the creation of his unique e-bike.

The Build Process

Mark purchased a motorized wheel and spent weeks in his garden shed, meticulously testing each of the 70 batteries to ensure compatibility. In May, he successfully tested his homemade e-bike on a three-mile stretch to Sevenoaks, planning a "stage two" design to tidy up the wires.

Mark is now planning stage two of his design (Collect/PA Real Life) (PA)

Safety and Innovation

Safety was paramount in Mark's design. He warned that proper precautions are necessary to prevent the batteries from overheating and catching fire. His prototype uses an array of 70 batteries, reducing stress on individual cells and enhancing safety.

Community Engagement

Mark hopes to share his blueprints and run workshops for those interested in creating their own e-bike. He emphasizes the importance of understanding battery safety and the potential of repurposing vape batteries.

From Idea to Reality

Mark's journey began when his electric bike broke down in February. Faced with a costly repair quote, he sought an alternative solution. He bought a seven-speed pink Cannondale Adventure 2 and converted it into an e-bike, utilizing his knowledge of vape batteries.

Mark took his 'prototype' e-bike for a test ride in Sevenoaks(Collect/PA Real Life) (PA)

Practical Applications

Mark had already been using vape batteries to create portable power banks and rechargeable lanterns. Collecting vapes with his son's help, he chose Elf Bar batteries for their power and abundance, ensuring a reliable power source for his e-bike.

Testing and Future Plans

After successfully testing his e-bike, Mark plans to refine his design by enclosing the batteries in a proper casing. This step will enhance safety and aesthetics, making the bike more user-friendly.

Workshops and Education

Recognizing the growing interest in e-bikes, Mark aims to educate others on building their own bikes safely using repurposed vape batteries. He believes this project can help people understand e-bike mechanics and battery safety, potentially leading to cost-effective solutions for e-bike enthusiasts.

To learn more about Mark's innovative projects and music, visit Facebook.com/mairkmusic.

Read the original article and view the video here: Man collects old disposable vapes to power his e-bike and charge his phone | The Independent

- Sharri Van Zyl | 22/07/2024