A century ago, bicycle companies were rushing to break into the "horseless carriage" (aka automobile) market. Now, car companies are pulling a 180, warming up to the idea of developing and even selling bicycles.

The latest is the Ford E-Bike concept, an ultralightweight bike made of a carbon fiber and aluminum frame, an electric motor-assist front wheel, a 9.3 amp-hour lithium-ion battery, and an internal hub 11-speed transmission. The electric motor can generate speeds of up to 15.5 mph and offer pedaling assistance for up to 53 miles.

Will Ford ever market it? Not right away, but it suggests that the company's technology and design expertise can shift to other types of vehicles, including more sustainable ones.

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