Lithuania’s newest, although already big, eco-startup fascinates Richard Branson

 Bike stores in about ten major markets of the world should be reached by electric-bike-engines or Rubbees by November of this year. This initiative by three young guys from Lithuania is a true example of how eco-entrepreneurship can be used to raise the society’s quality of life, as much as benefit the environment.

Rubbee is a small yet miraculous engine, which, according to its developers, allows turning almost any bike electric in a matter of just a few seconds. After fitting the machine weighting only 6.5 pounds (that is about 2.9 kg in case you have wondered) on a normal bike, the no-peddling speed of 25 kilometers per hour can be achieved, and no batteries are required!

Simply combined two hobbies

The founder - Gediminas Nemanis - says that Rubbee has no analogues anywhere in the world. From the other inventions that are designed to make bikes electric, it differs in its much lighter weight and a very easy process of installation on basically any bike.

G.Nemanis came up with the idea of creating an electric bicycle motor a few years ago."I really liked constructing various things - jet engines, electric bikes and scooters, radio-controlled models, etc. At the same time, I extensively rode a BMX bike. One day I decided that I wanted a cool electric bike, yet without any unnecessary wires and battery packs. I wanted something that I could put on and remove from the wheel in just a few moments" - said the founder.

Therefore, he joined his two hobbies – cycling and construction – for the creation of Rubbee. This electrical bike motor turn out to be a sweet example of how an enterprise can be both eco-friendly and very prospective (money wise, of course).

The billionaire was literally amazed

Presenting the idea to the one of the world’s top entrepreneurs – Richard Branson – left the founder stunned. “He was so impressed with this product, and repeatedly kept on saying: "Amazing, amazing!". Richard Branson mostly liked the fact that the motor is suitable for almost every type of bicycles, "- said Gediminas.

Everyone should learn from this great story. Don’t be afraid to turn your biggest hobbies into businesses, generate fresh ideas, and try making something that would not only bring you money, but would benefit everyone, including the eco-system of the world.

Watch how the Rubbee works here: http://vimeo.com/68219134