The bike of the future -- a new innovation by Durnham-based company Organic Transit brings commuters a vehicle that is a fusion of a bike and a car. The ELF or "Organic Transit Vehicle" combines bike pedals with an electric-powered motor in a semi-enclosed, futuristic-shaped bicycle.

The 130-pound ELF can reach speeds of up to 30 mph combining the power of its pedals and electricity. Its 750-watt motor is rechargeable by plugging into an electrical outlet; the motor fully charges in one hour. Riders may also opt to use its solar panels attached on the roof to charge the motor which will fully charge in seven hours. On their website, Organic Transit also boasts of the ELF's ability to, "Go for 1,800 miles on the energy equivalent of one gallon of gasoline."

In a report by Huffpost, Organic Transit CEO Rob Cotter, explained, "A combination of environmental catastrophes, high fuel costs, climate change and a migration of people moving to the cities all combined for a trend of people looking for an automotive alternative.

Since the ELF may still be considered a bike, owners save on the cost of registration, insurance, fuel, car repair and maintenance. The "green" vehicle is priced at $5,000.

In the same Huffpost report, Cottter added, "Issues like weather, steep hills, lack of carrying capacity, falling over and safety concerns steer many away from bicycles. The ELF was designed to address those concerns, contribute to the rider's health, cost savings and lessen their environmental impact."

With its futuristic shape, green color, and bicycle-like features combined with a motor, the ELF can really turn heads. Organic Transit currently builds one ELF everyday to supply the growing demand. Cotter explained, "We're about to open up another facility on the West Coast to increase our efficiency sometime this year to get up to four per day,"