The fifth annual GfK E-Bike Monitor report has been published, based on the feedback of 2,000 respondents from the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, France, and Italy.
According to the report, the main reasons for buying an e-bike are for recreational use and commuting. Although the overall majority of respondents prefer to buy an e-bike at a brick-and-mortar store, this trend shifts dramatically when looking at the younger 18-24 age bracket, where 60% have bought an e-bike online.
Within this demographic, the survey indicates that growing numbers are choosing to make the journeys to and from school or college by e-bike, which increases the overall average use per week. No less than 45% of e-bike purchasers indicate that they use the e-bike at least once a day.
The GfK report also explored what aspects e-bike buyers considered most important in making their decision to purchase. The 18-24 demographic focused mainly on the e-bike’s top speed, and technical features such as GPS tracking and smart connectivity, as well as battery life. For the average e-bike purchaser, battery performance is of even greater importance, as well as factors such as the motor’s range and location.
Physical stores still dominate, with 75% of respondents preferring those that carry several brands, and over 90% of those visiting a store taking a test drive. However, the share of online sales is growing, thanks in part to the increasing number of purchases by the 18-24 age bracket.
Comments Off on Bafang Electric launches its first Bafang Dealer Day, attracting hundreds of industry professionals
The first Bafang Dealer Day took place on January 16 in Nijkerk, generating a great response and positive feedback. More than 450 dealers took up the LEVA-EU member’s invitation to register for the event and made their way to the distinctive venue Hart van Holland. Here, much discussion surrounding Bafang itself, the dealer direct service, new products, and partner opportunities took place.
Confident presentations and interactive exchange
The day’s presentations were specially designed with dealer-specific information in mind, ranging from an overview of Bafang’s history to technical insight regarding the latest drive systems. Confidently leading the day’s proceedings was moderator Rens Merckelbach. He was joined by members of Bafang’s Benelux branch Vince Weerden, Santosh Mankoe, and Leroy van Heeren, the branch’s Service Manager, Dealer Direct Service Executive, and Customer Service Specialist respectively. Each presented on their specialist subject, taking time to answer any dealers’ questions on the matters at hand.
New products and the BESST Pro Tool
After a refreshment break the event continued, moving into an adjacent hall where dealers were able to view Bafang’s latest technological offerings up-close while receiving tailored advice from knowledgeable staff members.
Alongside the isolated drive systems, batteries, and HMIs on display, a range of test bikes were available for dealers’ use. Supporting Bafang’s own test bikes were branded bikes boasting a range of systems, provided by Jools, Brinckers, BSP, and Dolly Bikes. Based on the faces seen around the specially designed test track, Bafang’s motto, “Engineered to make you smile”, rings true!
The afternoon was then characterized by presentations of the latest products from Bafang by Lennart van Houwelingen, the Sales Manager for Benelux. Following this, Leroy van Heeren returned to deliver a presentation regarding the BESST Pro tool, which is sure to be an exciting prospect for many dealers.
Rens Merckelbach concluded the event with a light-hearted lottery, where Bafang team members presented a selection of gifts to lucky attendees. Concluding with a classic networking session, the event can only be described as an extremely successful and slick launch of Bafang’s Dealer Day. Full of informative content and exciting ideas, the event clearly outlines Bafang’s focus on development in the European market, and is the product of a great team effort by the staff of Bafang Electric Ltd.
Dutch Electric bike brand Trenergy is coming into the new year with a renewed focus on communication for the benefit of its customers and business.
As reported in industry publication, nieuwsfiets.nu, the makers of electric bicycles continue to value communication as a core principle, and have committed to more deeply optimize this area on numerous points. This is especially vital in cooperation with dealers.
AZ Import, creator of Trenergy, has always aimed to provide the best products and service, but knows that there can still be room for improvement. Commercial Assistant Maik Coobs was quoted: “By means of a survey, we asked our dealer network where we could improve ourselves. The points that emerged were improving the quality of our e-bikes and optimizing our communication flows. And we really do have news to communicate. For example, the further development of our bicycles, with the aim of improving the quality and reliability of our e-bikes. A number of employees have traveled to our factory in Portugal to contribute to optimizing the quality of our ebikes,” he explained, “but it’s also about the website. Our portal is not really optimal at the moment, which is why next year we will also focus on updating our website, which will make it easier for dealers to find their way and which will work much more efficiently and faster. Both for the dealers and ourselves.”
Users can expect more visual content and an optimised experience both for dealers and consumers, along with faster performance speed and the most up-to-date information. The one-stop-shop will aim to let dealers take care of stock availability, documentation downloads and even warranty settlement.
Digital communications and print brochures are to be reinvigorated, with professional and diverse photography set to show off the bikes at their very best over the coming year. Trenergy is also ensuring the approach is holistic, followed through both online and offline, with high-quality, locally sourced printing, strategic QR codes for a smooth user experience.
2022 “couldn’t have gone better” for the Zwickau-based manufacturer of retrofit electric bicycle drives
In 2022, Pendix GmbH completed the purchase of its cooperation partner VSC Bike GmbH, a cargo bike box supplier; alongside this, Johnson Electric Group now holds a majority 80% stake in Pendix. With so much activity, it’s unsurprising that the business’ previous record year of 2021 has been overtaken by another record year.
For Pendix Managing Director Thomas Herzog, the year 2022 could not have gone better: “After the two Corona years, it was great to finally meet colleagues from the industry again without restrictions at the trade fairs. And we are also completely satisfied internally. We have ten new colleagues, are now 63 people and are still looking for support. Even if we continue to grow, also in terms of personnel, we want to maintain our team spirit… We want to continue with this motivation in 2023. The cooperation with Johnson Electric gave us wings again.”
The demand for retrofit systems continues to grow, with the brand’s largest market being the Netherlands, representing almost 10% of 2022’s turnover.
Intelligent Speed Adaptation (ISA) would review and adjust the speed of e-bikes and speed-pedelecs in line with local limits
The concept of Intelligent Speed Adaption (ISA) is not new, having been tested in cars for many years – however, thus far it has seen little real-world application. In Amsterdam, T-Mobile and Townmaking are now running experiments for the technology in regard to two-wheelers; routes such as that between Amsterdam and Schiphol are being monitored for potential application.
How could this work? Speed could be reduced through geofencing, that is, if a bicycle enters a certain area or approaches a certain location, the speed is automatically reduced. Such technology is already used in some rental e-scooter fleets such as Voi in the UK, where ‘slow speed zones’ automatically reduce a vehicle’s maximum speed.
In the latest experimentation by T-Mobile, an app was tested that turns the screen of the rider’s smartphone red when entering an area with a speed limit. To prevent too much distraction, other warning methods are also being considered, such as a vibration signal via the handlebar. Technology would eventually be made available to bicycle manufacturers and road authorities to implement their own preventative measures.
A crucial element for the success of the new technology is the speed with which the system reacts and modulates the bicycle to a safer speed. This so-called latency (deceleration factor) can make the difference in whether or not a cyclist brakes in time in an unsafe situation. Thanks to modern 4G and 5G networks, T-Mobile says very low latency connectivity can be achieved in 10 milliseconds or less.
Comments Off on The all-new Solace eRIDE from SCOTT
LEVA-EU member SCOTT introduces its new standard in electric road and gravel bikes: the Solace eRIDE. Quiet, efficient and with a near-zero drag motor, the Solace is a highly versatile do-it-all endurance bike.
The Solace eRIDE is both a Road and Gravel platform, two bikes in one. With a clean do-it-all design, generous tire clearance and carbon frame, the Solace is a lightweight e-bike package with an excellent range. Longer rides are encouraged with room for both 1 water bottle + range extender or 2 water bottles and suitable bike frame bags. Both bikes share the same frame, with the essential differences coming down to spec. They share the heritage of the SCOTT Addict Gravel frameset, a bike that is already a class leader in the lightweight gravel sector.
Frame Construction Despite having an open bottom bracket for placement of the drive unit, we have reached very similar stiffness values compared to the Addict gravel. Having such a compact system like the one that TQ has developed played a key role when building the mounting points where the motor and the battery are assembled in the frame. Compact and minimalistic mountings, help to keep a smooth carbon construction in the frame structure, avoiding bulky or complicated interfaces.
Drive Unit Thanks to the silent TQ motor, the Solace eRIDE enables you to hear the sound of nature without distractions. The bike’s light weight means it can easily be used without any assistance, an added benefit being the motor has almost no drag allowing you to use the battery only when needed for an excellent range. For a road or gravel e-bike platform this is very important. For systems with drag, riding above the legally imposed thresholds can be limiting. No such issue with the TQ system.
Compact Powerful Assistance TQ is a German company founded in 1994 that specializes in electric components across a range of industries including aerospace, medical and infrastructure. With the HPR50, they simply rewrote the rules, delivering an unprecedented weight/torque ratio of 1.8 kg for 50Nm. With a diameter of 8 cm, TQ has innovated by using a harmonic gear system. This allows for a reduction of size, while also increasing the accuracy of the system. This results in a lighter bike and better integration while reducing drag for a more natural pedaling sensation. This technology also allows for the reduction in system noise for a truly natural experience.
Always Connected To maintain a clean cockpit, the TQ system puts the accent on device connectivity and a minimalistic display located in the top tube. At a glance, the LED display provides all the essential info like the battery level in %, the range in Km and the mode. Thanks to an integrated power meter the RPM, and watts are also provided. Additionally, The TQ app offers real benefits and is easy to use. It is easy to connect, customize and control your TQ-powered e-bike with the TQ e-bike app. The bike comes with a suggested SCOTT motor tune, but with the app, you can tune your drive unit to either save battery life or maximize the power output.
2 Batteries – 1 Internal, 1 External In addition to the 360Wh battery integrated into the downtube, all Solace models are prepared to use an additional 160Wh range extender. The Solace’s range extender comes as an accessory and looks like a simple water bottle. Utilizing a SCOTT-specific quick-release system, the range extender is easy to swap in for a bottle cage tool free. Thanks to TQ’s expertise and unique cell efficiency, battery capacity is optimized to the fullest. The e-bike’s system automatically adapts to having two power sources with SMART technology. This means that, when using the range extender, the system will prioritize its drainage before calling on the use of the Solace’s integrated battery. Plus, when the range extender is emptied the transition between power sources is automatic and seamless. You won’t even notice it. The complete system can be charged in one go too. With the range extender in place, just plug the smart charger into its port. As before, the SMART system will prioritize the e-bike’s internal battery charge first, then top up the range extender, so you’ll never be caught short when heading out to ride. The charge time is fast, the main battery can reach 80% in just two hours of charging.
Integrated cables The Syncros Creston IC combo handlebar allows complete internal cable routing for mechanical or electronic cables and disc brakes. With this intelligent construction, it has never been as easy to adjust the position with spacers.
Accessories & Compatibility Fender kits are available for both Solace Road and Gravel from Syncros. The Solace eRIDE is also light-ready and compatible with a range of Syncros products so you can stay visible any hour of the day. Using the smart box in the top tube it is possible to directly connect compatible light systems to the main battery. Solace Road and Gravel are compatible with a dedicated kickstand from Syncros. The Creston cockpit will fit any of the standard Syncros mounts.
Product Range The Solace eRIDE will be available as Road and Gravel options. All models feature a carbon HMX frame. The collection will total 6 models including 1 dedicated Contessa women-specific model. Discover the full collection at Scott-sports.com.
Comments Off on CAKE launches its newest model, the Åik, at CES
LEVA-EU member CAKE unveils its latest utility e-bike within the professional :work series
The Åik by CAKE is the utility choice for the demands of working professionals who rely on two-wheeled transportation for their livelihood or indeed for the demanding lifestyle requirements of individuals. Not to be mistaken as just an e-bike, it is a utility tool that redefines the category with an unsurpassed range and power of up to 224 miles and a gross vehicle weight of 200 kg. Like the Ösa, Åik is designed around a modular aluminium frame so customers can outfit the Åik with the suitable types of racks, bags, trailers, baskets, and passenger seats to suit the job at hand.
By creating a transportation solution that does not require any special license to operate, CAKE has filled a gap in the :work series. The newest member of the :work family blurs the lines between lightweight electric motorcycles and utility e-bikes. For those who typically rely on motorized transportation, it opens up networks of bike lanes and paths that are off-limits to motorcycles and cars. It’s also indisputably easier to find a spot to park a bicycle than it is a motor vehicle.
“With Åik joining the :work series lineup, we’re now offering a complete assortment of electric two-wheeled solutions for any business in need of a transportation solution,” said CAKE founder and CEO Stefan Ytterborn. He continued “Our range is optimized for artisanal needs, from the fastest deliveries in town through to surveillance work in the backcountry.”
In designing this bike, CAKE took its expertise from manufacturing high-performance electric motorcycles and applied it to e-bikes. The result is a robust bike that’s ready for the demands of commercial fleet use and everyday commuting alike.
The key feature of the Åik is its battery, or batteries. One of the 750 Wh batteries can power the bike for up to 74.5 miles, but users can connect as many as three batteries to extend the range to cover more miles than most want to ride in a single day. The batteries can also power electronic devices such as temperature-controlled food boxes, electronic tools, and equipment.
Like the rest of the :work series, the Åik is also available direct to consumers and later this spring a wider assortment of accessories will be available to further suit their lifestyle needs.
The Åik is available for pre-order on ridecake.com and is expected to start shipping in May of this year.
One way or another, all CAKE names derive from the island of Gotland. The Åik comes from the local ancient language “Gutniska” and means ’big and heavy load’ referring to Åik’s hundreds of utility combinations to pull, stow and carry heavy loads.
Comments Off on Aureus Drive further expands its partner network
The LEVA-EU member continues to grow its test drive and service partners, ensuring customers have easy access to service options.
Swiss-based Aureus Drive produces robust 45km/h e-bikes, aiming to provide ecologically sound mobility to all. The manufacturer has recently announced six further test drive and service partners:
Münsigen – sport2go
Biberist – sport2go
Wädenswil – sport2go
Stans – sport2go
Bern Bollwerk
Genf rive gauche
By densifying its partner network, Aureus Drive provides nearby servicing options for a larger number of customers, allowing any warranty work or service requirements to be met more easily. The brand’s full service network can be found, here.
Comments Off on Bafang offers the chance to win any e-bike featuring their system
In its final Giveaway of 2022, LEVA-EU member Bafang is offering up to 3000 EUR towards a powered-by-Bafang e-bike model.
The ‘Bafang Giveaway Trail | Stage 3’ closes the popular competition series that has run through 2022. Details from the Giveaway landing page can be seen below.
“The power is in your hands – our grand prize winner can claim a Bafang-powered e-bike worth up to €3000!
“We want to see your views from the trail, the open road, the city streets! What makes you smile when you’re out and about on two wheels? Submit your very best photo or video in the theme and approved entries will head to a public vote to determine the winner.
“Entry is easy, submit a file, link to your video via the form, or enter by publicly posting your media on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter with the hashtag #BafangGiveawayTrailStage3
You’ll have until Janurary 6, 2023 to enter your media, and we can’t wait to share in your views!”
