Outbox provides the space-poor urban homeowner with the most secure, discreet, and convenient space outside, underground. Keep batteries charged and bikes safe in your own exclusive storage.
Outbox can be conveniently located in your front garden, providing easy access for two cycles, e-bikes, or a mobility scooter on an electric lifting platform in a secure, weatherproof container, underground. This valuable storage space can be used to store other household items or even a compact cargo bike.
A small security fob controls access, opening the lid, and lifts your bikes to ground level; use the fob again to lower the bikes and lock the container. Three levels of security; internal automatic locking, manual deadlock and securing bikes to the platform will help to deter thieves. Internal power sockets allow charging and lights for operating in the dark.
Two standard cycles or e-bikes, a mobility scooter, or a compact cargo bike. It may be possible to store 3 racing bikes given their smaller footprint. Internal space is approximately 2000mm long x 1068mm wide x 1168mm high with a weight limit of 300kgs, this space can be used to store any items that fall within these limitations. Specifications subject to change while in development.
An underground container with steel security lid and integrated lifting platform, operated electronically via security fob. The container also has lighting and power sockets for charging. An additional manual operated deadlock is installed in the lid. Outbox will provide guidance on installation and recommended installers.
Roughly £3-4k. Cost will depend on location, access, ground survey, proximity to utilities, power supply, building foundations and walls, customers choice of resurfacing.
Outbox plan to develop various accessories to enhance security and convenience of your Cycle Garage.
Reinforced Steel Lid with high security deadlock.
Except for new build properties, most installations will require a ground survey. This is a crucial safety step to locate and avoid any underground utilities like water pipes, gas mains, electrical cables, or drainage. It is important to understand that surveys will reveal most utilities, but even with the most sophisticated scanning equipment, obstructions can still be missed. In the event underground utilities prohibit the installation and an alternative location can’t be found, Outbox will provide a full refund of the cost of the Cycle Garage (excluding survey and installation costs).
Subject to change until launch. Each location will need to be assessed according to the ground type, proximity and depth of building foundations. In some cases, the opinions of a Structural Engineer will be required. As a general rule, a minimum gap of 1 meter between the Cycle Garage and the wall should be planned. This avoids issues with support for foundations and potential underpinning. Be aware that you will require space around the box to access your bikes. The box takes up at least 2.3m long x 1.4m wide (1.6m depth). Depending on proximity to walls and foundations, this may require a garden that has an install location that is at least 4m x 3m.
The launch version of the Cycle Garage is only suitable for private pedestrian areas such as gardens, patios and yards. It is not currently suitable for driveways (future version) The unit must not encroach onto public paths or highways. The area must be clear of obstructions and utilities.
Installation times are subject to change as we develop the product and approaches to installation in different locations. Stages require concrete set meaning the process may need to be spread over 1-2 weeks. Access to electrics and surfacing will influence schedules.
Much will depend on the assessment of the installers and how much space is available. Initial ground surveys will require clear access and on occasion, may involve small exploratory digs to establish location of underground obstructions. Excavation of the main hole and cable run may require a mini-digger and shouldn’t take more than a day. Delivery of concrete or on-site mixing may be required at different stages. Delivery and potential craning of the container into the pit may require parking suspension. All these processes will create some noise during working hours. As with all building works dust and dirt will be kept to a minimum.
Permission is required under current planning legislation, relating to any ‘structure’ in the front of a property. Strictly speaking, any shed-type structure in front of a property requires planning consent, but it seems councils can turn a blind eye, until a neighbour complains. Given the permanent nature of the Cycle Garage, we recommend applying to your local planning office. Councils are under pressure to promote green forms of transport. In a test application, the planning officer suggested that this would be more acceptable in conservation areas due to its ‘minimal visual impact’. Outbox will work towards the Cycle Garage coming under ‘Permitted Development’ meaning ultimately you won’t need to apply for installation.
Unless otherwise instructed, installation contractors will remove excess excavated soil.
The launch version of Outbox will feature a wireless fob that opens the lid and raises the platform to ground level. Once the contents are accessed, the fob can be used to close and lock the box. We also supply keys to operate an additional manual deadlock.
Outbox’s primary concern is security. We are exploring ways to reinstate power using backup power. In the launch version, access will only be possible by contacting an Outbox technician or waiting until power is reinstated. In the rare event that your cycle garage malfunctions and doesn’t open, we will send an Outbox technician to fix the issue.
Outbox is designed with a slightly raised lid to mitigate water ingress. Careful consideration should be taken when choosing a location to make sure the area is well drained and water can drain away, stopping build up around the unit. The lid has seals but will not stop ingress during extreme flooding where the lid is submerged.
Maintenance will require occasional lubrication and clearing mechanisms, seals and hinges of debris. If the box is accessed when it rains, water may need to be removed from the bottom of the box. Outbox plan to offer an upgrade program with periodic servicing which will include inspection and testing of the Cycle Garage.
Estimated retail price is likely to be £6-7k plus installation costs. The final price will depend on location, site survey, ground conditions and customisation options.
Quoted cost for the Cycle garage includes VAT and excludes survey and installation costs.
Outbox will provide details of warranties at launch.
Outbox plans to offer BIM models prior to launch.
Planned for future development.
Absolutely, without the potential issues of utilities and power connections, installation can be arranged at the early planning stage.
The appeal of Outbox is that it is for the users’ exclusive use and subsequently, only has space for two bikes. It will be possible to install individual multiple units for apartments or housing developments.
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