Author Archives: EU LEVA

• Near-miss analysis provides insight into accident causes

  17/03/2025 18:02 Comments Off on Near-miss analysis provides insight into accident causes

  Source: Fietsberaad

  To assess the circumstances surrounding near-miss incidents involving cyclists, researchers from University College London (UCL) tasked 60 London cycling commuters with riding for two weeks with a GoPro camera.

  The results revealed that most of the near-misses occurred on roads without cycling infrastructure and because motorists did not give enough space when passing.

  Study rationale

  Near-accidents are much more common than actual accidents which result in damage or injury. Analysis of these can therefore provide insight into the underlying causes of road safety and help prevent future accidents.

  The study participants – 60 adults who cycle-commute in London – were given a helmet with a GoPro camera with a 360-degree output by researchers from UCL, to use as they commuted for two weeks. Every time they experienced a near-accident, the participants had to say “near-miss”. Using voice recognition, the researchers were then able to extract the correct images from the recordings based on the time of the incident. Recorded results included the road users involved, traffic density, the degree of mixed traffic, cycling infrastructure and road and intersection characteristics for each event.

  Near-miss causes

  In most near-misses, the participants were given too little space by passing motorists. This was followed by cases in which cyclists were cut off by motorists turning left or right, or leaving a parking space or side street. Most incidents occurred during the evening rush hour, with fewer in the morning. The speed of the cyclists was below 30 km/h prior to the incidents and usually involved a car. Most accidents occurred on roads without cycling infrastructure, although cutting-off was more common on separate cycle paths.

  In total, the participating cyclists registered around a hundred near-misses, roughly one every three hours. Men recorded more incidents than women, especially those that involved passing with too little space but also when leaving parking spaces. They also often were riding faster when near-misses occurred. Women experienced more near-misses with pedestrians.

  Assessing the risks

  The researchers calculated the risk of an accident based on the number of near-misses per 100 kilometres. This analysis showed that the risk increased during the morning rush hour and when cycling for longer on 50 km/h roads. A higher cycling speed and longer cycling on shared infrastructure led to a lower risk. Participants who had not had a cycling accident in the previous year reported relatively fewer near-misses.

  Researchers’ advice

  Based on the results, the researchers advise policymakers to use campaigns to encourage motorists to give cyclists more space and to be careful when turning. They also advised that there should also be more cycling infrastructure so that people can cycle more safely, not only on busy streets but also in quieter residential areas, which some cyclists prefer to cycle through.  

• Amsterdam Stadspas holders can claim €1,000 trade-in discount on electric mopeds or scooters

  17:53 Comments Off on Amsterdam Stadspas holders can claim €1,000 trade-in discount on electric mopeds or scooters

  Source: Gemeente Amsterdam

  Amsterdam residents who have a Stadspas (City Pass) are able to trade in their old fossil-fuel moped or scooter for an electric model and will benefit from a €1,000 discount against it.

  Holders of the Stadspas, which is available to residents of Amsterdam or Weesp who are on a low income and have limited funds, can now switch to cleaner electric personal transport more affordably. Gemeente Amsterdam (Amsterdam Local Authority) has outlined simple steps which will allow residents to benefit from the scheme:

  • Request the discount via the online registration form.
  • After approval, receive a credit on your Stadspas.
  • Hand in your old petrol moped or scooter at one of the shops participating in the promotion.
  • At the same store you can buy a new or second-hand electric moped, scooter or moped with a €1,000 discount.

  The campaign runs until 2027 or until the budget runs out.

  More on participating stores

  The discount on an electric moped or scooter can be used at one of the stores that participate in the campaign; more information here.

  Emission-free zone since 2025

  Amsterdam has had an emission-free zone for mopeds and scooters within built-up areas since 1 January 2025. Mopeds and scooters that are newly registered from 1 January 2025 must be electric to be allowed to drive in the emission-free zone. For older petrol-powered mopeds or scooters from before 1 January 2025, transitional rules apply. From 2030, only electric vehicles will be permitted. More information can be found here.

• Predicted growth for UK cycling market in 2025 following decline

  17:52 Comments Off on Predicted growth for UK cycling market in 2025 following decline

  Source: Bicycle Association

  The UK cycling trade’s association, the Bicycle Association (BA), has forecast a return to growth in the cycling market in 2025, following a slower rate of decline in 2024.

  At its annual members conference in Birmingham, England, on March 12, BA members received insights on how the market performed last year, with sales declining by 2% compared to 2023, continuing the post-COVID downturn that began in the latter half of 2021. However, a positive sign emerged as the annual rate of decline eased in 2024, with market performance stabilizing in the second half of the year after a difficult start.

  Key findings from the Bicycle Association market report

  John Worthington, from the BA’s data and insights team, presented key findings from the organization’s latest 60-page market analysis report:

  • Mechanical Bicycle Sales: Volumes fell by 4%, bringing the total estimated market volume down to approximately 1.45 million units in 2024, marking the lowest level in the 21st century.
  • E-Bike Market: Despite a 5% decline in sales, largely due to heavy discounting, e-bike volumes reached an estimated 146,000 units, accounting for 9% of total bike sales.
  • Children’s Cycling Trends: While cycling participation among children aged 5-16 stabilized at 21% (according to Sport England), it remains 6 percentage points lower than in 2018-2019. Sales of children’s bikes continued to decline, now roughly one-third lower than pre-COVID levels.
  • Performance of Enthusiast Bicycles: Higher-end road and mountain bike sales showed year-over-year growth despite the overall market downturn.
  • Bike Journeys vs. Bike Sharing: While overall bike journeys dropped below 2019 levels, bike-sharing services saw strong performance.
  • PAC and Service Market Performance: Parts, accessories, and clothing (PAC) sales declined by 2% in volume but increased by 3% in value, particularly driven by strong sales in turbo trainers and indoor cycling equipment. Services, including bicycle maintenance and repair, were the strongest-performing segment, with volume and value rising by 7% and 5%, respectively.

  UK market outlook for 2025

  Despite ongoing macroeconomic challenges, the BA anticipates a gradual market recovery in 2025. Forecasts predict a 2% growth in bike sales, a 3% increase in PAC sales, and a 3% rise in services. However, e-bike sales are expected to decline further by 1%.

  Simon Irons, BA’s Data & Insights Director, remarked, “This report is a challenging read. The post-Covid overstocking, and associated heavy discounting levels in the market, persist and our industry still has a real challenge to restore margins and increase value. The continued decline in kids’ cycling participation and kids’ bike sales is particularly concerning, given these are our cyclists of the future.”

  BA’s expansion and market data initiatives

  The BA’s Market Data Annual Report draws from various sources, including its Market Data Service, which tracks approximately 70% of UK cycling retailers by volume. The full report is freely available to Market Data subscribers, with a summary provided to all BA members.

  Additionally, the BA has secured European Commission grant funding to expand its Market Data Service into Germany in collaboration with the German cycling trade association. The funding will also support the development of new software tools to benefit BA members and subscribers.

  The full report can be purchased here.

• Survey investigates factors influencing speed pedelec usage in urban mobility

  16:57 Comments Off on Survey investigates factors influencing speed pedelec usage in urban mobility

  Source: Fietsberaad

  Speed pedelecs are emerging as a viable and sustainable alternative to traditional automobiles. However, the factors influencing their adoption and use remain largely unexplored.

  This presents a challenge for policymakers aiming to develop effective strategies in promoting this transportation model.

  Research initiative by UHasselt

  To address this issue, Emiel Cosemans, a student of Mobility Sciences at UHasselt, is conducting a study as part of his bachelor thesis. His research focuses on identifying key factors that influence speed pedelec usage in Belgian and Dutch Limburg.

  Importance of public participation

  The study welcomes input from both speed pedelec users and non-users, as their perspectives provide valuable insights into the broader mobility landscape. By participating in this survey, individuals can contribute to a deeper understanding of the opportunities and challenges associated with speed pedelec adoption.

  How to participate

  The survey, which takes approximately 15 minutes to complete, seeks to gather data that will help policymakers make informed decisions regarding the integration of speed pedelecs into urban transportation networks. Participants’ contributions will play a crucial role in shaping future mobility policies and infrastructure improvements.

  For those interested in taking part, the survey is available online. By sharing their experiences and views, participants can support efforts to enhance sustainable mobility solutions.

• How COVID-19 changed urban mobility for the better

  16:42 Comments Off on How COVID-19 changed urban mobility for the better

  Source: Tomorrow.City

  As we mark five years since the COVID-19 outbreak, it’s important to reflect on how the pandemic significantly reshaped urban mobility. Beyond the immediate devastation – millions of lives lost, economies disrupted, and healthcare systems overwhelmed – the pandemic also sparked a wave of transformation and reassessment.

  Human behavior adapted as people navigated new ways of living, working, and interacting. Cities were reimagined with a greater focus on public health and liveability. The pandemic’s challenges led to innovation, and a “new normal” emerged. Many initiatives and projects that began during the pandemic continue to influence urban environments today.

  Urban mobility startup investment surge

  A major shift that occurred after the pandemic’s onset was the acceleration of investment in urban mobility startups. Recognising the need for innovative transportation solutions, organizations like EIT Urban Mobility introduced specialised Accelerator Programmes to support startups focused on sustainable and impactful solutions. One such initiative, the EIT Urban Mobility Accelerator Programme: Special COVID-19 Edition, launched in July 2020, supported 23 European startups, four of which remain part of the EIT Urban Mobility portfolio:

  • Elonroad: Focused on developing smart charging highway systems for electric vehicles, Elonroad received funding from the French government as part of the France 2030 initiative to electrify a highway near Paris.
  • Meep: A mobility-as-a-service (MaaS) platform that integrates various transport options, Meep has partnered with multiple transport operators and public authorities to centralize services and promote sustainability.
  • Nemi Mobility Solutions: This startup enhances public transport efficiency and accessibility in peri-urban and rural areas with AI-driven demand-responsive transport. It celebrated its fifth anniversary in early 2025, signing its 11th transport-on-demand service.
  • Urban Radar: Specialising in data-driven insights for optimizing urban logistics and transportation planning, Urban Radar piloted its solution in Barcelona less than a year after receiving investment.

  Investment trends in urban mobility

  The success of these startups represents only a small portion of the financial influx into the urban mobility sector. According to Via ID’s State of Urban Mobility Startups report, investment in the sector more than doubled from 2020 to 2021 in Europe, surpassing $14B. While investments have declined in recent years as the immediate effects of the pandemic faded, funding levels remain higher than pre-pandemic levels. Startups founded during the pandemic’s investment boom continue to innovate and tackle urban challenges today.

  FURNISH: A temporary project with lasting impact

  During the pandemic, cities had to rethink public spaces to accommodate social distancing and new mobility patterns. One such initiative was FURNISH, an EIT Urban Mobility-funded project aimed at temporarily redesigning urban spaces for safer and more functional public use. Over three editions, the project developed 12 different prototypes of modular urban furniture, which were deployable at low cost and flexible enough for adaptation. These prototypes were open-source, allowing cities globally to reuse and redevelop them. The insights gained from FURNISH continue to influence urban design worldwide.

  Bridging the knowledge gap between urban mobility and public health

  The pandemic also highlighted a knowledge gap in the intersection of urban mobility and public health. In response, EIT Urban Mobility and the Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal) launched an educational initiative to equip professionals with the skills necessary to integrate public health perspectives into urban design. The Introduction to Urban Health course, offered to PhD candidates in the EIT Urban Mobility Doctoral Training Network, explores how urban environments influence health and well-being. The course includes lectures, case studies, and hands-on projects to help participants apply their knowledge to real-world challenges.

  In addition to this, EIT Urban Mobility is launching the Urban Mobility and Healthy Ageing: Innovations for a Sustainable Future (UMAIS) Summer School in 2025. Co-led by the University of Lisbon and the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, this program will address the intersection of ageing, mobility, and innovation.

  These educational programs reflect the growing recognition of health’s role in urban mobility planning, and aim to bridge the knowledge gap identified during the early days of COVID-19. By fostering interdisciplinary solutions, these initiatives contribute to the development of healthier cities that integrate wellness into their designs and strategies.

• Karim Slaoui Fund addresses needs of those with impaired mobility

  16:26 Comments Off on Karim Slaoui Fund addresses needs of those with impaired mobility

  Source: Fonds Karim Slaoui

  A fund created in memory of the co-founder of the Cowboy e-bike brand aims to find innovative, elegant and low-cost solutions for those in a wheelchair.

  Karim Slaoui was a tech optimist, known for his boundless energy and big smile. As a professional, he was a mad scientist, capable of building the coolest electric bikes from scratch as a hardware entrepreneur at his company Cowboy. He died in 2023 much too young of synovial sarcoma.

  In 2023, a metastasis paralyzed him from the chest down. Despite trying numerous clinical trials across three countries and five hospitals, he passed away in September 2023. During this journey, Karim and his wife experienced the challenges of using a wheelchair in all aspects of their daily life, even in hospital surroundings.

  Karim believed that everyone should be able to live independently and saw a clear lack of innovation for affordable, low-tech products for wheelchair users – only high-end, high-cost solutions which are out of the financial reach for most people. This prompted Karim to ask his wife, Aurore, to create a fund in his memory. The goal was to support entrepreneurs in developing prototypes to help people in similar situations maintain their independence.​

  Donations to the fund can be made here.

• Ellio earns podium place at the Fiets Awards 2025

  15:43 Comments Off on Ellio earns podium place at the Fiets Awards 2025

  Source: Ellio

  LEVA-EU member Ellio’s IntuEdrive drive system achieved great recognition at a major Dutch bicycle industry event, obtaining a podium place.

  Ellio’s IntuEdrive drive system went up against various entries from bicycle manufacturers and importers to be shortlisted for the prestigious Bicycle Innovation Award in the RAI Fiets Awards 2025, with its independent jury judging entries on design, user-friendliness and cycling characteristics.

  Its podium place finish marks a great 2025 milestone for the brand in providing outstanding technology for e-bike commuting.

  

• Segway unveils Ninebot Max G3: A high-tech, high-speed commuter scooter

  13:08 Comments Off on Segway unveils Ninebot Max G3: A high-tech, high-speed commuter scooter

  Source: Electrek

  Segway has officially announced the launch of its latest electric scooter, the Ninebot Max G3, bringing significant upgrades in speed, technology, and performance.

  As part of Segway’s well-regarded Max series, the G3 aims to enhance the urban commuting experience with advanced features and improved ride stability.

  Enhanced speed and performance

  The Ninebot Max G3 boasts a top speed of 28 mph (45 km/h), a notable increase from the previous Max G2’s 22 mph (35 km/h) limit. This boost in speed is powered by a 2,000-watt motor, which allows the scooter to accelerate from 0 to 15 mph (25 km/h) in just 2.4 seconds. With an impressive range of 50 miles (80 km) per charge, Segway’s proprietary efficiency system, SegRange, optimizes battery usage for extended travel. The 597 Wh battery can be fully recharged in 3.5 hours, with an optional fast charger reducing the charge time to 2.5 hours.

  Stability and safety features

  Given the increased speed, Segway has integrated advanced stability and safety measures into the Max G3. The scooter features dual hydraulic suspension for improved shock absorption and ride smoothness. Additionally, the new SegRide stability enhancement system ensures a controlled and balanced ride, particularly at higher speeds.

  Braking and traction have also been upgraded, with Segway Dynamic Traction Control improving grip on various surfaces. The Max G3 is equipped with dual-piston disc brakes on both the front and rear wheels, supplemented by an anti-lock braking system (ABS) for safer, more controlled stops. While ABS is commonly seen in motorcycles and high-end e-bikes, its inclusion in an electric scooter marks a significant advancement in safety technology.

  Smart technology integration

  Segway has incorporated a suite of smart features into the Ninebot Max G3 to enhance user convenience. A new 2.4-inch TFT smart display provides turn-by-turn navigation, real-time ride statistics, and notifications for incoming calls. The scooter also includes AirLock autonomous unlocking, enabling users to lock and unlock the vehicle via their smartphone without requiring a physical key. Additionally, Apple Find My compatibility allows users to track their scooter in case of theft or misplacement.

  Advanced lighting system

  Segway has taken lighting to a new level with the Ninebot Max G3. The scooter features a 360-degree lighting system, including an automatic headlight that is three times brighter than previous models. Underglow lighting and synchronized turn signals further enhance visibility and safety while adding a stylish, modern aesthetic.

  An exciting 2025 for Segway and its Max series

  With the Ninebot Max G3, Segway continues to push the boundaries of electric scooter technology. Offering increased speed, cutting-edge safety features, and smart connectivity, the G3 positions itself as a top contender for urban commuters seeking a high-performance and technologically advanced ride. As pre-orders open, the latest addition to the Max series is set to redefine the standards for electric scooters in 2025.

  

• Skarper click-on e-bike system now available at UK bike retailers

  12:55 Comments Off on Skarper click-on e-bike system now available at UK bike retailers

  Source: Cycling Electric

  LEVA-EU member Skarper, a British start-up recognised for its innovative click-on e-bike system, is expanding its retail footprint across the UK. The company, which has gained attention with support from six-time Olympic champion Sir Chris Hoy and a partnership with Red Bull Racing’s Advanced Technologies team, is now available at select premium bike shops.

  This expansion makes Skarper’s e-bike conversion system more accessible to cyclists looking for a flexible, easy-to-use solution.

  Skarper click-on e-bike system: A new way to convert your bike

  Skarper’s click-on system quickly transforms a standard bike into a high-performance e-bike using its patented DiskDrive technology. Unlike traditional conversion kits, the Skarper system requires no complex wiring or permanent alterations to the bike. Riders can seamlessly switch between manual and electric modes, providing assistance on steep climbs and long rides while maintaining the feel of their regular bike.

  Neil Watts, owner of Fit to Ride in Poole, expressed confidence in the product, saying, “I only stock products that I truly believe in, and Skarper stood out as a smart solution for cyclists who want the benefits of an e-bike without committing to a whole new setup.” He emphasised the convenience and performance of the system, especially for cyclists who want assistance on certain rides but prefer to keep their regular bikes.

  Expanding availability: A network of stockists

  Skarper is now available at several well-known retailers, including Sigma Sports, Lifecycle UK, Billy Bilsland Cycles, Fit to Ride, Pedal Power, and Gary Harris Cycles. These retailers will offer demo units for customers to try before purchasing, along with professional installation and servicing. The first deliveries have already started, with more anticipated in March.

  Ean Brown, Co-founder and CEO of Skarper, commented, “By carefully selecting premium retailers known for their expertise and service, we’re building a network that will ensure that any cyclist in the UK will be within an hour of a Skarper stockist.”

  Advanced technology and proven performance

  Skarper’s development has been enhanced through collaboration with Red Bull Racing’s Advanced Technologies, refining its design into a compact yet powerful system. The DiskDrive motor integrates with a bike’s rear disc brake, providing 45Nm of torque—similar to many e-bike hub motors. The system is powered by a 240Wh battery, offering a range of up to 60km, depending on conditions.

  A review of the Skarper system at Eurobike 2024 and in a full test by Cycling Electric found the conversion kit to provide a smooth and responsive ride, particularly on climbs. Features like the quick-release mechanism and the ability to carry the unit in a dedicated backpack were also highlighted as key advantages.

  Skarper’s growth and future plans

  With nearly £13 million in funding, Skarper is focused on meeting the growing demand for its clip-on e-bike technology. The retail expansion is part of the company’s broader strategy to offer a more accessible, flexible, and environmentally friendly way to cycle, both in the UK and internationally.