Tag Archive: electric bicycles

  1. MAHLE SmartBike Systems partners with Sport Import to expand its partner network

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    LEVA-EU member MAHLE SmartBike Systems responds to market interest in its drive systems for electric bicycles by partnering with Sport Import, the Edewecht-based leader in distribution of accessories and spare parts. Sport Import will sell MAHLE’s components in Germany and Poland.

    MAHLE SmartBike Systems, a leader in producing the lightest eBike drive systems on the market, has announced a strategic partnership with Sport Import, a major distributor for the cycling industry. This partnership will allow Sport Import to sell spare parts for X20 and X35+ drive systems, including Range Extender and eShifters, among other accessories, as a key step in MAHLE’s goal to expand its partner network.

    As distributor for MAHLE SmartBike Systems in two important European markets like Germany and Poland, this collaboration is part of MAHLE’s strategy to improve customer service for their eBike components, which can be found in more than 60 leading industry brands.

    Peter Daniel Wilhelm, Sales Manager for the DACH region at MAHLE SmartBike Systems, comments on the cooperation with Sport Import saying: “Sport Import is the reliable partner we were looking for, for our products. The know-how in placing technical products into the market combined with the excellent retail structure convinced us right from the start.”

    Alexander Müllmann, owner and CEO of Sport Import adds, “The products of MAHLE SmartBike Systems are extremely innovative. Combined with the weight advantage, this has led to MAHLE systems being found in many of the most technologically advanced electric bikes on the market in recent years.” Michael Müllmann, founder and CEO, adds, “The addition of MAHLE SmartBike Systems components to our portfolio is an important step for us into the e-drive market. In addition, the cooperation strengthens our presence in two important European markets.” Sport Import distributes Mahle SmartBike Systems products in Germany and Poland.

    With a strong commitment to innovation and technology for the design and development of the most compact, light, and smart drive systems for eBikes, MAHLE SmartBike Systems partnering with Sport Import can further solidify its position as a leader in the eBike market and bring its innovative solutions to even more riders around the world.

    About MAHLE SmartBike Systems:

    MAHLE SmartBike systems is the leading supplier of hardware and software solutions behind some of the most innovative eBikes in the world. Its innovative solutions are guided by continuous dialog between the bicycle brands, dealers, and riders. Headquartered in Palencia (Spain), MAHLE SmartBike Systems is the subsidiary of MAHLE Group, a leading international supplier to the automotive industry.

    About Sport Import:

    Sport Import GmbH is a brand distributor of bicycle accessories and parts in the MTB, road, gravel, BMX and urban cycling sectors. Based in Edewecht/Lower Saxony, Sport Import serves more than 3,500 specialist dealers across Europe. With more than 80 employees at the company – founded in 1982 – it takes care of over 35 brands: In addition to the supply of goods and support, Sport Import offers its specialist retail partners, among other things, brand-specific service, training and implements marketing measures and trade fair presences. A large IT department ensures lean processes and innovative trading and ordering tools. The company’s own warehouse with an area of more than 5000 m² offers space for tens of thousands of articles – from brake pads to complete wheels. Together with purchasing control, it guarantees the high delivery capacity of Sport Import GmbH.

  2. From surveying 400 speed pedelec users, 80% have reduced their car usage

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    According to Kopgroep’s survey on 400 speed pedelec riders, there is a direct relationship between speed pedelec purchasing and car usage reduction. They found 80% of speed pedelec owners use the fast bicycle for commuting instead of their (second) family car. This representative research confirms the perception of these bicycles as a transport alternative in the fight against traffic congestion in the Netherlands.

    The research reveals that fast bicycles are used frequently with a staggering 96% of riders using a speed pedelec for commuting, with two-thirds of these riders traveling more than twenty kilometers one way to work. 80% of them ride to work at least three days a week, with 68% riding (almost always) in bad weather. From these findings, it was calculated that the speed pedelec usage of the surveyed group covers more than 5000 km per year.

    High risk

    The speed pedelec is allowed to ride among motorized vehicles on the road in many urban areas. One-third of riders perceive the restricted top speed (45 km/h) of the speed pedelec as a significant risk when riding amidst cars. This is particularly relevant on roads where motorists often exceed the 50 km/h limit. In such situations, speed pedelec riders want the freedom to choose safer bicycle paths at a slower speed. The absence of this choice hinders further growth for speed pedelec usage. So far, some ministries have been reluctant to include this freedom of choice in the law.

    Ministerial Responsibility

    The municipalities of Rotterdam and Amersfoort are the first to offer this freedom of choice. Speed pedelec riders in these two municipalities can apply for an exemption, allowing them to choose between riding on the roadway or, at an adjusted speed, on the bicycle path. The survey shows appreciation for this approach, but it also highlights inequality among the 342 municipalities in the Netherlands. Various municipalities, including the province of Utrecht, will follow the example set by Rotterdam and Amersfoort. Speedy cyclists would need to see solutions from an adjustment of legislation rather than relying on individual exemptions per municipality.

    Better road education

    The survey also indicates other road users have insufficient knowledge of the rules regarding fast bicycle riding. An information campaign to better inform road users about speed pedelec positioning on the road and bicycle paths can help encourage potential riders to make the switch from cars to bicycles.

    The use of speed pedelecs means fewer cars are on the road, which helps to reduce emissions and ensure that more people meet daily physical activity requirements.

    More information

    Kopgroep, is an independent group of speed pedelec riders that consult with other speed pedelec users. This survey serves as an example of their work.

  3. Laka collaborates with Sigma Sports and CycleSoftware

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    Laka has partnered with Sigma Sports and CycleSoftware to provide customers with insurance solutions at the point of sale (POS). 30 days of free insurance is offered to Sigma Sports’ customers on their new bike purchase, after which preferential rates are obtainable. Recognising their integrated approach, CycleSoftware has also introduced Laka’s service to its customers.

    “We are excited to add Laka to our insurance links within CycleSoftware,” said Jebbe Sluiter of CycleSoftware. “Laka has an excellent reputation as an insurer for sporty bikes, e-bikes, and cargo bikes, and we are confident that our bike shop customers will benefit from the addition of Laka to our platform. This enables them to serve their customers even better and provide a seamless experience during the sales process.”

    For the past five years, Laka has won the ‘Best Cycle Insurance Provider Award’, reflective of its cooperative stance regarding issuance policies for customers and businesses alike. Customers are only charged based on the cost of claims submitted in the previous month. There are no upfront payments, so customers benefit from fair premiums. All claims are handled by Laka, who divides the cost and limits each customer’s maximum monthly spend. Caps are based on the value of the equipment insured by each individual member.

    Laka Partnership Manager, Joost Klarenbeek, commented, “Thanks to the collaboration with CycleSoftware, we can expand our reach and make our insurances even more accessible to bicycle shops in the Netherlands. It is important to mention that we do not demand exclusivity from the bike shops we work with. As a result, they retain the freedom to offer other insurers to their customers.”

    Meanwhile, commenting on its collaboration with Sigma Sports, Laka CEO, Tobias Taupitz, remarked, “Laka is proud to partner with Sigma Sports, a well-known name in the UK cycling community, and we’re determined to provide a best-in-class experience for its customers.

    “Together, we can help their customers fully enjoy their bike, knowing that Laka has their backs and swiftly get them back on the saddle if needed.”

    Sigma Sports is renowned for retailing bikes and accessories and supplying in-store services that include maintenance and bike fitting. The partnership with Laka is reflective of Laka’s existing network of similar bike shops and brands.

    James McEuen, CEO of Sigma Sports, added, “At Sigma Sports we pride ourselves on our excellent customer service and the highest quality bikes and equipment. We take the same care and attention when choosing those businesses, we partner with and Laka is a perfect example of that same commitment to outstanding quality of care for the customer.

    “It is great to be able to offer 30 days free insurance on their new bike purchase with access to preferential rates thereafter.

    “We know Laka will look after our customers and their bikes in the best way possible and keep them pedalling no matter what.”

  4. AureusDrive bikes covering kilometers worldwide

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    LEVA-EU member AureusDrive shares riders’ photos from around the globe

    The Switzerland-based e-bike manufacturer AureusDrive recently shared customers’ photos of their bikes in multiple locations, along with the accompanying stories.

    Swiss design meets Candian city life

    One customer took her AureusDrive Comfort to Vancouver, where she uses it for everyday life.

    Arriving in Port-Saint-Louis-du-Rhône

    Another customer, along with a colleague, undertook an extended ride along the Rhône from Gletsch in Valais, to the Mediterranean coast at Port-Saint-Louis-du-Rhône, France. The two covered more than 900 km in just seven days!

    Portugal views

    A world-record attempt at cycling 20,000 km in one go was started two years ago by Reto Steimer, using an AureusDrive Classic 25. Unfortunately, a knee injury forced an early stop to the attempt, but many kilometers were covered trouble-free to that point!

    AureusDrive is working towards ecological mobility for all, and develops, designs, configures and assembles e-bike systems with a focus on the commuter. To date, the company estimates that its e-bike community has collectively achieved a total mileage in seven figures, and reduced CO2 emissions by 150,000 kg. Find out more here.

  5. Ellio reveals its new speed pedelec model, the Max

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    LEVA-EU member Ellio has unveiled its new Max model, which the company describes as a powerful combination of in-house expertise, innovation and insights from the Ellio Rider community

    The speed pedelec features integration of sustainable materials and components, including a Gates Carbon Drive CDX drive belts, hydraulic disc brakes and Ellio’s own two-wheel drive featuring an automatic gear-shifting system.

    Ellio says that the Max has been designed to get riders to their destination smoothly, every day, and is confident that, whatever the road conditions and distance, smooth and reliable commuting is assured.

    The Ellio Max can be explored further here.

  6. US legislators introduce de minimis reform bill

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    Source: Bicycle Retailer and Industry News

    Senate legislation has been introduced in Washington to restrict non-market economies, for example China, from using the de minimis threshold to import products, including e-bikes and lithium-ion batteries, that are potentially unsafe for the US market

    The Import Security and Fairness Act was submitted by reps. Earl Blumenauer (D-Ore.) and Neal Dunn (R-Fla.), and Sens. Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) and Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), and follows the original bill passed in January 2022 that strives to keep economies from taking advantage of the $800 de minimis threshold. Already an estimated two million packages enter the US under that threshold on a daily basis, without inspection, duties, and taxes, including e-bikes and lithium-ion batteries.

    Lithium-ion batteries and unregulated e-bikes regularly enter the US, through the direct-to-consumer retail stream.

    Ways and Means Subcommittee on Trade member, Earl Blumenauer, commented, “The de minimis loophole is a threat to American competitiveness, consumer safety, and basic human rights,” further mentioning, “It is used by primarily Chinese companies to ship over two million packages a day into the United States. It puts American businesses at a competitive disadvantage while flooding American consumers with undoubtedly harmful products. There is virtually no way to tell whether packages that come in under the de minimis limit contain products made with forced labor, intellectual property theft, or are otherwise dangerous. It is time to close this loophole once and for all.”

    Under the Import Security and Fairness Act, Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) would be required to collect more information on all de minimis shipments whilst paying close attention to those importing the products, prohibiting any that have been suspended or debarred from using the rule.

    Because off-shore retailers are out of reach from the US government and the legal system, products entering under the de minimis rule can also avoid Product Safety Commission regulations. Blumenauer suggested that some importers use strategies such as “creative invoicing” in which haulers and manufacturers adjust invoice values to below $800.

    Blumenauer went on to say, “Part of what’s happening with the ‘creative invoicing’ is we see an explosion — and I use that term advisedly — of e-bikes that are $799, and we’ve had a number of problems because they have defective batteries, especially in New York, but in other places.

    “I think there are a series of steps that need to be taken to deal with what is a genuine threat to public safety as well as unfair competition.”

    The legislation has been endorsed by a number of leading US organisations and think tanks.

  7. Successes of the Welsh E-Move project

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    Source: Sustrans, April 2023

    Funded by the Welsh Government, the E-Move project has been in operation since 2021 and has provided many in Wales with a free electric cycle loan. Sustrans’ Research and Monitoring Unit (RMU) team have collaborated with Jack Kinder, an MSc research student from Cardiff University, to analyse interview data from those who have taken part in the project.

    Sustrans have been interviewing those who have taken the government loan, to see how it has treated them and indeed, what their experiences of e-bikes and e-cargo bikes are like. This data was cleared by participants and shared with Jack, who was already interested in researching e-cycles, how e-cycles might affect rural Welsh communities, and wider carbon emissions.

    Jack used practise theory in his E-Move analysis, based upon behaviour change. This theory considers the impact that our society has on us in addition to individual behaviours and evaluates decision making as social practises that are influenced by wider environmental and social conditions and our individual life experiences.

    The interview data identified many common barriers to cycling that significantly pushed people towards motorised transport in rural Wales. These included:
    • terrain and landscape
    • lack of dedicated cycling infrastructure
    • not feeling welcome on roads
    • negative views about cycling
    • perceived danger
    • stigma from other road users and people cycling.

    One respondent commented that although the route into town was flat for them, they ‘prefer not to go down the main roads because I don’t feel particularly safe on a bike with the traffic.’

    The wide range of demographics in the data also concluded on alternative barriers to choosing pedal power over motors, in the older generation over the younger, for example, ‘You see a few people cycling, but it’s so hilly that it’s impractical unless you are 21 and super-fit.’

    The e-cycle solution

    One significant advantage of electric-powered cycles is their ability to overcome many of the barriers that were highlighted. Those aforementioned hills can be defeated, for example. E-Move has also enabled capabilities for those taking up the task to cycle further and more often, wonderful for the health of the nation and a certified boost for confidence and independence. The agility of the electric bicycles and cargo bikes has also installed confidence in sharing the road with traffic, with one participant commenting,

    ‘A couple of times I’d just go into Newtown to do some shopping, which I wouldn’t have done on a standard bike… by the time you’ve put 5kg of shopping on, you’re not going to do that on a standard bike 8 miles out of town, so yeah very positive!’

    Participants using those e-bikes fitted with child seats also commented that it made their child-caring responsibilities easier to fulfil than using a car or taxi, another positive endorsement.

    E-Move Continues

    The success of the E-Move project has meant expansion into a third year. Sustrans’ RMU does relay that there are still barriers that need to be defeated, particularly the cost of an electric bicycle, but also personal safety and uncertainty of where e-bike users belong on the road. Training with an accredited provider is advised. In addition, there are challenges from the UK Government’s funding cuts to active travel.

    Data collaboration

    The project between Sustrans and Cardiff University was an opportunity to explore the E-Move project in more depth and study the highs and lows of those taking part. In addition, the project brought real benefit to Jack’s studies thanks to working with real-world data.

    The conclusion was that E-Move should be expanded so that it can reach as many people as possible. This is obviously a positive deduction, one that goes some way in increasing the health of the nation and bringing back cycling enjoyment to those who may have been missing out. There are so many positive aspects to cycling over motor vehicles, and the Welsh Government’s 2024 extension of the E-Move project is very welcomed.

    Find out more about the E-Move community e-cycle project.

    Read more about Sustrans’ work in Wales.

  8. Dutch survey shows preference for helmets with ebikes

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    Source: Nederland elektrisch

    Research from MSI Consultants has concluded that the majority of the Dutch would like to see electric cyclists wear a helmet. In addition, age restrictions for young and old are favoured, all of which address safety concerns for this group of cyclists.

    Percentages

    The topic of MSI’s National Choice Stress Monitor changes monthly, with this particular research surveying 1,000 Dutch people aged 18-years and older on the use of electric bicycles versus regular bicycles and in particular, any safety concerns. 41% of those who responded own an electric bicycle while 34% are considering buying one. The cost of purchasing a new electric bicycle remains the stumbling block. The vast majority believe that they are not affordable for everyone, and those considering the move from regular bicycles have smaller budgets.

    Additional findings from the survey include usage of the e-bikes. Grocery shopping was the most common use at 58%, while sports activities and meeting family members were also popular at 49%. Usage on holiday and recreational activities that aren’t a daily occurrence ranked at 38%, while commuting use amounted to 37%. Bad weather was the fundamental barrier to daily two-wheeled commuting.

    Safety in numbers

    Road safety remains a concern for those surveyed, particularly for e-bikes reaching higher speeds. For example, 55% are adamant that bicycle helmets should be compulsory for any e-bikes that reach 25 km/h. For those aged 50+ who took part, the percentage was even higher. One respondent commented, ‘Electric bicycles go faster than you think and the impact is greater in an accident than with regular bicycles.’ Customised electric bicycles were also a concern with 65% surveyed (and 73% of women) wanting police to enforce some regulation.

    The safety concerns and helmet obligation suggestions haven’t waned the popularity of e-bikes, except among the younger generation, who said that they would lose some interest in electric bikes if helmets were compulsory.

    54% of those surveyed also favoured minimum and maximum age restrictions for electric bike riders at 16-years and 75-years accordingly. Recklessness in the younger generation and fragility in those older riders was seen as a concern amongst both regular and e-bikes users, with one commenting, ‘Children go too fast and the elderly are fragile’.

    Of course, those over 60 saw it differently and less discriminately, highlighting that it was down to ‘personal alertness, fitness and attentiveness’ rather than age. MSI Consultants were also reminded that it was good for the well-being of the older generation, with one respondent adding that the electric bicycle, ‘can be a fun outing for the elderly.’

  9. Fluctuo publishes Q1 2023 European Shared Mobility Index

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    Source: Fluctuo European Shared Mobility Index Q1 (2023)

    The first quarter of 2023 has been a challenging one, and cities and shared mobility operators are changing tack on transport innovation. Some cities are limiting the number of vehicles that can be present at one time, with Paris even banning shared scooters in April. Operators are finding little profit in the shared transport city solutions, but there is a lot more to discover and rider numbers are still increasing.

    Fluctuo predicts that some cities have reached full capacity for electric scooters, whereas others, particularly Eastern Europe, haven’t. Shared bikes are expected to catch shared scooters in terms of user numbers, while improved efficiency will see more people using the systems.

    It is commonly accepted that urban density plays a huge part in public transport logistics in our cities. In the most densely populated areas, there is a shift away from private car usage, instead encouraging other modes of transport and more simplified means of getting around, particularly when the focus on the city is in one place, for example workplace communities. Here, amenities are close by, so use of walking, cycling and public transport is encouraged. This benefits our health and reduces our carbon footprint.

    Shared mobility – namely bikes, scooters and mopeds – is also urged, and Fluctuo has collected data from over 90 European countries that shows cities with a population of 5000 km2 have over 10,000 shared vehicles. At 8,600 vehicles, Copenhagen is the only exception. Some of these cities are, of course, Europe’s largest, so this may not come as a total surprise. Outside of this 90-city quota, an additional 6 cities with a dense urban population were found to have fewer than 10,000 vehicles. Fluctuo suggests that these cities may not yet be at full capacity and hence, these figures may well change going forwards. Access to shared vehicles is a key factor in improving the environmental impact of our cities.

    An accurate way of quantifying the success of shared vehicles is by looking at the trips per vehicle per day (TVD). Popularity is gathered by the amount of shared vehicles but the TVD tells the real success story. Fluctuo’s investigation found that high population density increased shared vehicle use. This is optimistic and reflects the EU’s overall quest to make city residents healthy and reduce the detriment to the environment.

    Julien Chamussy, CEO at Fluctuo commented,
    “After 5 years of hyper-growth made possible by massive VC-backed investments, shared mobility operators now have months to become profitable.” further adding, “It may seem counterintuitive, but the growing number of calls for tenders and the increased demands of European cities (parking, user safety, environmental impact) could actually help operators. With fewer competitors and smaller fleets, performance metrics on the vehicle level should greatly improve.”

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