Stromer and Klever sponsor German study highlighting strong potential for speed pedelecs
Comments Off on Stromer and Klever sponsor German study highlighting strong potential for speed pedelecsSource: Bike Europe
LEVA-EU members myStromer and Klever were among the brands sponsoring research conducted by the RheinMain University of Applied Sciences and Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences on speed pedelecs replacing car travel for medium-length commutes.
The comprehensive research project conducted in southern Germany demonstrated the significant potential of speed-pedelecs as a viable alternative to car transportation, however it also revealed regulatory and infrastructural barriers that continue to limit their adoption.
The study, conducted by researchers from RheinMain University of Applied Sciences and Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences, was sponsored by Allianz Zukunft S-Pedelec, a coalition of speed pedelec manufacturers including myStromer and Klever Mobility.
The project, which ran from 2023 to 2024 in the Tübingen region of Germany, set out to assess how speed-pedelecs (electric bikes that are capable of reaching speeds up to 45 km/h) could function as sustainable and practical alternative to cars in everyday life.
Real-world testing of urban and suburban commutes
Fifty participants were each given access to speed-pedelecs supplied by the members of Allianz Zukunft S-Pedelec. They used the vehicles for commuting and daily tasks for approximately six weeks, submitting feedback through online surveys.
While Tübingen’s progressive cycling infrastructure allowed for a relatively accommodating testing ground, the findings highlighted existing infrastructural inconsistencies, particularly in suburban and rural areas.
Participants reported using designated cycle paths about 75% of the time, yet often encountered confusing intersections, fragmented infrastructure, and situations where they were forced onto roads due to restrictions on speed-pedelec use on certain cycle paths.
On 18% of the riding days, participants encountered situations they considered risky. Of those, 58% were attributed to interactions with car traffic, with inadequate infrastructure cited as a key cause.
Manufacturers call for policy reform in Germany
Current German regulations classify speed-pedelecs as mopeds, restricting them from most bicycle paths. Industry stakeholders argue that these outdated classifications are stifling the technology’s potential.
myStromer’s communications manager Anja Knaus emphasises that the study confirms that speed-pedelecs should be safely integrated into cycling infrastructure as in other countries. “In Switzerland, where the regulatory framework is speed-pedelec-friendly, speed-pedelecs account for 20-25% of the e-bike market,” Knaus said. “The potential in Germany is substantial – but currently remains untapped by the bike industry due to regulatory constraints.”
The majority of study participants also supported this shift: 60% believed speed-pedelec riders should have the option to choose between roadways and cycle paths within urban settings.
Travel patterns and usage behaviour
The trial revealed that access to speed-pedelecs significantly altered travel behaviour. Participants averaged 15–17 km per trip, primarily for commuting, but also for errands and shopping. Notably, 92% used the bikes for work-related travel, with 31% of rides being trips that otherwise wouldn’t have occurred by bicycle.
Key motivators for usage included the ability to save time, cover greater distances, and manage hilly terrain, which are all areas where traditional bicycles fall short.
While the study did not publish average speeds, there was a general consensus in favour of a 30 km/h limit in urban areas. Outside of town, opinions were split on whether speed limits should apply.
Wider adoption challenges
Despite positive feedback, cost remains the most significant barrier to ownership. With prices ranging from €4,500 to €9,000, many respondents said they could not justify the expense, particularly given current restrictions on where the vehicles can be used.
Other drawbacks included weight (typically 28–33 kg) and long charging times, although these were mentioned less frequently than legal and infrastructure-related concerns.
Key takeaways from the study about encouraging speed pedelec usage
The research supports the idea that speed-pedelecs can fill a crucial gap in urban mobility transition, particularly for medium-distance travel, which is often too long for conventional cycling but inefficient or environmentally unsound by car.
As Germany continues to wrestle with the challenges of decarbonising its transport sector, industry stakeholders argue that legislative reform is urgently needed if speed-pedelecs are to become a viable component of future mobility strategies.







