It’s issue #1 of the Commuter Volt e-commuter news roundup. Find deals and updates below. Subscribe for more news from the electric commuting industry… it’s free!
E-Commuter Deals from the Wild
40% Off Co-op Cycles @ REI
Get a 40% discount on Co-op Cycles exclusively at REI. The e1.1 model, originally priced at $1,499, is now available for just $898, while the e1.2 model has dropped from $1,899 to $1,138. Click to buy and take advantage of these great savings. REI is among our partners for electric bikes and accessories.
Legal News & Gossip
This is just the news. Form your own opinions.
Brooklyn E-bike Shop Owner Charged Over Unsafe Lithium-Ion Battery Practices
Tian Liang Liu, the proprietor of Electric Bicycle Shop in Brooklyn, was recently arrested under New York’s strict battery safety regulations. The arrest followed multiple failed inspections at his shop, which revealed improper storage and charging of lithium-ion batteries, uncertified e-bikes, and poorly handled propane cylinders, heightening the risk of fire in a building with residential units above.
US Bike Industry to Create Comprehensive Legal E-bike Database
The National Bicycle Dealers Association is set to expand its e-bike database initiative to include more comprehensive data on certified and insured e-bikes across the US. This initiative aims to enhance retailer, consumer, and incentive program access to reliable e-bike information, ensuring safety and compliance within the industry.
CapMetro Pulls Some E-Bikes Following Theft and Battery Issues
CapMetro in Austin has decided to temporarily withdraw a portion of its electric bikes due to escalating incidents of theft and recurring battery failures. This move aims to ensure rider safety and maintain service integrity as they assess and address the challenges. The organization is exploring enhancements in bike security and battery systems to prevent future disruptions.
Bird Scooters and E-Bikes Set to Return to Green Bay in 2024
Green Bay is set to welcome back Bird scooters and electric bikes in 2024, following a city council decision. The reintroduction supports the city’s push towards expanding environmentally friendly transportation options. Adjustments to service areas and usage rules are part of the plan to integrate these micro-mobility vehicles effectively into the city’s transit framework.
Read more at Green Bay Press Gazette
Industry Updates & Product Releases
DYU Receives $100 Million in Series A Funding
Chinese e-bike manufacturer DYU Intelligent Mobility has secured a substantial $100 million in Series A funding, positioning the company for significant expansions in product development, staffing, marketing, and supply chain efficiencies. Founded in 2016, DYU has shown remarkable growth, shipping half a million units annually worldwide, with a strong presence in offline retail markets such as Costco.
Read more at Electric Bike Report
Pedego Unveils Innovative E-Bike Models for 2024
Pedego has introduced three unique e-bikes to its lineup: an e-moped, a cargo e-bike, and a fat tire trike, each priced under $4000. These models aim to expand Pedego’s market presence with advanced features like UL-certified batteries and robust motors, providing substantial range and power. The diverse offerings are designed to meet varying consumer needs, from urban commuting to cargo hauling.
Read more at Electric Bike Report
Bosch eBike Flow App Update Enhances Battery Functionality
Bosch’s latest eBike Flow App update, version 1.20, significantly enhances its DualBattery functionality. Now, users can combine any compatible batteries, greatly increasing ride range. This update, pivotal for navigation improvements, supports dynamic route recalculations during deviations. Note, the update is only compatible with newer Apple devices (iPhone 8 and above running iOS 16 or higher).
Hexlox Introduces Anti-Theft Wheel Nut for E-bikes with Rear Hub Motors
German security company Hexlox has launched a new anti-theft wheel nut designed for e-bikes with rear hub motors, targeting brands like Mahle, Bafang, and Zehus. Priced at €52, the Hexnut M12 aims to deter wheel theft with its innovative design featuring an anti-spin ring and a special locking mechanism requiring a Hexlox tool for removal, enhancing e-bike security.
From Across the Pond
Bristol Business Owner Accused of Holding E-bikes “To Ransom”
Stewart Burrough, owner of a self-storage in Bristol, faces accusations of “holding e-bikes to ransom” after a miscommunication led Tier Mobility to mistakenly use his property as an e-bike station. Despite attempts to resolve the issue, the e-bikes remained on his property, leading Burrough to store them and charge Tier for storage fees. The situation escalated with police involvement, highlighting issues of property use and corporate communication errors.
The Other Pond…
Electric Scooter Accidents Spike in Japan Following Eased Regulations
Electric scooter-related accidents have risen sharply in Japan, coinciding with a change in regulations allowing riders without a driver’s license. Recent data indicate a sixfold increase in monthly accidents since the amendment took effect in July. This surge includes significant injuries and underscores the growing popularity of scooters despite low public awareness of the associated rules. Traffic experts are pushing for enhanced road safety education, especially among the youth, to address the rising mishap rates and ensure pedestrian safety.
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