Ebike sales outstrip Electric and Plug-in Hybrid cars in the USA

Source: Electrek

It is well established that the coronavirus pandemic has spurred increased ebike sales around the world. People are looking not only for more socially distanced ways to get around, but are also seeking healthier transport alternatives. With rising concern for our environment, ebikes are more appealing than ever.

The numbers released by the Light Electric Vehicle Association in the USA, vividly reflect the rising interest in electric bikes. Despite supply chain and logistic challenges, the USA recorded 790,000 electric bike imports in 2021, a substantial 70% increase on the 463,000 imports in 2020.

By comparison, sales of electric cars and plug-in hybrids came to 652,000 units in 2021, according to BloombergNEF.

While it is an extremely promising trend, it is worth noting that ebike adoption figures in Europe have outpaced cars for a few years now, and indeed are on track to overtake sales of all cars. Estimated sales for ebikes in Europe are around 3 million units, while in Asia it is more like 35 million.

There are many benefits that come from increasing ebike use, be it individual fitness, mental health, fuel cost savings, reduced carbon footprint, less air and noise pollution and so on. But the same can be said for non-electric bicycle use. Yet sales of traditional bikes have not seen anything like the same kind of growth. It is reasoned that this is down to the increased comfort gained from electric assist, meaning that you can still enjoy the positive impact on your wellbeing, without arriving sweaty or worn out. Ebikes are taking off for leisure purposes too, allowing people to go further and faster in the pursuit of fun.