Tag Archive: E-Bikes

  1. Company leasing providers have almost quintupled their sales since 2019

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    Company bike leasing has emerged as a significant growth driver for the bicycle sector, according to a study by Deloitte’s Sport Business Group in partnership with the industry association Zukunft Fahrrad. From 2019 to 2023, the total revenue of company bike leasing providers surged from 0.7 billion to 3.2 billion euros, nearly quintupling. This reflects an average annual growth rate of 46 percent.

    Source: RadMarkt

    The study, “The German Company Bike Leasing Market,” surveyed the largest providers using a standardized questionnaire. These companies represent approximately three-quarters of the market. The collected data was then extrapolated to estimate the overall market size based on dealer information.

    The survey revealed that the fleet size of bicycles and e-bikes leased through employers has grown by an average of 45 percent annually since 2019, expanding from 400,000 bikes in 2019 to 1.9 million by the end of 2023. This marks nearly a fivefold increase over five years, with 23,000 bikes newly leased in 2019 and 790,000 in 2023.

    Leasing strengthens brick-and-mortar retail

    Kim Lachmann, Director and bicycle market expert at Deloitte stated “Company bike leasing has now become one of the most relevant market drivers in the bicycle market – especially in the past year, which has been challenging for the industry. High bicycle stocks and a simultaneous slight decline in customer demand due to inflation posed problems for many market participants. However, we continued to see stable growth in company bike leasing – both in terms of volume and price. It is also clear that it is strengthening brick-and-mortar retail in particular. Almost 90 percent of users buy their bikes there.”

    Leased bikes tend to be higher-priced, with about 80 percent being e-bikes and an average price of 3,500 euros in 2023—almost 1,700 euros more than the average price of bikes purchased in the overall market. According to the study’s authors, this price difference is a significant factor in the observed strong sales growth in the bicycle market.

    The study also found that around 37 percent of employees in Germany now have access to company bike leasing. The number of employees eligible for company bike leasing contracts through their employers grew from 5.3 million in 2019 to 16.8 million in 2023.

    Untapped potential

    “The company bike leasing sector has grown immensely in recent years, but the potential is far from being exhausted. On average, around 90 percent of employees at participating employers are not yet leasing. In addition, the number of participating companies is increasing continuously – by an average of 46 percent annually since 2019. Company bike leasing is perceived by employees as an attractive offer,” says Kim Lachmann.

    In 2023, around 204,000 employers offered their employees the opportunity to lease company bikes, up from around 45,000 in 2019.

    Wasilis von Rauch, Managing Director of Zukunft Fahrrad, emphasized the market’s resilience, describing company bike leasing as a billion-dollar market that benefits both employees and companies through health and climate protection advantages. He noted that approximately two-thirds of commuters have a journey suitable for bicycles or e-bikes, often faster and more enjoyable than other modes of transport. Rauch urged policymakers to support this trend by creating conducive framework conditions.

  2. E-bike ownership in Germany reaches record high

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    Source: SAZ Bike

    The energy supplier Eon has conducted a survey on the rising popularity of e-bikes. According to their findings, nearly a quarter of the population now owns an e-bike, with a notable increase among younger individuals.

    “Electric bike popularity is hitting new heights. Currently, one in four people in Germany owns an electric bike, the highest since our first survey in 2020,” states Jens Michael Peters, Managing Director of Energy Solutions at Eon Energie Deutschland.

    The survey reveals that 24.7 percent of Germans own an electric bicycle, up from 23.3 percent in 2023 and 15.2 percent in 2020. E-bike ownership has grown significantly among 18- to 29-year-olds, rising from 13.8 percent in 2023 to 17.5 percent. The highest ownership rates are among people aged 50 to 64 (27.4 percent) and those over 65 (27.7 percent).

    Regional differences

    When looking at the federal states, Lower Saxony leads with 32.6 percent of residents owning an e-bike, followed by Baden-Württemberg (27.4 percent), Bavaria (26.4 percent), Schleswig-Holstein (26.2 percent), and North Rhine-Westphalia (26 percent). Emsland and Bentheim counties top the list nationwide, with 47.3 percent ownership each, followed by Leer (42.6 percent), Wittmund (41.8 percent), and Aurich (41 percent). Eon provides a detailed visualization of these regional results.

    Sustainabilities role in purchasing and charging

    Around 40.7 percent of e-bike owners use green electricity for charging, and 28.8 percent of potential buyers are considering switching to a green electricity tariff. Additionally, 21.5 percent of e-bike owners chose their bikes for sustainability reasons, like reduced emissions compared to cars. Among e-bike models, city e-bikes are the most popular (37.3 percent), followed by trekking e-bikes (26.4 percent) and e-mountain bikes (15.9 percent).

    A popular means of transport for holidays and commuting

    E-bikes are also popular for holidays and commuting. In the past year, 12.5 percent of Germans used an e-bike while on holiday, with nine percent using their own and 3.5 percent renting locally. Looking ahead, 36.3 percent are considering using an e-bike on their next holiday, especially among 18- to 29-year-olds (46.1 percent). Additionally, 25 percent of Germans are contemplating a multi-day e-bike trip.

    For commuting, 6.8 percent of employed individuals regularly use e-bikes, and 34.5 percent are interested in leasing a company bike to save on purchase costs. Already, 13.2 percent of employed 18- to 29-year-olds use an employer-provided e-bike option.

  3. Klever e-bikes widely awarded by Fietstest

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    The independent panel of bike testers continues to praise Klever models across the range, with recent awards for Best Buy and Best in Test

    Klever Mobility, the Dutch maker of powerful and reliable e-bikes, now boasts nine models on the Fietstest awards board, with the most recent accolades being Best Buy for the Y Muse 45, and Best in Test for the X Speed Pinion Alpha. Fiestest reviews are compiled from a panel of 1,900 independent reviewers, with the aim of offering consumers a truly impartial picture of product performance, value and quality. Klever’s repeated appearance in the top ranks is a testament to their pillars of power, safety, reliability and sustainability.

    Top rated bikes include the Y Muse, with a reviewer describing it as a “fantastic bike with rear wheel motor”, saying it “gets up to speed quickly and easily, stable at 45 km/h”. Top rated features included its powerful support, clear display, pleasant to use display, powerful engine and silent motor.

    On the X Speed Pinion Alpha, the tester said: “Very cool bike. Goes very fast and smoothly. Feels solid. Great if you are looking for a pedelec”. Highlights across the board for this model were its pleasant to use display, silent motor, that it drives great and has a strong frame.

    About Klever Mobility:

    Klever Mobility supplies REAL45 Power E-bikes.

    Our mission: everyone out of the car and on the speed pedelec to work. Clean mobility, great outdoors, no traffic jams or parking hassles.

    We’re contributing to that by making powerful Speed ​​Pedelecs that guarantee a wonderful and safe riding experience. This is how we make commuting the best time of the day!

    We really believe that Speed ​​Pedelecs will play an important role in modern sustainable mobility and with our Klever teams in the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, Switzerland and Taiwan we work hard on that every day!

    We design our bikes from the scratch and make sure all parts of the system integrate with each other to create the most powerful, safe and reliable Speed Pedelecs around.

    As a daughter company of Kymco, we have the access to the know-how and 50 years of experience in the e-scooters to make sure we can succeed in this mission.

    Our speed pedelecs are available from our carefully selected dealers in the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany and Switzerland. Check our website for your nearest dealer. Or request a test drive directly from us: https://klever-mobility.com/

  4. MAHLE SmartBike Systems launches its new system X30

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    MAHLE SmartBike Systems, the eBike company of automotive component supplier MAHLE, has launched its new X30 drive system for eBikes.

    The new MAHLE X30 consists of motor, battery, HMI (human machine Interface) and other components and extends the X-Series system platform. The highlight is the new motor. This is a robust and functional unit that maintains the light, sport, and intelligent DNA characteristic of all MAHLE products, offering both balanced and versatile assistance. This new hub motor is designed to provide great performance on any terrain, with a 45 Nm torque (compared to a mid-drive motor) and weighs just 1.9kg. The MAHLE X30 has therefore set a new standard for hub motors and has once again revolutionized the market for lightweight eBike systems. Its highly advanced technology makes it suitable for all riders, whether on the road, in the city or on tracks. It is even suitable for kids eBikes. The new MAHLE X30 is also compatible with all the components, accessories, and digital environment of the MAHLE X20 system, which means that the complete system can be equipped with Pulsar ONE, eShifters, HMI, iX2 or iX3 batteries and External Battery eX1 (e185).

    As a leading supplier of lightweight eBike solutions with many years of development experience, MAHLE SmartBike Systems is committed to development and innovation. With MAHLE X30, the company has launched a versatile, robust, functional and technologically advanced system that will markedly change the world of lightweight eBike systems. MAHLE X30 System combines lightweight innovation with robust versatility, providing individual support for diverse riding conditions and significantly improving the riding experience.

    New motor, same ecosystem:

    MAHLE X30 System can be integrated perfectly with the X20 components and existing digital ecosystems, guaranteeing uncompromising compatibility. This compatibility enables seamless upgrades and access to advanced features,
    maintaining consistent performance across the X Series.

    The design of this rear hub motor allows for perfect system synergy as a result of lower energy losses, increasing energy efficiency by 15% compared with a middrive motor, allowing the user’s activity to be extended in an environmentally friendly way up to a distance of almost 190 km.

    In addition, the versatility provided by the X Series platform allows bicycle brands to build eBikes with a pedal assist sensor or with a cadence and torque sensor, creating different riding experiences.

    One of the innovations of this system is that the installation of the torque sensor allows for a much more precise watt analysis, enabling the motor to respond to the rider’s needs at all times. Also, our technology together with AI and machine learning means that the eBike learns from the rider’s behavior and adapts to both riders and their environment.

    The MAHLE X30 System is customized according to the DNA of the bike brand that implements it on its models, as well as by discipline and, customer philosophy. The motor mapping is defined together with the manufacturer concerned and implemented on the eBikes at the end of the production line. This leads into a special bike and riding experience on each different brand, behaving
    differently even when using the same system.

    The launch of the new MAHLE X30 System is associated with renown partners in the bike industry such as Bianchi in road, Husqvarna in kids and Stevens in urban, among others.

    For more information:

    Website MAHLE X30: https://mahle-smartbike.com/X30
    MAHLE SmartBike Systems website: https://mahle-smartbike.com/

  5. Over half of Dutch people ride an e-bike, survey shows

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    Source: Nieuwsfiets

    Recent study reveals that 54% of Dutch people ride an electric bicycle

    Various insights into the behaviour and attitudes of Dutch cyclists are available in the results of research commissioned by Netherlands-based e-bike refurbishers Upway.

    The online survey, conducted by research agency iVOX between May 8 and May 17, 2024, gathered answers to a range of questions from 2,000 Dutch people on a variety of cycling-related topics. A number of insights can be gleaned from the results:

    Age: 61% of people over the age of 55 choose an e-bike, while for those under 35 the figure is 51%.

    Ownership and frequency: 54% of Dutch people currently use an e-bike, with 39% doing so at least weekly.

    Stated preferences for e-bikes: 32% of respondents cite ease of use; 20% answered ‘Because it gets me to my destination faster’; 25% answered ‘because I can cover greater distances with it’.

    Cargo bike usage: Of those surveyed, 7% rode an electric cargo bike, and 4% rode a non-electric version. Riders of electric cargo bikes cited two notable reasons for their use: 22% said ‘Because it is economically more advantageous than a car’, while 19% said ‘Because it is so easy to use’.

    Cycling infrastructure: Overall, the respondents are generally positive towards the cycling-friendliness and layout of roads in their area, with 77% reporting a positive opinion, though cargo bike users are a little more critical with 61% having a positive opinion.

    Feelings of safety: 94% of e-bike riders reported feeling safer than average in traffic, while 57% of these said they feel safer on an electric bike than on a traditional bike. In contrast, 80% of traditional-cycle riders felt safest on a non-electric bike.

    Risk-taking behaviour: Only 10% of Dutch people say they always wear a helmet when cycling. 36% of e-bike riders ignore a red light – more often than non-electric bike riders. Dangerous situations involving electric bicycle users involve excessive speed (31%), inattention (15%) or lack of control (13%), while tradtional bike riders sometimes create dangerous situations by violating traffic rules (21%), inattention (28%) or cycling where it is not allowed (11%).

  6. Coalition protests against proposed e-bike regulations in New Jersey

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    Source: NJ Spotlight News

    The new bill proposed registration and insurance for low-speed electric bikes

    Representatives from over 40 organisations gathered to protest a bill (S-2292) that would impose strict regulation on e-bikes in New Jersey. The bill, sponsored by Senate President Nick Scutari (D-Union) and Sen. Vin Gopal (D-Monmouth), mandates that low-speed electric bikes and scooters be registered with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission. It also bans the use of any unregistered e-bikes and scooters and requires owners to have insurance coverage.

    “Adding an extra layer of cost to insure these level 1 e-bikes would be a burden and would exclude not just e-bike delivery workers but anyone who cannot afford a car,” said Karin Vernoppan of Bike JC.

    The coalition, comprising bike and pedestrian advocates, clean-energy groups, and members of the insurance industry, sent a letter to Scutari and Gopal criticizing the proposed legislation for its ineffectiveness and its inconsistency with the state’s net-zero emissions goal. Gopal mentioned that he expects the bill to be amended, while Scutari offered no comment.

    The coalition advocates for a Vision Zero policy enacted across the state instead. “Jersey City has a great Vision Zero policy. They eliminated fatal crashes on Jersey City streets recently. And neighbouring Hoboken has gone seven years without a fatal crash,” said Corey Hannigan, active transportation program manager at the  Tri-State Transportation Campaign. “And because of that success, Secretary Pete Buttigieg called out Hoboken on a national level and said it’s an example. And every county in New Jersey is working on a Zero Vision policy right now, but they don’t have jurisdiction over state roads where a plurality of fatal crashes happen in New Jersey.”

  7. Knowledge Institute for Mobility research predicts continued rise for e-bike sales

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    The share of e-bike kilometers in the total number of bicycle kilometers will continue to increase in the coming years, reaching 45 percent in 2028. The total number of bicycle kilometers is expected to increase by 13 percent between 2022 and 2028. This is evident from scientific research by the Knowledge Institute for Mobility Policy (KiM).

    Source: Fietsberaad CROW

    To predict the share of e-bike kilometers, KiM researchers used data from the Research on Travel in the Netherlands (OViN) from 2013-2017 and Onderweg in Nederland (ODiN) from 2018-2022. The analysis shows a clear growth in the use of e-bikes in the coming years: from 36 percent of the number of bicycle kilometers in 2022 to 45 percent in 2028. The corona pandemic appears to have accelerated the growth in the share of e-bike kilometers. The total cycling distance will grow by 13 percent between 2022 and 2028 and this is mainly a result of an increase in the number of e-bike kilometers – the number of cycling kilometers on a regular bicycle will even decrease by 4 percent during that period.

    The differences between the age groups are large. In 2028, the share of e-bikes among young people aged 12-17 years will be 30 percent, and among elderly people aged 70 and older it will be 75 percent. In general, the share of e-bikes increases with age. Only the group of 12-17 year olds is slightly higher than the groups of 18-24 years and 25-29 years.


    Figure: Trend share of e-bike kilometers in total number of bicycle kilometers for different ages. The black dots represent the data, the black lines the growth trend taking into account Covid-19 and delivery delays and the gray lines the growth trend without taking those influences into account. (Source: Huang et al. (2024) )

    There is also a clear gender difference in e-bike use. In general, men cycle more kilometers by bicycle, but women travel more e-bike kilometers and e-bike rides than men. Women have a higher share of e-bike kilometers in all age groups. Above the age of thirty, the difference will decrease slightly in the coming years. The difference is increasing among younger cyclists, except in the group of 18-24, where more e-bike kilometers are expected among men in the coming years.

    In a second study, KiM investigated the potential of the e-bike to reduce and replace car use based on data from the Mobility Panel Netherlands and ODiN. The results predict a moderate shift in the mobility pattern. The increased e-bike kilometers seem to mainly replace bicycle kilometers. But above 7 kilometers this shift is less noticeable and the e-bike may actually replace the car. E-bike rides may also replace public transport rides and rides as a car passenger, but this could not be determined based on the available data.The results of the research were published in April in the scientific journal.

    Journal of Cycling and Micromobility Research .

  8. Ellio Max receives Best Buy award from Fietstest

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    The Belgian e-bike brand has attained a top honour from the independent bicycle test platform

    At the end of April Ellio submitted its Ellio Max to the ADR Bicycle Test 2024 for a thorough assessment. The newest edition of the Ellio Speed ​​Pedelec family members was tested and inspected by a panel of a total of 216 members. Following deliberations, the panel awarded the Ellio Max as ‘Best Buy’ in the Speed ​​Pedelecs category.

    Reviewer Luc said, “Very pleasant spedelec, powerful support, excellent riding comfort, this bike has everything you could wish for, highly recommended”.

    To avoid a one-sided, positive outcome in reviewing, Fietstest.nl uses more than 1900 independent and experienced panel members to produce a reliable result. This is why many bicycle brands are drawn to participate in its bicycle test and vie for its quality mark.

    The Ellio Max is a versatile and powerful e-bike, featuring 27.5 inch wheels, a top speed of 45 km/h, a range of 50-100 km and a belt drive, it also features Ellio two-wheel drive with automatic shifting system.

    About Ellio

    Ellio E-bikes is building the mobility of tomorrow by developing the most accessible speed pedelecs and drive technology on the market. Just like the car, Ellio fits perfectly into the daily lives of its users.

    Ellio E-bikes have all-wheel drive (two-wheel drive), drive fully automatically and are 100% Belgian made.

  9. Vyber scoops industry awards for multiple e-bikes

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    The Dutch e-bike brand was delighted to receive multiple honours from Kieskeurig.nl E-bike Duurtest and AD Fietstest

    Source: NieuwsFiets.nu

    Vyber E-bikes have once again demonstrated their excellence in the national bicycle tests, earning high praise and recognition. The Vyber Ride E1 Pro Special Edition and the Vyber Ride E1 Pro Belt have excelled in the Kieskeurig.nl E-bike Endurance Test, securing the ‘Good in test 2024’ designation. Additionally, the Vyber Ride E1 Pro Special Edition received the same accolade from the ADR Bicycle Test results announced over the weekend.

    The Vyber Ride E1 Pro Special Edition is crafted for both everyday use and recreational rides. Three testers conducted extensive evaluations of this e-bike to provide prospective buyers with a comprehensive overview of its features and performance.

    Usability

    The e-bike scored exceptionally well in terms of user-friendliness. One tester, Ada, highlighted the convenience of charging the battery without needing to remove it. Hella appreciated the clear and easy-to-use control panel, which is functional even in adverse weather conditions. Ria noted that the bike’s light and agile build contributes to a pleasant riding experience.

    Cycling Comfort

    The Ride E1 Pro Special Edition impressed testers with its cycling comfort. Ada praised the suspension system in the saddle and front frame, which ensures a smooth ride over rough surfaces. Hella was enthusiastic about the ergonomic handles and the suspension fork, while Ria commended the comfortable seating position for both city and long-distance rides.

    Performance

    The performance of the Vyber e-bike also garnered positive feedback. Ada was impressed by the silent motor, and Hella noted the excellent battery life, mentioning that the bike rides well even without motor support. Ria appreciated the quiet motor and reliable support.

    Design and Finishing

    The design and finishing of the e-bike were highly regarded by the testers. Ada described the bike as robust, solid, and charming. Hella highlighted its high-quality finish, ergonomic handles, and luxurious appearance.

    The Vyber Ride E1 Pro Belt was also reviewed positively by the test panel. Testers found it to be a very comfortable bike, with features like a suspension seat post, ergonomic handlebars, and good traction. The integrated bell, sturdy rear stand, and concealed cables contribute to its overall practical design. The bike’s unique pearl gray color, despite its understated look, is easy to maintain and hides dirt well.

    With these new awards, Vyber E-bikes have once again proven their superior quality and performance, making them a standout choice for both daily commuters and recreational cyclists.

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