The off-road sustainable mobility brand and LEVA-EU member AMPYRE has announced various dates and locations for exclusive test-riding opportunities of its upcoming models in Belgium.
AMPYRE has announced its test riding events are open for registration, giving cycling enthusiasts the chance to be the first to ride its latest models and be guided on tours by professional cyclists. The events will include a snack bar and the opportunity to meet the AMPYRE team.
The first event will take place at AMPYRE headquarters in Florenville on April 19, then there will be the opportunity for riders to take part in other test days across Belgium, in Oudenaarde, Wallonia, Knokke and Brussels, and other locations to be announced.
The European Commission has recently unveiled an action plan for the European automotive industry, however it excludes purchasing incentives and social leasing programs for bicycles.
While this initiative aims to accelerate the transition to electric mobility, concerns have been raised about the exclusion of e-bikes from such funding and promotional measures.
Advocacy for e-bike inclusion
Organizations such as Agora Verkehrswende and Zukunft Klimasozial have already published policy papers advocating for the expansion of electric car usage. However, stakeholders in the cycling industry argue that a comprehensive approach to electromobility should include e-bikes to ensure a socially equitable and sustainable transition.
Wasilis von Rauch, Managing Director of German association Zukunft Fahrrad (Future Bicycle), criticized the exclusive focus on electric cars, stating, “Demanding purchasing subsidies only for e-cars sends the wrong political signal. The e-bike in particular is an efficient and healthy form of electromobility – even in rural areas – and is essential for the federal government’s expansion target for cycling. We are calling for sensible electromobility subsidies that combine socially staggered purchase subsidies for small e-cars with a bonus for switching to e-bikes – when buying, subscribing or sharing.”
Economic significance of e-bikes
E-bikes have emerged as a significant economic driver, with Germany positioning itself as a leader in e-bike innovation and market development. To date, approximately 13 million e-bikes have been sold in Germany. However, after experiencing a boom during the COVID-19 pandemic, e-bike sales have now stagnated. Industry experts warn that this downturn threatens not only the growth of cycling infrastructure but also jobs and revenues within the German bicycle industry. Restricting electromobility incentives solely to electric cars could have adverse effects on both business and industrial policy.
Germany’s cycling targets and challenges
The German Federal Government has committed to ambitious cycling targets under the National Cycling Plan (NRVP 3.0). Initially introduced by former Transport Minister Andreas Scheuer (CDU), the plan aims to double cycling performance in Germany between 2017 and 2030, increasing from 112 to 224 million kilometers per day. The current traffic light coalition has affirmed its intention to implement NRVP 3.0. In February 2023, the CDU/CSU proposed a binding implementation law for the plan in the Bundestag.
However, recent findings from the Fraunhofer Institute for Systems and Innovation Research (Fraunhofer ISI) indicate that, without additional measures, cycling performance is projected to grow by only 20% between 2017 and 2035. This falls significantly short of the doubling target set for 2030, highlighting the urgent need for further policy support to enhance cycling infrastructure and e-bike adoption.
Future of e-mobility policy
As the European Commission introduces its e-mobility action plan, cycling advocates continue to push for a more inclusive approach that recognizes e-bikes as a crucial component of sustainable transportation. The coming months will determine whether European policymakers integrate these perspectives into their broader electromobility strategy.
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Norweigan micromobility brand responds to increasing demand for its sustainable, cutting-edge transport solutions.
Norwegian micromobility company and LEVA-EU member Podbike has announced an expansion of its delivery services, making its innovative FRIKAR™ e-bike more accessible to customers across Europe. This move comes in response to increasing demand for more environmentally friendly transportation.
Since its establishment in 2016, Podbike has been dedicated to developing and delivering cutting-edge mobility products with minimal environmental impact.
The company’s distribution network now includes:
Enhanced accessibility for German customers, thanks to eight dealerships across Germany,
A direct ordering option for Norwegian customers via Podbike’s official website, along with opportunities for test rides.
The establishment of Podbike’s first dealership in Switzerland through a partnership with Elfar.
New agreements with distributors in France and Belgium, with deliveries expected to begin before summer 2025.
Podbike is also actively seeking additional distribution partners to further expand its presence in Europe, and welcomes any distributor suggestions at hello@podbike.com. By increasing the availability of its FRIKAR™ e-bike, the company aims to enhance its sustainable mobility offerings, making its practical and eco-conscious transportation solution more accessible to consumers.
Explore eight innovative urban mobility solutions that have recently received the prestigious URBACT Good Practice label.
In our increasingly connected world, creating an efficient and appealing urban mobility experience for all is essential for a vibrant city. Transportation options must be both accessible and adaptable to meet diverse needs, while also delivering benefits to local residents and visitors alike. These advantages can manifest in various ways, such as reduced costs, enhanced efficiency, or improved health outcomes—ultimately making travel within and to a city a more pleasant experience.
Here we look at eight notable urban mobility solutions, part of the 116 newly recognized URBACT Good Practices. At the close of 2024, European cities and regions were encouraged to present their sustainable development initiatives through an open call. Each URBACT Good Practice was chosen based on a thorough expert evaluation, considering its local impact, the extent of participatory and integrated approaches, and its potential for replication in other European cities.
Motivations for specific mobility purposes
Although various solutions might be publicly available, the mobility experience is not equal for everyone, and the choice of modes of transit are highly dependent on the specific travel purpose. For cities to provide and facilitate suitable urban mobility solutions, an understanding of the common needs and desires of mobility users, sharing a specific mobility purpose, is crucial.
#1 – Zaragoza (ES)
The STARS Zaragoza Project has reached 12,000 primary and secondary school students through an initiative to utilise non-polluting means of travel. By focusing on the promotion of students’ autonomous commuting, city authorities have achieved remarkable results. These include: (i) the establishment of student groups that encourage the use of bikes, supported by a teacher network; (ii) the introduction of female biking role models; (iii) the design of personalised school routes.
The project’s impact extends beyond the local. Thanks to an alliance between local, regional and state administration and public bodies, the project acts as a beacon of successful multi-level governance.
#2- Strasbourg Eurométropole (FR)
Cycling is not only eco-friendly but also budget-friendly for many individuals. The Au Boulot à Vélo, or Bike to Work Challenge, promotes bike commuting, particularly targeting professionals, and is organized in partnership with a local NGO. This annual campaign, which spans the entire month of June, collaborates closely with local cycling groups and businesses.
In the latest edition, 17,000 participants took part, with over half being women, showcasing a growing trend. Remarkably, more than 2,000 of these participants were newcomers to biking for work. This initiative demonstrates to many that a work commute by bike is not only feasible but also an appealing option.
#3- Faenza (IT)
The Bike to Work initiative stands out as another exemplary practice, co-funded by the Municipality of Faenza and the Emilia-Romagna Region. It employs various incentives, including reimbursements for distances cycled, competitive leaderboards, and reward systems, all facilitated through a specialized app.
So far, participants have collectively cycled a distance equivalent to 15 times around the Earth! The top performers are recognized by the local government during a public ceremony.
#4- Hannut (BE)
Ride and Buy is a unique app designed to promote sustainable urban transportation. It encourages students to bike to school with their parents and provides trials and discounts on electric bicycles. Additionally, it offers vouchers redeemable at local shops based on the distance traveled by bike.
This initiative was born from the creativity of local youth and brought to life with the collaboration of city and regional authorities, highlighting a truly community-driven effort.
What can your city learn from the above initiatives?
Addressing specific needs necessitates a thorough comprehension of individual motivations and the benefits they seek. Collaborating with key stakeholders has been essential in enhancing mobility solutions by aligning them with relevant strategic frameworks. This approach has helped ensure that initiatives endure beyond political terms. These efforts have already sparked adaptations that engage local businesses, schools, and even neighboring municipalities.
On-demand rural mobility solutions
Delivering traditional public transport can be quite challenging in sparsely populated regions. Many rural areas in Europe struggle to connect scattered communities with effective mobility solutions and resources. Two recently recognized URBACT Good Practices are addressing this issue by promoting on-demand mobility services.
#5 – Viseu Dão Lafões(PT)
Ir e Vir enables residents across 13 municipalities to request rides via a free phone line. This taxi-operated service is available on demand, specifically for prearranged stops according to a set schedule, and only when no public transport options are available. It offers accessibility at bus-equivalent fares while optimizing routes based on reservations made a day in advance.
#6 – Coimbra (PT)
SIT FLEXI provides a comparable service for its residents, also operated by taxis and available only by reservation. This solution even incorporates interoperability with other mobility services. The planning of routes, stops, and timetables is developed collaboratively, taking into account the needs and preferences of residents and the municipalities involved.
What can your city learn from these two initiatives?
These schemes are tailored for rural on-demand services, showcasing how cities can benefit from utilizing existing taxi networks and transportation options. Public authorities have effectively reduced operational costs and minimized environmental impact compared to traditional public transport systems.
Crucially, these solutions help maintain vital connections within a larger urban-rural network. In essence, they not only improve quality of life and foster social cohesion but also enhance access to essential services like healthcare, education, and job opportunities. Such initiatives can even entice former city dwellers to return.
While implementing app-based booking systems, it’s essential to retain a phone-based option to accommodate users with limited digital skills.
Integrated mobility strategies
Creating, adapting, and sustaining accessible mobility solutions for everyone is a challenging task. Addressing the diverse and evolving needs of the community presents logistical challenges and reveals the limitations of current infrastructure in developing a truly inclusive urban environment. Disjointed mobility solutions risk neglecting specific needs or discouraging the adoption of more sustainable alternatives.
#7 – Brussels (BE)
Through the URBACT Good Practice cAIRgo Bike initiative, Brussels encourages the use of cargo bikes to improve urban air quality. This initiative includes subsidies for cargo bike purchases, shared bike systems, and designated parking facilities.
In addition to enhancing physical infrastructure, the program offers training for families and professionals to ensure safe and effective usage. It also collaborates with local NGOs and private enterprises, aligning with city and regional policies, and has successfully addressed issues of traffic congestion and pollution.
#8 – Komotini (GR)
In Komotini, the Accessible City for All initiative has transformed the perception of individuals with disabilities. Instead of being seen merely as a group in need of assistance, they are now valued partners in shaping the city’s identity.
This initiative, co-funded by the local government and implemented by a community NGO, allows individuals with disabilities to engage in advisory boards and steering committees, and in some cases, to lead and manage various activities. The city is also creating environments that facilitate the rehabilitation of disabled individuals, encouraging them to come to Komotini. This effort has not only improved urban infrastructure for all residents but has also led to the development of social initiatives, including a community center, a halfway house, and an activity center run by and for individuals with disabilities, along with after-school programs for children with intellectual disabilities.
What can your city learn from these two initiatives?
Both Komotini and Brussels showcase effective mobility plans that have achieved remarkable results. While Brussels capitalizes on the unique benefits of cargo bikes, Komotini provides an urban setting that not only supports but also empowers a potentially overlooked demographic.
These strategies can motivate other communities to advocate for similar transformative changes in their own cities.
Comprehensive data is available for the first time on shared mobility in Belgium. By the end of 2024, more than 40,000 shared vehicles were in operation, including 21,721 shared bicycles, 18,764 shared scooters, and 8,976 shared cars.
Flanders accounts for the largest portion of shared bicycles, with 64% of the total. Meanwhile, Brussels and Wallonia hold 35% and 1%, respectively. When it comes to shared scooters, the highest concentration is in Brussels, which hosts over half (52%) of the country’s 18,764 scooters.
24 million trips taken on shared bikes and scooters in 2024
Beyond the sheer number of available vehicles, their usage is also noteworthy. Shared bikes and scooters were used for a staggering 24 million rides throughout 2024. Flanders leads in bike usage, accounting for 76.7% of all rides, whereas Brussels dominates scooter usage with 63.6% of all trips.
Nearly 2 million active users
In 2024, there were 722,997 active users of shared bicycles and 1,237,280 users of shared scooters. Preferences for bike-sharing systems differ by region.
In Flanders, nearly 80% of trips involve back-to-many systems with fixed stations, such as Antwerp’s red Velo bikes, which can be dropped off at any designated Velo station. However, only 40% of shared bikes in Flanders belong to this system. In contrast, Brussels users favor back-to-many bikes without fixed stations (i.e. such as those from Dott and Bolt) which can be left at designated drop zones marked in the app. Although these bikes account for less than half of Brussels’ supply, they represent two-thirds of all shared bike trips in the region.
Availability drives usage
An important takeaway from the report is that increased shared bike and scooter availability leads to greater usage. “That is an important conclusion,” says Jeffrey Matthijs, director of Way To Go. Notable trends include the high usage of electric back-to-many bikes without fixed stations in Brussels (4.1 rides per day per 1,000 residents) and those with fixed stations in Flanders (2.9 rides per day). Meanwhile, Brussels stands out for its shared scooter usage, boasting 7.8 scooters and 16.6 rides per day per 1,000 residents.
Brussels leads in shared mobility density
Brussels has the highest density of shared vehicles, with 6.1 shared bikes and 7.8 shared scooters per 1,000 residents. Flanders follows with 2.0 bikes and 1.0 scooter per 1,000 residents, while Wallonia trails with 0.1 shared bike and 0.6 shared scooters per 1,000 residents. “Internationally, the Brussels Region scores better than cities such as London and Rotterdam, but it lags behind frontrunners such as Paris,” notes Matthijs.
Car sharing sees 22% growth
The number of car-sharing users in Flanders has surged, rising by 22% to reach 46,599 active participants in 2024. This figure includes users of round-trip and private shared cars, but excludes free-floating car-sharing services due to a lack of reported data. As a result, the true number of car-sharing participants is likely even higher.
A comprehensive review of shared mobility
The data comes from Way To Go’s latest shared mobility report. While the organization has previously published annual car-sharing figures, this marks the first time bike and scooter sharing have been systematically analyzed.
As of 1st March 2025 Klever Mobility will centralise its marketing and customer service activities in Bunnik, the Netherlands, to optimise the growing speed pedelec market in Europe.
Klever has made this strategic move to operate more efficiently in serving its dealers and customers in Switzerland, as well as Germany, with its market requiring a more flexible and future-proof approach. Klever organising its dealer network support from Bunnik means that it can streamline its customer service system with the optimisation of spare parts management, with quick and direct deliveries to dealers. “This keeps the level of service high and both dealers and end customers can count on the quality and reliability they are used to,” explains general manager Ruud Sjamaar.
Logistically, the speed pedelec brand will work together with its esteemed partners to accelerate its dealer support system, Westerman will deliver its products to German dealers and Zibatra will keep supporting distribution in Switzerland.
“With our Dutch-Belgian team, we look forward to taking responsibility for the German and Swiss markets. Since October 2024, Klever has become the second largest speed pedelec player in the Benelux region and the outlook for 2025 is promising,” says Sjamaar.
Speed pedelecs from LEVA-EU member Klever have been introduced to help the fire brigades in the municipality of Houten, Netherlands.
Aimed at enhancing efficiency and sustainability, the 26 Klever speed-pedelec e-bikes are supplied by local retailer Bikestore Houten, to provide firefighters with speedy, environmentally friendly transportation when responding to emergencies.
The selected model Klever N Pinion 45 is equipped to travel with speeds of up to 45 km/h, making it an ideal solution for reducing response times. Outfitted with the iconic fire service logos, the bikes were officially deployed to users on January 22. By adopting these vehicles, Houten underscores its commitment to sustainability while simultaneously reducing the reliance on cars for short-distance travel.
Features that prioritize safety and performance
According to Dominique Berendse, co-owner of Bikestore Houten, the Klever speed pedelecs were chosen for their reliability and advanced features. “Klever speed pedelecs are among the most reliable models on the market. The bikes are equipped with unique safety features, such as powerful lighting, brake lights and direction indicators that can be easily operated with the thumb from the steering wheel. This makes the bikes safe and easily visible, even in dark conditions. The chosen model N Pinion 45 has belt drive with a sow. Pinion gearbox.”
The N Pinion 45 model features a belt drive system paired with a robust Pinion gearbox, ensuring durability and low maintenance. The collaboration with Bikestore Houten extends beyond the purchase; the retailer has committed to providing ongoing maintenance and fast repair services to ensure the pedelecs remain in optimal condition.
A sustainable solution for quick response
By integrating speed pedelecs into its fire services, Houten sets an example for other municipalities seeking innovative mobility solutions. These e-bikes offer a dual advantage: reducing environmental impact by cutting down on car usage and enabling volunteers to reach the fire station quickly when called upon.
With this forward-thinking approach, the municipality of Houten reinforces its dedication to both environmental responsibility and operational efficiency. The delivery of the speed pedelecs marks an encouraging chapter in integrating sustainable technology into public safety.
The full Nieuwsfiets article can be accessed here.
E-bikes have solidified their position as a key part of modern mobility in Germany, with significant growth in usage and notable contributions to sustainability in 2024.
A comprehensive report released by IoT Venture GmbH analyses the latest trends, environmental impacts, and challenges associated with e-bike usage across the country.
Surge in e-bike usage
The report shows an increase in e-bike activity in 2024, particularly during the third quarter of the year. Based on data from over 100,000 GPS trackers, the majority of e-bike trips were recorded on weekdays, especially from Tuesday to Thursday, with the average ride lasting 19 minutes. Weekend rides tended to be slightly longer. Even in colder months, e-bike use remained resilient, with over two million kilometres ridden in the fourth quarter alone.
Findings also revealed that some e-bikes were in near-constant use throughout the year. Among the six most-used e-bikes, each were operated on 357 or more days in 2024, reflecting their integral role in daily mobility.
Sustainability achievements
E-bikes continue to demonstrate their potential as a sustainable alternative to traditional vehicles that require fossil fuels for transportation. On average, e-bike trips in 2024 saved 399 grams of carbon dioxide per journey, culminating in 963 tons of CO2 reductions among the most active users. To put this into perspective, a car produces approximately two tonnes of CO2 annually over 15,000 kilometers. The CO2 saved by e-bike users in 2024 is equivalent to avoiding over 481 years of car emissions.
Regional trends and theft concerns
Urban centres remain at the forefront of e-bike adoption. Frankfurt, Cologne, and Berlin led in terms of trips per capita, with Hamburg and Munich following closely behind. However, theft remains a pressing issue, particularly in large cities which account for 82% of reported cases. Smaller towns and rural areas reported significantly lower theft rates, at just 1.4% and 2%, respectively.
The report also highlights peak theft times, with most incidents occurring in the early morning around 7 a.m. or during the afternoon between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. The third and fourth quarters of the year recorded the highest theft rates.
Maintenance and repairs
E-bike maintenance also saw seasonal trends, with a decline in repairs early in the year followed by an increase towards year-end. This suggests that consistent upkeep remains crucial for ensuring reliable e-bike performance.
As e-bikes continue to gain traction across Germany, their role in fostering sustainable transportation and reducing carbon emissions is becoming increasingly evident. However, challenges such as theft require ongoing attention to ensure the continued growth and safety of e-bike usage.
For further details, the full IoT Venture report can be accessed online.
A recent field study conducted by the University of Twente and Saxion demonstrates the potential of smart cycling technology to improve safety for e-bike riders.
The study, conducted in Enschede during April and May 2024, revealed that cyclists equipped with a prototype warning system felt safer and exhibited reduced speeds at locations deemed high-risk for accidents.
The field study participants stated that they felt safer on electric bicycles when they received warnings via smart bicycle technology about locations with a high accident risk. Another effect of the technology was that the average speed of participants also decreased.
Field study setting
It took place in Enschede in the Netherlands and involved 46 regular cyclists aged 18 and over. They rode an e-bike equipped with sensors to measure their cycling behaviour with two smartphones mounted on the handlebars. One had a navigation system and the other featured a prototype warning system which displayed the cyclist’s speed and gave warnings if the cyclist rode close to one of five locations which had a high accident risk on their route. They were advised to ride at 20 km/h and, if they were cycling faster than this they would see a red screen, and a green screen if they were cycling slower than the advised speed.
Three study rounds to measure rider experiences
The prototype warning system was switched off for the first round, with cyclists only being shown their current speed. It was switched on for the second and third rounds where, as well as the visual screen warning, they received an audio warning for one round, and a tactile warning via gloves for the other. Participants completed a questionnaire to detail their rider safety, confidence and other system experiences.
Results
The results showed that participants felt safer on the bike when the system was in operation. They found it easy to use but their confidence in it was not very high. When the system was in operation, the average rider speed was lower. Men reduced their speed more than women, but women arrived at the dangerous locations at a lower speed. People who cycled a regular bike or e-bike weekly were more likely to reduce their speed based on audio feedback than based on haptic feedback.
Smart bike technology is viewed to be one of the possibilities for increasing cycling safety by preventing accidents; whether it will make it to market will depend on how riders view it. The study authors believe that their findings show that there is potential for this type of warning system, and for more advanced technology. The study results can be accessed here from the scientific journal of Cycling and Micromobility research.
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