Each year, Micromobility America’s flagship event convenes in California, spotlighting the latest innovations and companies revolutionizing the electric vehicle landscape. The sister company of Micromobility Europe presented at this year’s North American convention, held in Southern California and relocated to Costa Mesa, showcasing an impressive array of nearly every type of micromobility device imaginable, including e-bikes, e-scooters, electric bicycles, and even four-wheeled neighborhood electric vehicles.
While it’s challenging to provide an exhaustive overview of every individual company currently, we have made a concerted effort to compile a comprehensive list of notable developments. See them online, or watch the video for an upfront and private expert’s perspective. Or each!
Lectric Ebikes
At the forefront of the electric bike revolution, Lectric Ebikes – the top-selling e-bike model in the US for the past five years – took center stage to showcase its continually expanding product range. At the heart of the sales space, the Lectric XPedition 2.0 electrical cargo bike made its debut, marking a significant upgrade to its predecessor’s first-generation cargo e-bike offering.
While maintaining its original $1,399 price point, the XPedition refresh comes packed with a multitude of upgrades, including an enhanced frame design, a revamped suspension fork, integrated torque sensing, improved braking performance, a vibrant color display, expanded battery capacity options, and numerous other innovative features.
Levi Conlow, CEO of the corporation, also served as a keynote speaker at the event, imparting valuable insights to a packed audience that stood in awe of his words.
VMAX Electrical Scooters
VMAX, a Swiss-based electrical scooter manufacturer, further expanded its offerings, capitalizing on its successful US expansion from last year and the establishment of its Los Angeles-based distribution hub.
The corporation recently launched most of its styles of electric scooters on the market, giving me the opportunity to test drive several of them.
The VMAX VX5, an entry-level electric scooter priced affordably at $349, surprises with its sprightly performance, effortlessly reaching its top speed of 18 mph (30 km/h). Despite lacking suspension, the scooter’s smooth ride makes its lack of shock absorption seem almost irrelevant.
I devoted additional time to testing the VX2 Excessive, also borrowing one for a few days while I was in LA – more on that experience soon – and can confidently report that the upgraded power is indeed impressive. In its highest energy mode, the 1,600W rear hub motor would occasionally lift the front wheel into a wheelie, prompting me to compensate by adding extra weight at the scooter’s entrance when accelerating – a necessity I wasn’t accustomed to, given my typical experience with weaker scooters where the throttle is essentially an on/off switch. With the VX2 Excessive, you can effectively manage the throttle like a precision variable accelerator, rather than merely flooring it and taking off. This compact scooter packs a surprising amount of energy into its gentle and agile design. Fairly spectacular for $799!
I piloted the VMAX VX4 mannequin, boasting comfortable suspension and increased velocity, albeit at the expense of added weight. While sacrificing portability yields additional efficiency, this trade-off means the device isn’t designed for extensive transportation – ideal only when you’re accustomed to carrying over 60 pounds manually; yet, it provides exceptional stability and comfort during extended periods of cruising at higher velocities.
Fly E-Bike
On my initial visit to Fly’s showroom, I had the opportunity to witness their expanded lineup of electric bicycles, which are primarily renowned as the go-to supplier in New York City for such innovative transportation solutions. With a vast network of acquired retail spaces, they have established themselves as the dominant logistics partner for a multitude of delivery companies, whose fleet of supply riders tirelessly crisscross the city, expediently delivering food and packages to residents’ doorsteps within mere minutes.
While Fly has built a reputation for its innovative electric bicycles, the company has now ventured into producing sleeker and more performance-driven seated scooters and bicycles.
I was astonished by the innovative displays at the sales area, especially given my prior experience with e-bikes featuring massive batteries designed for all-day riders and heavy-duty use.
BikeOn electrical bike conversion equipment
The BikeOn conversion equipment stands out as one of the most intricately engineered kits on the market, capable of transforming a standard pedal bike into a fully functional e-bike with remarkable ease and precision.
With lightning-quick installation of under 30 seconds, this versatile accessory effortlessly mounts to nearly any bicycle, securing its bright pink anodized gear ring onto the largest cog of a motorcycle’s rear wheel cassette. Equipped with a precise torque sensor, this e-bike’s motor efficiently converts rider input into pedal power, seamlessly engaging the rear wheel to propel forward.
The complete equipment tips the scales at a mere 3.8 pounds (1.7 kilograms), excluding the battery, and its compact motor offers two power settings: 250W and 750W, dependent on the specific market application. Is there an accompanying Android and iOS smartphone app that allows for seamless access to the equipment’s intuitive dashboard?
The battery neatly fits within a water bottle holder, adding a mere 3.3 pounds (1.5 kilograms) to the overall weight of the bike. Despite its relatively modest 250 Wh capacity, proponents claim that this battery could significantly enhance a bicycle’s range, potentially extending it by up to 20 miles.
This high-end equipment comes with a hefty price tag: $1,246 without a battery and $1,599 with one included. Consider investing in high-quality, fully electric bicycles, as they would likely justify such an investment; nonetheless, it’s unlikely this equipment was intended for personal use. Here’s an improved version: As a versatile solution, this substitute enables cyclists to seamlessly adapt their own cherished bicycles, especially high-end models that deserve to be treated with care, by allowing them to easily integrate lightweight accessories without compromising the ride’s integrity or aesthetics.
Oh Wow Cycles
Oh Wow Cycles boasts an impressive collection of cutting-edge, stylish electric bicycles that truly stand out. These companies’ electric tricycles truly defy gravity with their extraordinary performance. While they’ve also acquired additional regular two-wheeled e-bikes, it’s the rickshaws that truly draw attention to themselves. As I entered the showroom, the imposing size of these people-movers instantly captivated my attention.
Introducing the Conductor Plus, a game-changing e-bike that redefines transportation comfort with its spacious interior, capable of accommodating multiple children and adults in the rear. With its innovative design, this electric tricycle seamlessly converts its bench seat into an extended bed, perfect for hauling cargo or accommodating furry friends.
Unlike some trikes that demand manual adjustments to switch between passenger and cargo modes, this e-trike seamlessly transforms within two seconds without requiring any tools or expertise.
For those considering extended adventures or utilising the e-bike as a means of transporting goods commercially, the option to upgrade to twin batteries offers a practical and convenient solution.
As I had the unique privilege of interacting with Ash Soliman, the visionary founder, I was granted an exclusive tour of the cutting-edge designs at the company’s booth. The enthusiasm Ash exhibits when discussing e-bikes is palpable, highlighting their versatility in various applications, including household transportation, cargo management, and beyond.
If you seek heavy-lifting abilities that surpass those of a typical e-bike or cargo bike, consider the following exceptional options that boast impressive hauling capacity.
Tempo e-bike insurance coverage
Experiencing the theft of your electric bike leaves you with a sense of utter despair. I’ve been there. A number of occasions. The theft of an e-bike is not only a personal intrusion but also leaves the victim facing a substantial financial setback, as these bicycles often have price tags exceeding $1,000.
Introducing Tempo, a pioneering electrical bike theft insurance programme that perfectly captures the needs of cyclists seeking peace of mind against the growing menace of bike thefts.
Michael Keating, the corporate’s founder, took the time to explain the system’s inner workings to me. For just US$199, you’ll receive not only the initial purchase but also three years of comprehensive theft protection at a daily rate of approximately $5.50. Safety lies in proactive efforts to recover stolen bicycles through collaborative initiatives with local bike registries and law enforcement agencies. Riders who are part of the membership programme receive a unique registration stamp on a set quantity of tamper-evident anti-theft stickers, warning potential thieves about the programme’s energetic restoration efforts.
When a motorcycle is stolen, Tempo employs its extensive resources and industry connections to facilitate its recovery. If they won’t get my bike back, I risk standing to lose up to $2,500 with Tempo to replace it. If you’re riding one of the many sub-$2,500 electrical bikes popular in the US, this is an attractive offer. If you’re fortunate enough to own a $10,000 S-Works e-bike, you may need to seek out a specialized insurance coverage program to ensure your investment is properly protected.
Hyryd hydrogen-powered e-bikes
At Micromobility Europe 2024, I had a first glimpse of Hyryd’s innovative hydrogen-powered electric bicycles, and the company has since solidified its presence in the US by showcasing its expertise at Micromobility America 2024.
Unlike most e-bikes on the market, Hyryd’s innovative design doesn’t rely on bulky batteries; instead, it employs a compact hydrogen tank and gas cell combination to produce electrical energy that drives the rear-wheel motor seamlessly.
While the bikes are tailored for the European market, their unique energy profile differs from what Americans are accustomed to, making them an intriguing sight when in motion.
I’m unconvinced that e-bikes are the future, and to be frank, I’m quite sure they’re not. While the concept of decentralized electrolysis might seem intriguing initially, perhaps we could revisit it when the time comes for scaling up industrial fleets or peer-to-peer sharing initiatives that require on-site hydrogen refueling?
E-Cuffs scooter lock
I was unexpectedly struck by the novelty of these innovative E-Cuffs scooter locks, featuring a distinctive handcuff design.
The sleek design of their device features a rapid-release mechanism, enabling users to securely attach it to the scooter’s stem for everyday convenience, before swiftly detaching and locking onto various objects with ease.
Scooters often pose a challenge when securing a bike lock, as they typically lack the triangular shape found on many e-bikes, making it difficult to safely attach a lock to their bodies. With the E-Cuffs, an e-scooter’s stem or downtube can be securely fastened to a fixed object using this innovative locking system.
Joyride Revii
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Joyride has been showcased on multiple occasions, highlighting its innovative platform designed to simplify fleet management for both startup and established companies, enabling them to operate smart-connected micromobility vehicles with ease. Are you ready to launch your own unique e-scooter business venture inspired by Bird’s innovative concept? Enjoy a seamless experience with Joyride’s intuitive platform, allowing you to easily operate and manage your entire fleet of digitally connected scooters from the comfort of your own home.
The corporation is unveiling its innovative platform, Revii, designed specifically for larger micromobility vehicles, such as minimobility, golf carts, Low-Speed Vehicles (LSVs), and other Neighborhood Electric Vehicles (NEVs).
The app simplifies the management of car fleets at resorts, conference facilities, and similar operators, mirroring Joyride’s micromobility functionality with ease of use.
As Revii’s platform becomes increasingly relevant in response to the proliferation of alternative mobility options that are replacing traditional cars, its relevance may expand exponentially across various sectors, including rental, shared, and industrial applications, further solidifying its position in the market.
Ryvid electrical bikes
Electric bicycles played a significant role in the event, with Ryvid offering test rides on its domestically manufactured Anthem and Outset e-bikes.
Ryvid’s innovative battery design allows homeowners to detach the battery from their electric bikes, allowing them to easily store it in their garage, home, or another secure location for charging via a standard wall outlet. With modern elevators, you can effortlessly ascend to lofty heights in a high-rise building.
The Anthem features several innovative options, including its actuator-controlled adjustable seat system, allowing riders to elevate or lower their seat by up to 4 inches (100 mm) while still in motion.
The outset of this construct is grounded in a similar physical presence, yet absent is the activating mechanism. Designed with off-road enthusiasts in mind, this bike’s construction is reminiscent of a dual-sport model, allowing riders to feel more comfortable and confident when venturing away from paved paths. Below $6,000, this model is incredibly competitively priced – and when you consider the Anthem’s $6,495 value, it becomes even more alluring.
Each bike is capable of reaching freeway speeds in the 70s mph, and can achieve metropolitan ranges of up to 70 miles, although freeway commuting typically reduces that range.
I further seized the opportunity to try the latest Anthem on its start, stealthily extracting it from current premises for a brief exploration. At the outset, I evaluated the e-bike that came equipped with Ryvid’s advanced ASI controller, boasting significant energy boosts for riders seeking enhanced efficiency.
While these electric bikes boast impressive design, it’s essential to note that they’re optimized for local riding conditions primarily. Although equipped with a 4 kWh battery, these vehicles are generally not designed for extended touring or long-distance travel. For those commuting 20 miles to work seeking an enjoyable, affordable, and eco-friendly electric vehicle to transform their daily grind into a thrilling ride, this is undoubtedly the way forward!
Land Moto
Land Moto prides itself on its US-manufactured commuter-grade electric bicycles, distinguished by their unique design aesthetic. As I witnessed Land Moto’s bikes for the first time, individually, they were undoubtedly attention-grabbing head-turners.
Here: The Land Moto District starts at an affordable $6,995, offering two variants – road and dust – that both boast a top speed of 70 mph (112 km/h).
The company claims a maximum range of 120 miles (193 km), achievable only when equipped with the largest battery option, boasting 4.8 kWh of capacity. The base model features an 1.8 kWh battery capable of delivering an estimated 40 miles (64 km) of range, assuming city driving at slower speeds.
The ability to customize battery capacity and its effect on pricing empowers riders to select their desired level of power, an unusual attribute in this industry.
Shandoka’s innovative electrical bike conversion system transforms your trusty traditional bicycle into a high-performance e-bike, seamlessly merging the best of both worlds.
This one is completely fascinating. Shandoka is a pioneering company in the field of electric bike conversions, boasting a patented technology capable of adapting to a wide range of standard bicycles. The innovative system boasts a battery and controller configuration seamlessly integrated within the vehicle’s body, diverging from traditional combustion engines, and a state-of-the-art rear hub motor effectively replacing the erstwhile rear wheel.
This innovative technology allows individuals to revitalize vintage motorcycles, especially those plagued by engine troubles, yet still boasting sturdy frames and components that can be easily refurbished and returned to their former glory with a new powertrain.
Given that many of these bicycles were originally manufactured in the 1980s, they are frequently exempt from newer regulations due to their age, thereby simplifying the process of converting them accordingly.
The motorcycles showcased on camera reveal their underlying engineering, showcasing the meticulous attention to detail in their design; yet, they can equally be rewrapped with custom-built body panels to give rise to one-of-a-kind creations that reflect each builder’s unique artistic vision.
Ernest Eich’s brainchild, a labor of love, takes shape at his company’s North Carolina facility, highlighting another example of US-based manufacturing prowess in the e-bike and component sectors.
I recently discussed the current situation with Ernest, and it’s clear that further investigation into his company is warranted.
There’s always more to discover.
While this compilation cannot cover everything currently available, it presents a curated selection of the most notable and innovative examples of micromobility in all its diverse forms?
As the business continues to evolve and mature, having navigated a tumultuous journey marked by peaks and troughs since the onset of the pandemic era, we expect to see even more innovative and captivating developments in the future.
Stay tuned for in-depth explorations of these companies as we uncover the unique characteristics that set their quiet electric vehicles and innovative manufacturing processes apart from the rest.
