Author Archives: Annick Roetynck

About Annick Roetynck

Annick is the Manager of LEVA-EU, with decades of experience in two-wheeled and light electric mobility.

• CityQ Awarded Green ICT Grant

  17/12/2020 07:08 Comments Off on CityQ Awarded Green ICT Grant

  December 2020 – LEVA-EU member CityQ and their project with UpSteam resulted in a Norwegian and Estonian grant, ICT Green. CityQ will deliver 10 customized cargo ebikes for the mobile carwash teams of UpSteam by the beginning of 2021.

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  The project between CityQ and UpSteam has been awarded a Norwegian – Estonia grant, ICT Green. This award is a business development program aiming to increase value creation and sustainable growth in the Estonian business sector.

  UpSteam ordered 10 customized cargo ebikes from CityQ this year in Autumn. The LEVA-EU member plans to deliver their vehicles early 2021. This will enable UpSteam to deploy mobile carwashing teams with high tech, weather proof ebikes.

  “UpSteam is a green clean tech company, so replacing our own car traffic with cycling makes sense. And with CityQ we can bring all our equipment by ebike – and not having to worry about traffic, parking or car free areas. It is efficient, sustainable and innovating – aligned with our UpSteam mission,” says Martin Kristerson in UpSteam.

  

  “In order to replace car traffic with cycling, cities need this type of innovation. Only 30% of us cycle in bad weather. CityQ makes cycling more convenient. And similar to electric cars we replace mechanics with software and connectivity. As with a Tesla car or your smart phone, CityQ can be repaired, updated and added newfunctionalities via the web – by automatic software updates and new App versions,” according to founder of CityQ, Morten Rynning.

  For more information, go to www.cityq.biz or watch their introduction video.

• Sustainable Urban Mobility Indicators benchmarking Tool launched

  07:04 Comments Off on Sustainable Urban Mobility Indicators benchmarking Tool launched

  Source: Eltis – The European Commission has released a comprehensive set of urban mobility indicators, which can be used by cities to monitor and evaluate the implementation of their Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans (SUMPs). 

  An important dimension in the implementation of SUMPs is the monitoring and evaluation of the progress made by the measures contained within these. This is important to ensure that the SUMP is delivering for the city as anticipated or, if not, to enable changes to be made. At the same time, such monitoring is able to demonstrate how a city is contributing towards the delivery of relevant national and EU policy goals.

  Cities and regions have at their disposal tools to identify the strengths and shortcomings of their mobility system: sustainable urban mobility indicators are essential for this exercise. In order to support this, the European Commission has made available a comprehensive set of indicators to assist cities in the process of monitoring and evaluating their mobility systems. The indicator set has also been designed to enable cities to measure improvements stemming from novel mobility policies or practices.

  The sustainable urban mobility indicators (SUMI) benchmarking tool, not only allows cities to assess the performance of their own policies, but also to compare their performance to that of their counterparts. The tool’s indicator set is divided between core and non-core indicators, covering a wide array of mobility-related dimensions. These range from the affordability of public transport for mobility-impaired groups to road deaths and energy efficiency, among others.

  Find the sustainable urban mobility indicators tool by the European Commission here.

  Photo by sergio souza on Unsplash.

• New Spanish law to require 30 km/h speed limit in urban areas

  07:02 Comments Off on New Spanish law to require 30 km/h speed limit in urban areas

  Source: Eltis – The Spanish Minister of the Interior has announced that the Council of Ministers has approved a proposal to significantly amend traffic legislation in order to improve road safety. The aim is to reduce the number of deaths and serious injuries in road accidents by 50% over the coming decade, in line with European Union and World Health Organisation recommendations. The long-term target will be to reduce these figures to zero by 2050.

  Amongst the package of legal reforms, a Royal Decree was approved to amend the General Circulation Regulations and the General Vehicle Regulations on urban traffic measures. The purpose of these changes is to reduce the death toll on roads in cities, which increased marginally between 2018 and 2019, whilst regulating newly emerging modes of urban mobility.

  The standard sets the new speed limits on urban roads, based on their classification:

  • The speeds on single lane roads with a pavement which does not differ in height from the road’s surface will now be limited to 20 km/h.
  • Roads with a single lane each way will be limited to 30 km/h.
  • Roads with 2 or more lanes each way will remain unchanged with a limit of 50 km/h.

  The new limits will be applied 6 months after their announcement in the Official Gazette of the State. This will allow time for drivers to familiarise themselves with the changes and for local authorities to implement the necessary signage.

  The Minister emphasised that changing the speed limit from 50 km/h to 30 km/h could reduce the likelihood of deaths in road accidents five-fold. Moreover, this change is not expected to impact urban traffic journey times.

  Meanwhile, similar reforms are being made in other European Member States. In the Netherlands a majority in the House of Representatives recently approved a proposal to reduce the speed limit on streets in built-up areas from 50 km/h to 30 km/h. Other regions are following suit, with the governing coalition of the Belgian capital Brussels agreeing to apply a default 30 km/h limit throughout the city, starting in January 2021.

  At EU level, in October, the European Commission and the Florence School of Regulation organised a seminar with experts, researchers and stakeholders on speed and speed management in European road safety policy. The Conclusions are available online. Participants highlighted the current state of play with regard to speed in the EU and supported the issuance of guidelines on speed at EU level.

  Original article first published 10 November 2020 by La Moncloa.

  Photo by Jonas Stolle on Unsplash.

• Second TRL-survey on-line

  14/12/2020 11:40 Comments Off on Second TRL-survey on-line

  The second TRL on-line survey for their study on safety requirements for LEVs is online until 4th January.

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  At the request of the European Commission, TRL is carrying out a study aimed at identifying the minimum safety requirements for safe use of light, electric vehicles on public roads. The study is also meant to assist the Commission in possible changes of vehicle categorization and technical requirements in the L-category. LEVA-EU welcomes this initiative since the trade association has been consistently arguing that current type-approval needs a fundamental change. The legislation creates huge bottlenecks for light, electric vehicles.

  A first on-line survey for the study took place in October. TRL has now launched a second survey, in which they ask to rate a range of potential regulatory measures. The survey will be online until 4th January.

  If you haven’t received a direct email from TRL inviting you to complete the survey and you wish to do so, please contact Rosie Sharp at TRL, rsharp@trl.co.uk.

  In October, LEVA-EU has organized a series of on-line meetings to provide LEV-companies with a better understanding of the current legislation and the problems resulting from those rules. The presentations and on-line recordings of these meetings are available upon simple request to daan@leva-eu.com. There were 4 meetings, respectively on:

  • E-bikes & Speed Pedelecs
  • E-cargobiles
  • PLEVs
  • 3- & 4-Wheels

  In the framework of this ongoing review, LEVA-EU has proposed to introduce the concept of Zero-Tailpipe Emission (ZEV) vehicles to allow all light, electric vehicles to enjoy the same commercial success as electric bicycles with pedal assistance up to 25 km/h and 25W. Further details on this proposal are here: https://leva-eu.com/leva-eu-proposes-zev-concept-for-light-electric-vehicles-to-give-manufacturers-same-commercial-success-as-e-bikes/

  After this second on-line survey, TRL will organize in January an on-line workshop, in which they will discuss a shortlist of potential measures with the LEVA-sector. The study is expected to be completed by February 2021.

• RAPEX Warnings 2020

  11/12/2020 13:31 Comments Off on RAPEX Warnings 2020

  The Rapid Exchange of Information System is the EU rapid alert system for unsafe consumer products and the measures taken by the member states to deal with that safety problem. The Commission publishes a weekly overview of RAPEX notifications. Below you will find notifications relating to light, electric vehicles. To consult the full details of a notification on the Commission’s website, just click on the week.

  Week	Brand	Type
  Week 50
  Product: Electric Scooter	Techlife	Model: X9 Risk type:  Injuries The scooter is equipped with inadequate element connecting platform with handlebar and front wheel. Cracks may occur in the handlebar, leading to this element’s breaking. The user might fall off the scooter and suffer injuries. / The product does not comply with the requirements of the Machinery Directive. Measures taken by economic operators: Recall of the product from end users (By: Manufacturer)
  Week 46
  Product: self-balancing vehicle	Momo Design	Model: LONDON65 MD-H65 Risk type:  Electric shok, fire  Water may enter in the product’s charger, and the it is not resistant to moisture. This can damage the product’s electric components causing it to overheat and catch fire. It may also short circuit and make accessible parts live, and a user may suffer an electric shock. / The product does not comply with the requirements of the Machinery Directive and the relevant standard IEC 60335-2-114. Measures taken by economic operators: Withdrawal of the product from the market (by: Distributor)
  Week 43
  Product: Electric Scooter	Oxelo	Model: X7, X7S Risk type:  Injuries   The steering column tube can break. As a result, the user might loose control and fall off the scooter and suffer injuries. / The product does not comply with the requirements of the Machinery Directive. Measures taken by economic operators: Recall of the product from end users (By: Retailer). Company recall page:  https://www.decathlon.mt/c/367-product-recall
  Week 42
  Product: self-balancing scooter	Techlife	Model: X7, X7S Risk type:  Injuries   Cracks may occur in the handlebar, leading to this element’s breaking. The user might fall off the scooter and suffer injuries. / The product does not comply with the requirements of the Machinery Directive. Measures taken by economic operators: Recall of the product from end users (By: Manufacturer) Company recall page:  https://techlife.pl/info/techlife-akcja-serwisowa-modele-techlife-x7-oraz-x7s.html.
  Week 34
  Product: self-balancing scooter	Manta	Model: MSB001 VIPER Risk type:  Burns, Fire   The battery can easily overcharge, leading to overheating which can result in burns, explosion, or fire.  The product does not comply with the requirements of the Machinery Directive and the relevant European standard EN 62133-2.  Measures taken by economic operators: Stop of sales (By: Importer). Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Distributor): Ban on the marketing of the product and any accompanying measures.
  Week 22
  Product: electric folding bicycle	BIZOBIKE	Model: 7EVEN+ Risk type:  Fire   The battery can overcharge and overheat. This will increase the risk of fire. The product does not comply with the relevant European Standard EN 62133-2.   Measures taken by economic operators: Stop of sales (By: Importer) Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Other): Recall of the product from end users
  Week 3
  Product: hoverboard	ENet	Model: P5B Hoverboard Risk type:  Electric shock, Fire, Injuries   The wheels of the hoverboard can inadvertently operate while the device is being held off the ground by the user. Consequently, the hand or other body parts of the person could become trapped, leading to injuries. The charger lacks an adequate over-current protection device and has accessible live parts. Additionally, the creepage and clearance distances between primary and accessible secondary circuits are insufficient. Consequently, the user could receive an electric shock or cause the product to overheat leading to fire. The product does not comply with the requirements of the Low Voltage and Machinery Directives and the relevant European standard EN 62368-1. Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Distributor): Withdrawal of the product from the market.
  Product: self-balancing scooter	P10 Wheel New	Model: P10H Hoverboard / ZH-42-2000 (Charger) Risk type: Injuries   The wheels of the hoverboard can inadvertently operate while the device is being held off the ground by the user. Consequently, the hand or other body parts of the person could become trapped, leading to injuries. The product does not comply with the requirements of the Machinery Directive. Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Distributor): Withdrawal of the product from the market

• Commission proposes to modernise EU legislation on batteries

  10/12/2020 12:46 Comments Off on Commission proposes to modernise EU legislation on batteries

  Today, the European Commission proposes to modernise EU legislation on batteries, delivering its first initiative among the actions announced in the new Circular Economy Action Plan. Batteries that are more sustainable throughout their life cycle are key for the goals of the European Green Deal and contribute to the zero pollution ambition set in it. They promote competitive sustainability and are necessary for green transport, clean energy and to achieve climate neutrality by 2050. The proposal addresses the social, economic and environmental issues related to all types of batteries.

  In a first reaction, LEVA-EU Partner Recharge welcomes the proposal as “a meaningful legislative framework that will close the gap in existing legislation and can level the playing field with international actors“. However, the battery trade association also issues a stark warning: “In today’s proposal we see a high level of complexity and fear that this will translate into over-regulating fast-paced, innovative industries such as batteries or electric mobility. Closing the gap with international competition will depend on long-term investments and a coherent regulatory framework.”

  LEVA-EU is currently analyzing the Commission’s proposal and will consult with its members on an accurate response for the benefit of the LEV-sector. For more information, please contact Annick Roetynck, +32 9 233 60 05, annick@leva-eu.com

  The Commission’s proposal is here, the annexes to the proposal here.
  The EU press release on the proposal is here
  Recharge’s initial response is here.

• The New Pivot Shuttle Unveiled

  12:07 Comments Off on The New Pivot Shuttle Unveiled

  LEVA-EU member Pivot pushes electric performance into a whole new realm with class leading power, range, and big mountain capability. Built from the finest materials, incorporating a new Shimano EP8 motor, and boasting a massive 726 watt/hour battery, the Shuttle redefines trail riding.

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  Pivot is proud to unveil the newly redesigned Shuttle. With its sleek integration of motor and battery, and Pivot’s proprietary carbon fiber construction, the Shuttle revolutionized electric assist mountain biking when it was introduced.

  Shimano’s new EP8 motor is a fitting complement to the Shuttle’s trail capabilities. It’s lighter, quieter and more powerful than its award-winning predecessor and is the perfect match for the Shuttle’s progressive geometry, super capable suspension and drop-dead good looks.

  The dw-link suspension and metric Fox DPX2 shock provides 140 mm of plush, controlled performance, matched with a stout, 160mm travel Fox 38 fork. Chassis, suspension, motor, and battery integrate together at the pinnacle of eMTB evolution.

  ”With the new Shuttle, we build on our vision of making an insanely capable all-mountain bike that cleanly incorporates electric-assist. With more aggressive geometry, a super-refined integrated design, and a big increase in suspension performance matched to a perfectly tuned dw-link design, the new Shuttle is an incredibly fun bike even without mentioning that it’s pedal assist. Add the superior performance of Shimano’s new EP8 system and the bike’s incredible range and you get a whole new level of eMTB experience,”

  says Chris Cocalis, Pivot’s founder and CEO.

  The new Shuttle will be available in Treeline Green with orange accents and is available in all sizes, at key Pivot dealers worldwide. For more information visit: https://store.pivotcycles.com/en/bike-shuttle-us-v2.
  

• Eddie Eccleston appointment as SBS-expert extended

  12:05 Comments Off on Eddie Eccleston appointment as SBS-expert extended

  Further to the call for experts published in June 2020, the SBS General Assembly confirmed the selection of 61 experts to represent the European SME position on standardisation Technical Committees, Sub-Committees and Working Groups in CEN, CENELEC, ETSI, ISO and IEC.
  
  The selected experts, from 15 countries across Europe, will be active on 70 standardisation Technical Committees and more than 150 Working Groups, allowing SBS to influence the development of standards across more than 14 sectors. 

  LEVA-EU is very pleased with the reappointment of Eddie Eccleston to defend SME-interests in WG 5 – EPACs and WG 9 – (e)cargobikes of CEN TC 333.

• UK shifts position on dumping

  09/12/2020 19:11 Comments Off on UK shifts position on dumping

  Although in an earlier statement, the UK Department for International Trade announced its intention to remove the anti-dumping duties on Chinese conventional bicycles, the department has now decided to change that position. Not only the measures on conventional bikes will be upheld, what’s more the measures on electric bikes from China will also be maintained.

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  The Department changed position following the appeal from a very small group of UK based producers. Though very small, their market share was found to be above 1%, enough to change the decision.

  All other questions relating to the impact of Brexit on rules and regulations remain unanswered to date. The UK has left the Commission’s Motorcycle Working Group that confers on the EU type-approval for the L-category including electric cycles. However, that resignation says nothing about the continuation of type-approval rules in UK law after Brexit.

  On the other hand, it was confirmed last week that British experts will continue to work in the CEN working groups for cycles excluded from type-approval and this until December 2021. However, the question as to whether the UK will continue to use the Machinery Directive, as a basis for EU harmonized standards remains unanswered.