Photos: These bikes hum and fold

Yamaha Motor's new electric motorcycle Passol-L, on display at the Japan International Cycle Show in November 2005, comes with an in-wheel electric motor powered by a lithium-ion battery.

This prototype "Locker Cycle" from Japanese manufacturer Pearl Metal is designed for stashing in coin-operated lockers at train stations.

The Locker Cycle, carrying the Captainstag brand, is expected to go on sale in Japan in 2006.

Fold this bicycle, and you get a hand cart. The "Carry Bike," from bicycle maker Lutz, features small wheels and suspension. It's priced between 38,000 yen ($330) and 48,000 yen, depending on the size.

Interest in electric bikes is also growing across the Pacific Ocean from Japan. Los Angeles-based EV Global Motors offers the Mini E-bike, which can be plugged into a standard wall outlet and which folds to a fairly compact 32 inches long by 14 inches wide by 31 inches high. Prices start at $1,395. The company is backed by legendary Chrysler frontman Lee Iacocca.

In Britain, start-up Ultra Motor is hoping to jump-start the market for personal transportation and clean vehicles. Here, inventor Vasily Shkondin stands next to one of Ultra Motor's electric bikes.