Tag Archive: electric motorcycles

  1. Barcelona launches electric motorcycle sharing service

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    Source: Servei Da Premsa

    The Metropolitan Area of Barcelona (AMB) has recently introduced a new service across eight municipalities, with the aim to deploy up to 10,000 motorcycles by the end of the year.

    This initiative is believed to be the largest shared electric motorcycle service in Europe, moving the region closer to sustainable urban mobility. The initial rollout will cover Barcelona, L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Esplugues de Llobregat, Sant Feliu de Llobregat, Sant Just Desvern, Badalona, Santa Coloma de Gramenet, and Sant Adrià de Besòs. Spearheaded by AMB President Jaume Collboni and Mobility Vice President Carlos Cordón, its launch emphasizes the e-motorcycle sharing service’s potential to reduce emissions, enhance air quality, and promote intermodal commuting.

    “Today we are launching the shared electric bike. Let’s take a giant step. It is the largest regulation in Europe. It is a more sustainable option for citizens to be able to choose their best mobility option,” said Cordón. He also believed that it will “promote intermodality and change of habits”.

    How the sharing service will operate

    The AMB awarded licenses to five companies through a public tender process, which will oversee the management of 9,950 electric motorcycles in designated zones. Participating companies include Hori Rides, Yego Urban Mobility, Cooltra Motosharing, Go Sharing, and Acciona Mobility, with each allocated between 1,950 and 2,050 motorcycles. These companies are expected to complete their deployments within 40 days of the announcement.

    To ensure balanced accessibility, the AMB has outlined mandatory service areas, restricted parking zones, and prohibited areas, in line with local regulations. Each company operates independently with its own app and pricing model, though AMB has made the motorcycle locations visible on its Mobility and SMOU applications. All motorcycles and helmets are labeled with an AMB logo for identification, though each company maintains its distinct branding.

    Road safety compliance

    The service also comes with a framework of oversight. The AMB has established a technical committee to collaborate with municipalities and operators, ensuring compliance with safety and road regulations. All operators have agreed to adhere to AMB’s code of road safety practices. The AMB has implemented a penalty system for violations, detailing the levels of infractions and stipulating license revocation procedures if necessary.

    Licensing

    This initiative, crafted with input from over 60 organizations, including the Catalan Competition Authority and the National Commission of Markets and Competition, introduces metropolitan licenses with a two-year validity. Licensees pay an annual fee of €45 for AMB management and additional fees to municipalities for public space use, ensuring financial support for sustainable urban development.

    Barcelona shifting further toward sustainable mobility

    The metropolitan electric motorcycle service represents a strategic shift towards green mobility in Barcelona’s urban landscape, prioritizing sustainable options and aiming to foster a cleaner, healthier metropolitan region.

  2. How solid-state batteries could boost electric motorcycle uptake

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    Source: RideApart

    RideApart considers solid-state battery technology may be essential for electric motorcycles to really take off

    Electric motorcycles have a plethora of environmental benefits, including contributing to a healthier planet for future generations, and practical advantages, such as enjoying the wind while riding, and much more. Despite these real and tangible benefits, one major obstacle to the widespread adoption of electric motorcycles has been range.

    While range concerns are a common criticism of electric vehicles (EVs) in general, the issue is even more pronounced for electric motorcycles. Unlike electric cars, trucks, or SUVs, electric motorcycles can’t accommodate large batteries. These bikes are designed to be compact, and when manufacturers try to fit a large battery into a motorcycle, the result is a heavy bike with limited range. Even the most advanced models, like the Zero DSR/X, can’t offer more than 120 miles per charge in real-world conditions.

    Currently, electric motorcycles are most practical for short commutes or as dirt bikes, like the Stark Varg and upcoming Dust.Moto. However, both city motorcycles and off-road models face challenges. City bikes often encounter inadequate charging infrastructure or chargers that are incompatible with their systems, and early adopters may find their EV motorcycles banned from parking garages due to fire safety concerns.

    Some argue that electric motorcycles won’t be viable for most riders until solid-state batteries are developed and widely adopted. Solid-state batteries, already used in personal electronics, offer incredible energy density in a small package, making them highly sought after by electric vehicle manufacturers. If companies can produce smaller, lighter battery packs with similar or better mileage per charge, it could revolutionize EV design, engineering, and manufacturing costs.

    For motorcycle manufacturers, solid-state batteries would enable the creation of electric motorcycles with a range comparable to their internal combustion counterparts. Though some argue that the average commute is under 40 miles and range isn’t an issue, motorcycles are often used for long rides and adventures. The anxiety of running out of battery on the open road isn’t conducive to fun riding.

    The potential of solid-state batteries lies in enabling longer rides. Samsung recently showcased a 600-mile solid-state battery for cars, hopefully, this technology will eventually trickle down to motorcycles, offering a true 200-mile battery with faster charging times, all without adding extra weight. This would enhance every aspect of the electric motorcycle experience.

  3. India’s electric two-wheeler startups boom

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    India’s electric two-wheeler market is experiencing a surge in startups, climbing from 54 in 2021 to over 150 in recent times. This growth is partly thanks to government incentives aimed at promoting clean vehicles and reducing fossil fuel imports.

    Source: Techcrunch

    An analysis by Bernstein forecasts continued expansion, projecting annual sales of 15-20 million units over the next decade, marking a 15-20 times increase. This surge in startups has fostered intense competition, particularly in the mainstream segment, where 85% of the 65 models launched last year showcased high-speed capabilities, a departure from previous limited offerings.

    The average battery capacity of newly launched models has also seen a notable rise, from 2.3kWhr in 2022 to 3kWhr. India’s ambitious goals of achieving 30% electric vehicle penetration by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions by 2070 are driving these developments.

    Key to this momentum is the government’s FAME II scheme, providing subsidies to buyers, being recently extended to 2024. Despite a reduction in subsidies in mid-2023, the number of electric two-wheeler companies continued to climb, reaching 152 by January 2024. Importers, particularly sourcing components or entire vehicles from China, have significantly contributed to this rise.

    While startups dominate the top ranks, led by Ola Electric, accounting for 39% of the market share as of January 2024, sales volumes remain concentrated among the top five players, comprising 85% of the market. Moreover, low barriers to entry, reliance on outsourced models, and readily available components characterize the industry landscape, with only half of the founders possessing engineering backgrounds.

    As the industry matures, the government is moving towards production-linked incentives (PLI) favouring domestic manufacturing. While established automotive giants have largely secured PLI benefits, only a handful of startups have qualified, potentially providing cost advantages to major incumbents.

    Looking ahead, Bernstein’s analysis anticipates room for five startups to emerge as significant players alongside established companies. Nonetheless, intense competition could temper industry profit margins and returns in the medium term.

  4. Global e-bike drive systems brand, Bafang, looks to embrace challenges and drive progress in 2024

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    As the eBike industry faced a challenging year in 2023 due to a slowdown in demand caused by an unstable international climate and high inventory levels, Bafang, a global drive system supplier with over 20 years of experience in the two-wheeled industry, proactively adjusted its pace to meet market changes. The company further solidified its industry-leading position by leveraging advanced products and superior services.

    Looking ahead to the upcoming year, Bafang plans to continue strengthening its investment in technology and product quality to maintain its resolute and mission-driven approach. The company will push for sustainable development in the industry with unwavering confidence, inject vitality into the market, and lead with a firm step.

    Bafang focuses on providing high-quality and high-performance drive system solutions for global customers, earning the trust of OEMs, brand owners, dealers, and end consumers around the world. In 2023, Bafang celebrated several milestone moments including its first dealer conference, the topping-out ceremony of its new-energy factory, its 20th anniversary, and its seventh technical exchange meeting. Additionally, a series of achievements in battery production, technical recognition by major international product awards, and the successful deployment of the DDS dealer service system all showcased Bafang’s impressive corporate strength and broad market prospects worldwide.

    Furthermore, Bafang continues its expansion into electric motorcycle powertrains with its sister brand, T&D. In 2023, T&D joined forces with Bolt.Earth to deliver unparalleled user experiences, transforming the mobility landscape. Bafang, T&D, and Bolt.Earth teamed up at EICMA 2023 to showcase the strength of their partnership and the future of sustainable mobility.

    Social responsibility and industry mission are indispensable beliefs on Bafang’s path to development. Facing industry challenges head-on, Bafang will continue to focus on product performance, quality control, and after-sales service, ensuring that “quality” and “warranty” are at the forefront of the company’s focus. The company will provide more comprehensive support and protection to each customer by improving production automation coverage and expanding the global after-sales service layout.

    At the same time, Bafang recognizes that its responsibility and mission should not only be limited to high-quality products and services but also contribute to the prosperity of the entire industry. The company is willing to actively participate in industry cooperation, share experiences, and achieve mutual benefits. On the occasion of the New Year, Bafang extends sincere New Year wishes to partners around the world, expressing gratitude for the ongoing support. In 2024, the company will continue to maintain its resolute belief, work together, and create a shared future.

    About BAFANG:

    BAFANG, one of the leading manufacturers of e-mobility components and e-drive systems, has been developing components and complete systems for electric vehicles since 2003. The company is listed on the Shanghai Stock Exchange (603489.SS) and focuses on all global emobility trends of the future: be it individual e-bikes, e-scooters or for public bike sharing systems.

    Bafang employs over 1000 people at 10 international locations worldwide. The headquarters, development and production sites are located in Suzhou, in the immediate vicinity of Shanghai/China. A virtual tour of the new headquarters in Suzhou via a VR Panorama Tour starts here. Bafang has sales and service centers in the Netherlands, the USA, Germany, Denmark, France, Italy, and China. The newly opened plant in Poland focuses on the production of mid-motor systems for the European markets.

    Website: www.bafang-e.com
    E-Mail: info@bafang-e.com

  5. Vroegh design team members interviewed by ZAG Daily

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    Senior project manager Kars Rotteveel and Designer Gaurav Savla shared insights on e-bikes, speed bikes, motorcycles, and more

    Source: ZAG Daily

    In a recent interview with ZAG Daily, VROEGH Design’s senior project manager, Kars Rotteveel, and designer, Gaurav Savla, shed light on the Dutch firm’s prowess in designing a diverse range of new mobility vehicles, with a special focus on the burgeoning e-motorcycle market.

    VROEGH Design, a multifunctional new mobility agency, has already crafted over 50 vehicles, spanning e-bikes, e-cargo bikes, e-scooters, skateboards, and other light electric vehicles for globally recognized brands. Active in 19 countries, the firm aims to assist mobility brands in tailoring vehicles to specific use cases, target demographics, and market demands.

    The spotlight is currently on e-motorcycles, reflecting the industry’s rapid growth. According to Statista, the global market for e-motorcycles, valued at nearly $46 billion, is projected to reach $110 billion by 2030. Notably, e-motorbike sales in the five largest European countries surged by 80% from 2021 to 2022, reaching over 200% in France and Germany.

    Rotteveel and Savla, both driven by a passion for innovative transportation solutions, highlighted the agency’s commitment to e-motorcycles. Rotteveel, formerly with a Dutch e-bike manufacturer, emphasizes the freedom provided by motorcycles, while Savla, with a background in designing motorbikes for Italian firm BENELLI, sees two-wheelers as more suitable for urban mobility.

    Savla elaborates, “they allow the user to be more involved in the process of travelling from A to B and are also more inclusive with the environment…The shift to e-motorbikes can be put down to convenience and reliability.”

    Discussing their design process, the team outlined a phased approach involving market analysis, user stories, and client collaboration. The engineering phase incorporates 3D printing and prototype iterations, leading to mass production. Emphasizing the importance of accessibility, the team aims to create vehicles tailored to diverse needs, ensuring the seamless transition from traditional cars to electric alternatives.

    Looking ahead, Rotteveel envisions a market segment where e-bike and e-motorbike developers converge, emphasizing the need for enhanced safety and efficiency in e-bikes and more compact designs for e-motorbikes. As the industry evolves, VROEGH Design remains at the forefront, driving innovation and shaping the future of sustainable urban mobility.

    Rotteveel is quoted in conclusion: “E-bike makers should focus on making their products safer and sturdier, while e-motorbike manufacturers can make their products smaller, lighter and more efficient. This evolution will continue in the upcoming years and the e-bike and e-motorbike developers will merge more and more into one big market segment.”

  6. CAKE announces Deus Ex Machina as Australian distribution partner

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    Zero Emissions, High-Performance—Exciting Times for Australia.

    CAKE, the Swedish manufacturer of premium lightweight electric motorcycles, is thrilled to announce a significant new partnership with Deus Ex Machina, who will serve as CAKE’s Australian distribution partner. This partnership signifies a substantial expansion of CAKE’s distribution network, marking their strategic entry into the Australian market.

    Deus Ex Machina, a brand much larger than its motorcycle and lifestyle merchandise, thrives on a culture of creativity, inclusiveness, and enthusiasm. Their unique philosophy has won them admirers across the globe and now, through this partnership with CAKE, they are set to increase their footprint in Australia. The deal involves selling, servicing, and driving the CAKE mission forward within Australia.

    “We are thrilled that our distribution model is expanding and that we can continue to support brands in their transition towards a zero-emission society and encourage others to start their journey,” says Stefan Ytterborn, founder and CEO of CAKE. “Deus Ex Machina embodies a culture of creativity, authenticity, and enthusiasm that aligns perfectly with our ethos. It’s a natural and exciting partnership.”

    Dare Jennings, Co-founder of Deus Ex Machina, commented on the partnership: “With CAKE, we found a partner that shares our values and offers a unique, sustainable alternative for our passionate community of enthusiasts, We are excited about this opportunity to bring our uniquely customised motorcycles and the spirit of Deus to more riders in Australia.”

    CAKE is currently expanding its distribution network with premium partners in various regions, including Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Australia, South America, and Africa.

    With nearly two decades of experience customising traditional motorcycles, this partnership is a significant move into the EV market for Deus.

    “We’re incredibly excited by a new avenue for bike customisation and the promise of a more sustainable way to ride” Says: Jeremy Tagand, head bike builder at Deus’ Sydney workshop

    About Deus Ex Machina

    Deus Ex Machina, the brainchild of Mambo founder Dare Jennings and former Moon Design creative director Carby Tuckwell was established in 2006 with a focus on promoting a culture of creativity. A step bigger than a brand, Deus Ex Machina (god of the machine) has evolved into a movement, promoting a culture of creativity, inclusiveness, and enthusiasm that has resonated with people across the globe.

    About CAKE

    CAKE is a Swedish maker of premium lightweight, electric motorcycles, and mopeds, with a clear mission to inspire towards a zero-emission society, by combining excitement and responsibility. The model range currently consists of five different platforms – the off-road beast Bukk, our versatile off-roader Kalk, the modular utility bike Ösa, the urban commuter Makka, and the strong and practical e-bike Åik. Thanks to an extensive range of accessories and configurations, CAKE is addressing a wide matrix of users and applications, including commercial use for last-mile delivery and other short-haul urban transportation. Along with numerous awards and recognitions for its design and innovative approach to mobility and other societal challenges, CAKE was identified as one of the world’s most innovative companies by Fast Company in both 2020 and 2021 and received the Time Magazine 100 most important inventions award in 2021.

    Explore with respect.
    Learn more about CAKE at ridecake.com

  7. CAKE Reveals Inaugural Impact Report: A benchmark for Sustainable Commitment and Innovation

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    CAKE Impact’s Report sets transparency goals and acknowledges the absence of objective sustainability assessment in 2022.

    CAKE is more than a producer of category leading, lightweight electric motorcycles, mopeds and scooters. CAKE is a catalyst for positive industry-wide change. The brand has shared that, with immense pride and a sense of duty, they unveil their first-ever Impact Report, marking the start of consistent and transparent reporting of the company’s impact.

    Reaching out with a heartfelt message, CAKE is sharing this report as a testament to the seamless blend of commercial, philanthropic, and environmental perspectives that they uphold. It is described as an invitation to journey through their unwavering commitment towards shaping a sustainable tomorrow.

    CAKE’s Impact Report provides a look into its sustainable practices, community engagements, and the core governance principles that the company staunchly adheres to. Every segment is intended to resonate with the brand’s mission to embed sustainability not just in the products they curate but deep within their organizational DNA.

    Stefan Ytterborn, founder and CEO of CAKE, reflects, “This report isn’t solely about showcasing our initiatives; it’s a clarion call to the industry and beyond. It’s a testament to our dedication and a beacon for shared, collective responsibility.”

    In an articles sharing the report, CAKE also wrote, “We extend a warm invitation to journalists, partners, enthusiasts, and every stakeholder to immerse themselves in this report. Let it serve as both a reflection of CAKE’s ethos and a source of inspiration for sustainable pursuits everywhere.”

    Read the Impact Report here

    About CAKE

    CAKE is a Swedish maker of premium lightweight, electric motorcycles, and mopeds, with a clear mission to inspire towards a zero-emission society, by combining excitement and responsibility. The model range currently consists of five different platforms – the off-road beast Bukk, our versatile off-roader Kalk, the modular utility bike Ösa, the urban commuter Makka, and the strong and practical e-bike Åik. Thanks to an extensive range of accessories and configurations, CAKE is addressing a wide matrix of users and applications, including commercial use for last-mile delivery and other short-haul urban transportation. Along with numerous awards and recognitions for its design and innovative approach to mobility and other societal challenges, CAKE was identified as one of the world’s most innovative companies by Fast Company in both 2020 and 2021 and received the Time Magazine 100 most important inventions award in 2021.

    Explore with respect.

    Learn more about CAKE at ridecake.com

  8. Bafang promotes evolution for electric motorcycles, with new brand T&D

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    As certified innovators in the electric bicycle sector, Bafang has taken another step forward in sustainability with the launch of its electric motorcycle powertrain brand, T&D.

    Recognising the diversity of the motorcycle sector, T&D has developed complete drive systems for off-road, sports and touring motorcycles, mopeds, and indoor entertainment vehicles. Extensive R&D and confidence in the parent brand, means the new powertrains are already generating some excitement. Part of the T&D strategy is to develop meaningful and mutually beneficial associations with other like-minded organizations and brands, in a market that is accelerating at a phenomenal pace, and with a complete service solution, integrated supply chain, and impressive, targeted products, T&D is set to become a top name in the industry. Under the tagline Electric Evolution, the brand is dedicated to leading harmonious technology for a greener future.

    To stay up to date with the latest news and tech from T&D, sign up to the newsletter here.

  9. CAKE opens New York City full service showroom

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    Source: Ride Cake (2023)

    As sustainable living and e-motorcycle enthusiasm continue to increase, LEVA-EU member CAKE has opened an additional flagship store in the USA, this time New York. With the success of their first North American showroom that opened in LA in October 2022, the lightweight CAKE range is in demand.

    As more motorcycle riders are considering electric variants, CAKE’s US showrooms also offer test riding facilities and full servicing. Situated in the historic Seaport district in Manhattan, the new showroom has waterfront bike paths to test the electric motorcycle range. It additionally offers a cultural hub where current and prospective consumers can discuss the sector and the motorcycles with each other and CAKE’s team of experts.

    Founder and CEO of CAKE, Stefan Ytterborn commented, “As the cultural and economic capital of the world, New York City is one of CAKE’s most crucial markets. The city is constantly reinventing itself to make life more sustainable and accessible to its residents. As New York paves the road to a more eco-friendly future, we’re excited to grow our presence in the city and demonstrate our unique vision for a zero-emission society.”

    With plans to reduce 80% of greenhouse gases by 2050 and the expansion of North America’s largest bicycle network, New York City’s sustainability outlook reflects that of CAKE’s zero-emission objectives. CAKE go far beyond clean output strategies by additionally sourcing materials responsibly and designing long-lasting and modular products to reduce e-waste.

    North America Managing Director, Eric Asmussen, remarked, “New York is already one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world, and the city continues to move towards decarbonization. CAKE’s arrival is an opportunity to envision the radical possibilities of green infrastructure in the city. We can show the world that a carbon-neutral society doesn’t have to be boring. Just like what we do with CAKE’s products, we can combine responsibility and sustainability with innovations and excitement.”

    The CAKE:site NYC is located at 106 South Street, New York, NY 10038.
    More information on CAKE and its :sites can be found on www.ridecake.com

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