October 14, 2021

  • micromobility expo 22 is open for speakers превод на български
     

    Held in Hannover between 19-21 May 2022, the micromobility expo stands for micromobility in urban areas and is the central contact point for knowledge transfer and exchange of experience. 

    Expo organisers have put out the call for expert speakers to share their insight and knowledge to guests, with the deadline for interested speakers to register topics being 7 November 2021. A panel of qualified judges will review and decide which speakers shall be added to the schedule. Chosen speakers will receive free expo entry for themselves and a number of guests

    The comprehensive conference program presents products and concrete solutions for micromobility in urban areas, as well as a platform for knowledge transfer and experience exchange. At its core is the pursuit and development of socially and ecologically just mobility. The expo seeks to bring together relevant experts and professionals and generate solutions to the challenges of tomorrow’s mobility, and does so via a three day program of lectures, panel discussions, project presentations and opportunities to try out the latest products in the industry.

    Florian Eisenbach, project manager at organizer, Deutsche Messe, elaborated on the conference: “The mobility turnaround in urban areas will only succeed through the interaction of industry, science, public administration and politics. With the conference, we are creating a platform for this exchange, in which we take all perspectives into account. In this way, we are providing additional impetus”.

    Speakers from various fields are welcome, such as science, research and universities, students as well as business, industry, production and sales, and can apply on the following topics, in any format:

    Mobility of the future

    Potentials and resources: Micromobility as a building block of sustainable, socially just mobility.

    • Micromobility & Climate Protection
    • Mobility culture, ethics & trends
    • Political & legal framework

    Urban-spatial development

    Micromobility and urban development: mobile quality of stay and quality of life

    • Mobility planning & transport infrastructure
    • Urban mobility concepts & neighborhood development
    • Virtual mobility

    Urban & intra-urban logistics

    The still unknown side of micromobility: Applications and innovation

    • Urban-Rural
    • Green Logistics
    • Robotics

    Safety & Security

    Personal integrity and safety in road and traffic areas

    • Traffic safety
    • Driving Safety
    • Insurances

    Multi- and Intermodality

    Integrative solutions and systems

    • Infrastructure solutions
    • Public transport & last mile – commuter traffic
    • Sharing systems

    Free Agers

    Users at the Center Micromobility for all

    • Design
    • Handling & Functionality
    • Access & Acceptance

    Interested exhibitors may also note that an early booking discount is available until November 15, 2021

    Source: https://www.micromobilityexpo.de/en/press/press-releases/micromobility-expo/press-release_1217

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October 13, 2021

  • Riese & Müller issues immediate recall and ride stop of Packster 70 превод на български
     

    On October 8th 2021, Riese & Müller issued an urgent recall of the Packster 70 model and have also advised an immediate ride stop for the sake of customer safety.

    The recall affects “all models that have been delivered since the start of delivery and up to and including October 06, 2021”, and production and delivery have been completely halted. The recall notice extends to all Packster 70 bikes, and is due to a technical problem with the cable steering, which has the potential to severely impact steering. The brand has confirmed that the Packster 60 and Packster 80 are not affected by this issue nor included in the recall.

    Markus Riese, founder and managing director of Riese & Müller stated, “We are aware that for many of our customers the Packster 70 determines their everyday mobility and is a substitute for a car, which will now be discontinued overnight. We regret this measure all the more. We ask however for understanding that we must act as responsible enterprise in such a way “.

    Riese & Müller will be contacting known owners with information and next steps relating to the recall, with the recall page explaining:

    “Owners who are already registered on the Riese & Müller My Bike service platform will be proactively informed. Non-registered customers are asked to register here or send an email to recall@r-m.de with frame number, address and phone number.

    Riese & Müller expressly apologizes to all dealers and customers for any inconvenience caused.”

    Source: https://www.r-m.de/en-au/enterprise/press/press-releases/recall-and-immediate-ride-stop-packster-70-model/

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October 12, 2021

  • Flash Drive: 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E GT and GT Performance превод на български
     

    More Power Raises Performance For The All-electric SUV

    Clean Fleet Report has previously reviewed the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E, and our opinion is Ford has a winner with this all-electric SUV. To make things even more interesting, Ford has just released the 2021 Mustang Mach-E GT and GT Performance models that deliver more performance with increased speed and handling.

    The GT and GT Performance will join the five Mustang Mach-E trim levels of Select, Premium, First Edition and California Route 1. The First Edition is sold out, but the GT and GT Performance hit dealers in the fall 2021.

    2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E GT
    Not so mellow yellow

    Power, Smooth Silent Power

    There are three driver-selectable drive modes of Whisper (Eco), Engage (Medium) or Unbridled (Sport) with each giving a different driving experience. While rear-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive (AWD) an option on the base Mach-E, the GT and GT Performance are AWD all-the-time. So, what will you get on the GT and GT Performance? How about two electric motors, one each for the front and rear wheels, with the front motor upgraded for increased performance. The GT Performance gets one more tool for spirited driving, the driver-selectable Unbridled Extend, which is designed for track use, which we tested on an autocross course.

    2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E GT
    Putting the fast in fast-back

    The performance numbers are impressive. The Mach-E GT and GT performance have the same 480 horsepower (hp), with the GT getting 600 pound-feet of torque (lb.-ft.) and the GT Performance 634 lb.-ft. of torque. The 0 – 60 times of 3.8 seconds for the GT, and 3.5 seconds for the GT Performance, are plenty fast for a SUV and will satisfy all driving needs.

    The Mach-E has one-pedal driving, where lifting off the accelerator pedal slows and eventually brings it to a stop. Ford’s system has no steering wheel-mounted paddles to apply motor braking, and since the driver cannot adjust the amount of braking, the computer gets to do the work. With the same amount of applied braking, regardless of which drive mode you are in, the one pedal driving learning curve was quick and, except for the fastest of corners driving through the California mountains of Marin County on a recent Ford media drive event, I rarely used the brake pedal to apply the 19-inch vented discs and their bright red Brembo calipers (standard on the GT Performance model).

    The all-electric driving range is estimated to be 270 miles for the GT, and 260 miles for the GT Performance. For comparison, the base Mach-E with rear-wheel drive and equipped with the extended range battery is rated with a 305-mile all-electric driving range. If the extra 30 or so miles of range is more important than the extra performance, you may consider going with the base Mach-E. Either choice will not be wrong.

    Hitting the Road

    2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E GT
    Upping the tech

    Our Marin County Mach-E GT and GT Performance test drives took us from Sausalito to Olema, then along the coastal mountains to the quaint town of Stinson Beach. We returned to base by driving over Mt. Tamalpais, through Mill Valley and then Sausalito. This route was an excellent showcase as it had city streets with traffic lights, wide open country roads, and several miles on the iconic California 101 at 70 miles per hour.

    When on the highway we had the opportunity to engage the Blue Cruise intelligent and adaptive hands-free driving system. Blue Cruise is not autonomous driving, but allows for driver assistance when the conditions are right. Ford tested Blue Cruise on more than 100,000 miles of divided highway across North America. Their system utilizes a combination of road sensors and cameras that track the driver’s head movements and eyes, even when wearing sunglasses. When Blue Cruise senses a lack of attention to the road, warnings tell the driver to refocus and take control of the Mach-E. Like other systems of this type, Blue Cruise centers the Mach-E between lane lines and can bring the SUV to a complete stop, and then accelerate again, when in stop-and-go traffic. Automating these tasks can be helpful when behind the wheel.

    Performance

    The first thing you notice with either the GT or GT Performance is the rush of acceleration. In the GT Performance I would occasionally switch into Unbridled Extend at all times. In the GT Performance I would occasionally switch into Unbridled Extend, which used more electricity, but heck, I was there to drive the Mach-E to reasonable

    2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E GT
    A variety of great choices

    extremes to report on its fun factor capabilities. And, does it ever have lots and lots of fun factor built in! What was learned is the Mach-E has instant, linear throttle response with all that wonderful torque available at any speed. The acceleration at times was so powerful that pedal modulation was necessary to not be exceeding the country road speed limit times four.

    The ride was smooth and quiet as the 245/45 20-inch tires (Continental all-season for the GT, and Pirelli summer for the GT Performance) and Macpherson front and independent rear suspension handled pretty much anything we threw at it. The 4,587 pounds was noticeable, but this was a good thing as the weight balance, with the batteries placed low under the floor, feels neutral, making for consistent and predictable cornering.

    Longer, higher speed sweepers had the Mach-E planted to the road with very little need to adjust the electric-assisted steering on double apex or decreasing radius corners. On tighter turns, the harder the acceleration, the more the AWD sucked the GT and GT Performance into the corner. Optional on the GT but standard on the GT Performance is Ford’s MagneRide suspension, which is found on the gas-powered Mustang GT coupe. MagneRide is an active suspension system that utilizes an electromagnet within the shock absorber to increase the viscosity of the shock fluid, which increases the damping of the absorber. It all happens seamlessly and instantly, with the end result a sure-footed driving experience.

    Mach-E: In and Out

    Ford designed the Mach-E interior to be a familiar place for car buyers, not a futuristic cockpit.

    The interior design is sleek, modern and uncluttered. The seats were supportive and comfortable, with the steering wheel having a good thickness to it. The center armrest is deep for storing purses and bags, and the panoramic sunroof is large, opening the cabin for front and rear seat occupants. The horizontal 10.2-inch digital gauge cluster provides the most important operational information. There is no head-up display on the Mach-E.

    2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E GT
    Room for 3, but 2 is more comfortable

    Mach-E has room for five, but three full-size adults in the rear is not advised for a trip of any distance. With the rear seat folded, cargo space is 59.7 cubic feet, but that isn’t the only place to store stuff. Under the hood is a “frunk” that can hold a carry-on sized bag. For versatility, the frunk has been cleverly designed with a drain so it can hold wet or dirty items, or even be packed with ice for beverages, and then cleaned out.

    The distinctive Mustang exterior design heritage continues onto the Mach-E, including a long hood and the three LED tail lights that look oh-so classic Mustang. LED headlights and daytime running lamps frame the faux grille that sports the Mustang pony badge. The GT and GT Performance get the machined finished wheels, with the GT Performance getting a front splitter and a rear diffuser. The sleek, smooth Mach-E is nearly devoid of badging, save for the nose, tailgate and the lower front doors.

    Technology

    The 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E is available with the updated and improved advanced driver assist technology (ADAS) of Co-Pilot360 2.0, which has features that help make driving safer and more confident. These include automatic emergency braking, blind spot and active lane control monitoring, post impact braking and evasive steering assist plus adaptive cruise control.

    2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E GT
    A big tablet for control

    FordPass Connect is standard, offering a 4G LTE Wi-Fi that can handle mobile devises and allows for over the air software updates. This is also where electric charging can be managed, including charging and payment, through the Blue Oval Charge Network, the largest such network in North America with more than 19,500 charging stations.

    Ford’s proprietary 15.5-inch, vertical touchscreen handles the next generation Sync 4 connectivity system that includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Ford+Alexa and Waze navigation. The Sync 4 system has been simplified so now everything is no more than two touches away. If you really want to go big, the optional 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen Premium audio system should be worth the investment as the cabin on the Mach-E is quiet.

    Price, Timing and Warranty

    The all-new, all-electric 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E GT has a base price of $61,095, and the GT Performance is $66,095. All pricing includes the $1,195 destination and delivery fee.  Federal and state tax credits could reduce your final price, and in some states it will qualify for a HOV sticker.

    Both the Mustang Mach-E GT and Mach-E GT Performance should be in dealers in the fourth quarter 2021.

    All 2021 Mustang Mach-E models come with these warranties:

    • Bumper-To-Bumper – Three years/36,000 miles
    • Battery – Eight years/ 100,000 miles

    Observations: 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E GT/Mach-E GT Performance

    With three Mustang Mach-E options for fun, fun, fun, Ford gives drivers every opportunity to express themselves. Whether it’s the base Mach-E or the top-line Mach-E GT or Mach-E GT Performance, the all-electric ownership experience provided by Ford is one to grab.

    2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E GT
    Looking forward to more time in this one

    The pinned-in-your-seat acceleration is only the beginning of owning the all-new 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E as its practicality as an everyday driver comes through very quickly. With ample passenger and cargo space, interior comfort features, and a smooth and quiet ride, the Mach-E is sure to replace many a gasoline-powered crossover SUV in garages everywhere.

    Mustang aficionados comment how the Mach-E really isn’t a Mustang. We heard the same thing about the Porsche Cayenne SUV, launched in 2003, that it didn’t look like a 911. The Cayenne is now Porsche’s top-selling vehicle. The Mach-E will easily become the top-selling Mustang; it’s already out-selling the gas Mustang.

    There is so much to talk about on the Mach-E, we cannot cover it all here in this Flash Drive review. Clean Fleet Report will do a thorough Road Test of the 2021 Mustang Mach-E GT and GT Performance in the coming months. Until then, contact your local Ford dealer and set an appointment to check-out any of the Mach-E models.

    Make sure to opt-in to the Clean Fleet Report newsletter (top right of page) to be notified of all new stories and vehicle reviews.

    Story by John Faulkner. Photos by John Faulkner, Clean Fleet Report and Ford.

    [See image gallery at cleanfleetreport.com] Our Other Mach-E Encounters

    First Timer: 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E

    Road Trip: 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E

    Road Test: 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E

    Flash Drive: 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E

    News: 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E

     

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October 11, 2021

  • Centre for London report lauds shared e-scooters and advises regulations needed превод на български
     

    A recent report recommends that the use of private and shared e-scooters be legalised, hand in hand with the introduction of thorough and practical safety measures.

    With shared e-scooters having been in a trial phase in the UK capital for over four months now, Centre for London, a dedicated think tank focused on developing new solutions to London’s critical challenges, has released a report looking at how micromobility vehicles such as e-scooters and e-bikes could help to reduce car use, cut carbon emissions, and improve air quality in the capital. 

    Key findings state that:

    “Two thirds of car trips in London could be made by micromobility vehicles in 20 minutes or less, with most of these trips taking place in outer London where there are fewer public transport options.”

    and

    “Micromobility vehicles emit between 34 and 90 per cent (shared e-scooter vs private bike) fewer carbon emissions than private cars, and do not produce harmful pollutants at the point of use.”

    Some measures put forward included giving powers to Transport for London to manage shared e-scooter schemes within the city, making sure all vehicles meet minimum safety standards, and making it a requirement for shared scheme providers to locate schemes in neighbourhoods with fewer public transport options. The government can also support lower-income and ethnic minority groups in making e-scooters more accessible through tax incentives and loans.

    The report calls specifically on the government to enact these changes, and outlines how improvements are needed, for instance in streamlining the riding and parking experience, and in ensuring more joined-up services across regions. Operators too can raise their game, in areas such as pricing, delivery of training, vehicle safety measures and more.

    Josh Cottell, Research Manager, Centre for London said:

    “Legalising private ownership and riding is the first step towards building a gold standard for micromobility in the UK, with Transport for London – and other equivalent authorities in towns and cities across the country given the powers to arrange shared schemes for micromobility vehicles as they emerge.”

    Read more: https://www.centreforlondon.org/news/legalising-escooters-cut-car-use/

    Download the full report here: https://www.centreforlondon.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Micromobility_in_London_Report.pdf

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  • Dutch LEV framework: e-(cargo) bicycles, e-scooters & self-balancing vehicles pay the price превод на български
     

    LEVA-EU has consulted with the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Water about their planned LEV framework. A week earlier, LEVA-EU had argued extensively in a position that this proposal contravenes European law. The Ministry could not really convince LEVA-EU of the contrary. Worse still, the LEV framework appears to be a response to a report that completely misses the point.


    The proposal for the so-called Dutch LEV framework includes specific Dutch technical and usage requirements for e-scooters, self-balancing vehicles with handlebars and e-(cargo) cycles. LEVA-EU contests the additional technical requirements, which have nothing to do with road use. These requirements are in addition to the technical requirements that legally result from the European Machinery, EMC and RoHS Directives. The result will be that manufacturers will have to make specifically Dutch vehicles. LEVA-EU argues that this goes against the Machinery Directive, Directive 2015/1535 and against the principles of the single market and the free movement of goods.

    The Dutch Ministry stated that the LEV framework is a direct consequence of the report of the Dutch Safety Board after the accident with the Stint in 2018. That accident prompted the Board to investigate “the way in which light motorized vehicles, including the Stint, come on the road”.

    It already went completely wrong when the research objective and the research questions were formulated: “The statutory task of the Dutch Safety Board is to find out the (underlying) causes of an accident, so that measures can be taken to prevent these causes from recurring and causing another accident.” Neither the Board nor anyone else has been able to determine the cause of the Stint accident. On 10 July 2020, 8 months after the publication of the Report, the Public Prosecution Service announced that the investigation had been completed and no definitive cause of the accident could be determined.

    Nevertheless, the Board based its investigation on the premise that the Stint was technically unsafe and that this unsafety caused the accident. On the other hand, in the report the Board has not provided a well-founded answer to the two research questions that they themselves formulated: “What role does safety play in the admission of light motorized vehicles that do not fall under the European approval procedure?” and “To what extent does that guarantee the safety of these vehicles on public roads?

    In its investigation, the Board overlooked the fact that the safety of light motorized vehicles, which are not covered by Regulation 168/2013, is guaranteed by the Machinery, EMC and RoHS Directives, which list extensive safety requirements. These have been translated into EN 15194 and EN 17128 and are currently also being converted into European standards for electric cargocycles. Consequently, the second research question has been answered completely incorrectly. The Board has assessed the assurance of the safety of the vehicles on the basis of the additional Dutch procedure. The actual safety requirements that apply in all European member states have been left aside in the assessment. And so it happened that in their recommendations the Board clearly demonstrated their lack of knowledge of relevant European legislation. The first recommendation is: “Perform an integral risk assessment on the different types of light motor vehicles.” Let that risk assessment be one of the central requirements of the Machinery Directive.

    In the report, the Board systematically ignores European legislation. On page 21 they write: “A vehicle is illegal on the road if it has not been allowed on the road through an approval procedure and does not fall into a category exempt from approval.” All light motorized vehicles that the Board is targeting are exempt from approval: e-(cargo)cycles according to Article 2.2.h in Regulation 168/2013, e-scooters and electric skateboards according to Article 2.2.j, self-balancing vehicles with or without steering wheel according to Article 2.2.i. Article 6.1 of the Machinery Directive states: “Member States shall not prohibit, restrict or impede the placing on the market and/or putting into service in their territory of machinery which complies with this Directive.” We believe that the Dutch approval procedure is in breach of this article.

    The Board came to the devastating conclusion that the Dutch government had been far too lax in approving and admitting vehicles such as the Stint. That conclusion was not based on the finding of objective and structural safety deficiencies in the vehicle concerned. The Board also failed to reveal a causal link between the accident and their conclusions. What’s worse, the Board also identified safety problems in, among other things, mobility scooters and e-(cargo)cycles, without devoting a single word to the nature of those problems and the source of information on which those conclusions were based.

    The only safety-related fact the Council stated was that, of the 678 road fatalities in 2018, more than 140 people were users or occupants of a light motorized vehicle. The source for that figure in the report was the Dutch Bureau for Statistics (CBS). We searched for that number but couldn’t find it. The CBS statistics only mention motorized vehicles for the disabled, (low performance) mopeds and motorcycles as light categories. The number of road deaths in 2018 for those 3 means of transport came to a total of 137. The Board also says: “Because illegal vehicles are used on public roads and are therefore part of traffic, this has an effect on road safety. Because the use of these vehicles is illegal, no statistics are kept about these vehicles, so there is no insight into the numbers of vehicles and accidents that happen to this group.” It seems unlikely that vehicles will be kept out of accident statistics because they are allegedly illegal. In the moped category, a fatality with a tampered moped will not be excluded from the statistics. The CBS statistics include a category “other” which may well include, among other things, road deaths involving “illegal vehicles”. The total in 2018 was 13. The question of what effect these so-called illegal vehicles have on road safety remains unanswered.

    There is therefore no clarity at all about the number of road deaths with e-(cargo)cycles, e-scooters, self-balancing vehicles and other so-called “special mopeds“. There is also no evidence of any structural safety deficiencies in those vehicles, let alone vehicles that have caused road deaths due to technical defects. And yet the Board finds the situation so alarming that action is needed.

    Two years later, the ministerial response to the report is ready, but it is highly doubtful whether it will have any impact on the number of light electric vehicle fatalities. After all, when referring to those 140 deaths, no explanation was given as to how those people died. This way you can give the impression that they are all due to unsafe vehicles and that if you apply an LEV framework to make them safer, there will soon be no more LEV fatalities. There is indeed a good chance that there will be fewer fatalities, not thanks to safer vehicles, but due to a decrease in the number of vehicles.

    Instead of recognizing European regulations and using them as a technical basis for admission to traffic and for enforcement, the Netherlands believes it would be wiser to develop its own specific rules. The Ministry states that the European Commission has been contacted in advance about this. They indicated that, despite the Machinery Directive, there was room for national rules. Only, in our view, the Dutch Ministry has misinterpreted that space. Member States are indeed allowed to apply national requirements to matters related to the use of the vehicle, such as lighting, for example. Member States may not just add purely technical requirements to those of the Machinery Directive. The Ministry also stated that their rules are “inspired by EN 15194”. That is the standard for two-wheeled, electric bicycles with pedal assistance up to 25 km/h and 250W, not exactly the right basis for the vehicles that the Ministry is targeting. Cycles with more wheels, for example, have been deliberately excluded from that standard because they require their own adapted standards. That work is currently underway in CEN … under the care of a Dutch secretariat.

    The Ministry stated: “As long as there are no European rules, we must fill that gap nationally. We cannot escape the report of the Dutch Safety Board. In the meantime, the Netherlands is willing to contribute to a European framework.” However, the Dutch representation has never raised this alleged lacuna in the Motorcycle Working Group, where the European Commission discusses, among other things, deficiencies in Regulation 168/2013 with the Member States and stakeholders.

    In December, the Minister will debate on the LEV framework with the Dutch House of Representatives. If approved, this framework is expected to enter into force in January 2023. In the meantime, LEVA-EU, in collaboration with its members, will do everything it can to change the mind of the Dutch Representatives. In addition, LEVA-EU will raise the suspected illegality of that framework with the European Commission. Final quote from the report: by investigating the causes of an accident, “the Dutch Safety Board contributes to increased safety.” Whether this research will contribute much to safety is highly questionable.

    Road Fatalities in NL2017201820192020
    Cars, vans and trucks226259265218
    (e-)Bicycles206228203229
    Motorized wheelchairs25444234
    (Low performance) mopeds41384536
    Motorcycles51425244
    Pedestrians58544941
    Other61388
    Total613678664610

    Source: CBS

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  • Corona results in 300% bicycle demand increase for Granville превод на български
     

    “The demand for our bicycles has increased by 300 percent since corona” Johan Huygens confirms, as he shares his ongoing experiences of navigating his own brand Granville through the Pandemic amidst pressured demand, limited stock, and growing pains for the business and industry.     

    When the shops reopened after the first lockdown, it seemed that everyone wanted to buy a new bicycle at the same time. “Nobody in the sector was prepared for growth of this magnitude,” says Huygens.

    Returning to March 2020, the first corona lockdown hit our country, Belgium, hard. Bicycle shops were among those that were forced to close their doors. “That was a drama with many uncertainties”, testifies Huygens, CEO of Granville (produced in Belgium under the Ludo company), Benelux distributor of the American-Swiss bicycle brand Scott and the German Bergamont and member of LEVA-EU.

    As a first reaction, the manager launched the online platform www.bikestoresunited.be where customers could buy their bicycle online and indicate at which bicycle dealer they would like to have it serviced. The dealer received a percentage of the sale and the consumer knew where to go for repairs. “In this way, we were able to make up for a part of the lost turnover, but that was not enough.”

    Sales Explosion

    When the shops reopened, the sales figures for the bicycle sector excelled. In fact, it seemed that everyone wanted to buy a bicycle at the same time. The result of this was that stores were selling their entire stock within a few weeks. “That was madness,” says Huygens.

    Huygens’ companies had an annual turnover of 63 million euros pre-corona and sold an average of 54,000 bicycles per year. Last year they sold more than 65,000 bicycles, but the demand was much higher. “We could have easily sold 130 to 150,000 bicycles. Demand for our brands increased by 200 to 300 percent. But not one person in the sector was prepared for growth of this magnitude.”

    Corona also disrupted transport and especially production chains. Together with the immensely increased consumer demand, a scarcity still persists today for the components of bicycles.

    “There is not so much a lack of frames, but parts such as brakes, gears, and cassettes are only available in limited quantities. The waiting times sometimes go beyond two years.”

    According to Huygens, this is largely due to two component manufacturers who dominate most of the world market. They often manufacture in Asian countries where factories are still regularly shut down due to corona outbreaks due to the low vaccination rate.

    Growing Pains

    Some bicycle brands can only deliver ordered bicycles in 2022 or later, other brands are no longer taking new orders. “That puts a brake on growth within the sector”, Huygens shared. “Component factories are now gradually being built to meet the rising demand, but they will not be fully operational until 2024.”

    The CEO only expects an improvement in terms of scarcity from 2025. “In 2019 we had at least 4,000 bicycles in our warehouse, today I have less than 50 units in stock.”

    Is there any chance of a slump in demand soon? People who bought a bicycle during the lockdowns but use it much less or even no longer use it today may soon sell it second-hand, reducing the demand within the market for new bicycles.

    “Nobody has a crystal ball, but I don’t see that happening right away. In Belgium, demand might stabilize in the coming years, but companies located abroad have huge export potential.”

    This is because mobility in the urban environment is changing, there are fewer and fewer cars on the road, and the e-bike flattens hilly residential areas, so to speak. “As a result, people cycle in regions where that hardly happened in the past.”

    Huygens also notes that some cyclists who ride ebikes improve their condition after a while and then buy a second convetional bicycle. This is a new trend, pushing bicycle demand further upwards in the coming years. “We have ordered 96,500 bicycles for 2024”, says Johan Huygens.

    Source: https://www.partena-professional.be/nl/nieuws/de-vraag-naar-onze-fietsen-sinds-corona-met-300-procent-gestegen

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October 10, 2021

  • Feature: How To Make Your EV Your Own превод на български
     

    6 Fun Adjustments To Customize Your Ride

    Electric vehicles are becoming a popular trend. They allow you to drive around in emissions-free style while helping the environment. However, you may want to make your car stand out even more. Here are six fun adjustments to consider making to personalize your vehicle.

    1. Add a Custom Paint Job

    Custom paint can make your car stand out

    Paint can help enhance your car’s design and make it stand out. You probably didn’t have much choice of color when you bought the car, so this is your chance to change it up.

    To make it more unique, consider adding fun patterns or even mixing colors. You can also go simple with a single shade, such as white or black. If over time you notice any paint scratches, use a polishing compound to remove them.

    2.  Decorate the Interior

    You can also make customizations to more than just the outside of your car. Enhancing the inside is also a fun idea. Consider adding brand-new seat covers to give a more personal touch. These can also add more comfort to the interior. Look for one made from neoprene for its water resistance.

    You can take it a step further and replace your seats, too. Also, consider adding a cover to the steering wheel. Find one with fun colors or patterns to showcase your personality.

    3.  Personalize Your License Plate

    Adding a personal license plate can make your car even more special. You can go for something simple, like your initials. Keep in mind that number of letters on the plate can be different. Also, consider an image representing your interests, such as the logo of your favorite sports team, if that’s allowed.

    4.  Enhance Your Dashboard

    This is an area of your vehicle you may tend to overlook, but making some adjustments can help to personalize your interior. If you have an older model, consider upgrading your dash with new features. With the advancements in technology, dashboard displays are now more functional and convenient.

    Consider upgrading to a car stereo receiver that can connect to your smartphone. Also, adding an electronic GPS is another good update to make. If you only want to make minor changes, customize your dash with lights or a new print.

    5. Add to Your Roof

    To make the interior ceiling more attractive, consider adding customizations. Try switching up the headliner material. The headliner is the lining running along the inside top of your car. Replace the original fabric with fun materials, like leather or waxed canvas.

    Also, check to see if your headliner has sagged over time. If it has, use headliner adhesive or pins to fix the issue temporarily. Then, take it to a repair shop when you have time.

    Wheels can add a lot to a car

    6.  Customize Your Wheels

    Another way to add style to your ride is by personalizing your wheels. Your wheels are one of the first features people notice about your vehicle. Consider swapping out your original ones for more modern ones. You can choose various rim materials, such as steel or aluminum, to find one that matches your style.

    Adding updated wheels can also reduce overall weight and improve vehicle handling.

    How to Customize Your Ride

    With so many electric vehicles now on the road, you may want to make yours stand out. Thankfully, there are multiple things you can do to enhance your car.

    Story by Martin Banks. Photos from Clean Fleet Report archives.

    Buyer’s Guide: Why EVs Are Great for Students

     

     

    The post Feature: How To Make Your EV Your Own first appeared on Clean Fleet Report.

October 09, 2021

October 08, 2021

October 07, 2021

October 06, 2021

October 05, 2021

  • Regarding Today’s Jury Verdict превод на български
     

    *Sharing this recent note to employees from Valerie Capers Workman, VP People:

    Hi Team,

    Earlier today, a jury in San Francisco decided that in late 2015 and early 2016 Tesla failed to make sure that one contract employee (Owen Diaz) was not racially harassed while he worked at the Tesla Fremont factory. I heard the testimony of every witness. I was at the defense table for Tesla every day during the trial because I wanted to hear firsthand what Mr. Diaz said happened to him.

    English (US)

October 04, 2021

  • Cowboy expands into United States превод на български
     

    LEVA-EU member and well-established Belgian ebike brand Cowboy has announced its entrance into the US market at the Micromobility Conference in San Francisco, beginning with the new Cowboy 4.

    “In 2020 alone, motorists in New York lost an average of 100 hours stuck in traffic,” said Tanguy Goretti, CTO and co-founder of Cowboy. “The arrival of Cowboy offers millions of Americans the opportunity to travel carefree through the city, exercise more and enjoy free time in the great outdoors…At the moment the market is even less mature than in Europe, but we see positive signs of rapid development and change of mentality in several major cities, both among cyclists and governments. Launching Cowboy here in the US is a logical step.”

    With further expansion also taking place in Europe, including Sweden and Denmark, the launch brings the total number of markets in which Cowboy is active to twelve.

    Source/read more: https://vakbladfietsmarkt.nl/connected-e-bike-merk-cowboy-breidt-uit-naar-de-verenigde-staten/

    The post Cowboy expands into United States appeared first on LEVA-EU.

  • Wind turbines repurposed into bike sheds in Denmark превод на български
     

    In a great example of re-use, green energy infrastructure in the form of retired wind turbine blades have gone on to provide green transport infrastructure as bicycle storage sheds.

    TheMAYOR.eu reports on this creative solution to a large recycling problem. With nearly half of the country’s energy coming from wind power, and the nation being committed to environmentally friendly policy at various levels, using decommissioned turbine blades in this way is a great fit and inspiration for other organisations and leaders. The curved, sweeping shape requires minimal augmentation before it can be put into action shielding bicycles from the elements.

    The innovation was created by Siemens Gamesa, who wrote on Facebook: “Granted, making blades into bike sheds is a small-scale solution, but we believe that every blade that is reused is a valid recycling opportunity.”

    Source: https://www.themayor.eu/en/a/view/siemens-gamesa-transforms-denmark-s-wind-turbine-blades-into-bike-sheds-8985

    Wind turbine bike shed
    Wind turbine bike shed. Source: Siemens Gamesa on Facebook

    The post Wind turbines repurposed into bike sheds in Denmark appeared first on LEVA-EU.

  • RAPEX Warnings 2021 превод на български
     

    The Rapid Exchange of Information System is the EU rapid alert system for unsafe consumer products and the measures taken by the member states to deal with that safety problem. The Commission publishes a weekly overview of RAPEX notifications. Below you will find notifications relating to light, electric vehicles. To consult the full details of a notification on the Commission’s website, just click on the week.

    WeekBrandType
    Week 39
    Product: Hoverboard AirmotionModel: AirMotion H1 (on the packaging) H1-FAJ0293 (on the product)
    Risk type: Injuries, Burns, Fire
    Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Distributor): Withdrawal of the product from the market. Date of entry into force 14/07/2021
    Product: Quadricycle RenaultModel: Twizy
    Risk type: Injuries
    Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Manufacturer): Recall of the product from end users. Date of entry into force 09/03/2021
    Week 37
    Product: Hoverboard 2DriveModel: 82200823003033 / 5 999565 595050
    Risk type: Injuries, Burns, Fire
    Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Distributor): Withdrawal of the product from the market. Date of entry into force 17/08/2021
    Week 23
    Product: HoverboardSmart Balance WheelModel: 165-NJ-V3 8/690
    Risk type: Injuries, Burns, Fire
    Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Distributor): Withdrawal of the product from the market. Date of entry into force 15/12/2020
    Week 22
    Product: HoverboardKawasakiModel: KX-PRO6.5A
    Risk type: Injuries, Burns, Fire
    Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Manufacturer): Withdrawal of the product from the market. Date of entry into force 28/11/2020
    Product: Electric scooterDenverModel: SCK-5300 Black
    Risk type: Injuries, Burns, Fire
    Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Manufacturer): Recall of the product from end users. Date of entry into force 06/11/2020
    Product: Electric scooterForeverModel: Joy J-200
    Risk type: Injuries, Burns, Fire
    Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Manufacturer): Recall of the product from end users. Date of entry into force 20/11/2020
    Week 21
    Product: Electric Folding BicycleBromptonModel: Brompton Electric
    Risk type: Injuries
    Measures ordered by economic operators (to: Manufacturer): Recall of the product from end users. Date of entry into force 07/04/2021
    Week 19
    Product: HoverboardMotusModel: Take it XD 6.5
    Risk type: Fire, Injuries
    Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Distributor): Withdrawal of the product from the market. Date of entry into force 07/11/2020
    Ō CHICModel: Smart-S
    Risk type: Fire, Injuries
    Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Distributor): Withdrawal of the product from the market. Date of entry into force 26/10/2020
    BIKEMEModel: Unknown
    Risk type: Fire, Injuries
    Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Distributor): Withdrawal of the product from the market. Recall of the product from end users. Date of entry into force 07/01/2021
    Week 7
    Product: HoverboardEljetModel: STANDARD E1
    Risk type: 
    Electric shock, Fire, Injuries

    Water may enter in the product’s charger (charging connector), and the product itself (control electronics) is not resistant to moisture nor correctly insulated against water ingress. This can damage the electric components causing it to overheat and catch fire. It may also short circuit and make accessible parts live, and a user may suffer an electric shock, or fall and be injured due to malfunction. / The product did not comply with the requirements of the Machinery Directive, nor with the European standards EN 60335-1 and 2, and EN 60529.

    Measures ordered by public authorities (to: Distributor): Withdrawal of the product from the market.

    The post RAPEX Warnings 2021 appeared first on LEVA-EU.

  • CEN and CENELEC Joint Response to the European Commission Standardization Strategy Roadmap, Plus New Website превод на български
     

    CEN, the European Committee for Standardization, an association that brings together the National Standardization Bodies of 34 European countries, and CENELEC, the European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization, an association that brings together the National Electrotechnical Committees of 34 European countries, have issued a joint statement following the consultation on the Roadmap of the “European Strategy for Standardization”.

    “CEN and CENELEC would like to thank the European Commission for organizing this consultation on the Roadmap of the “European Strategy for Standardization”. We welcome the consultation as a critical development in the joint efforts to build a robust, resilient, and competitive green economy for Europe, which encourages the alignment of strategies for and use of standardization as a key asset towards achieving these ambitions.

    The feedback document details our proposals to address five specific areas in which standardization can support and for which a strong engagement with the European Commission is sought. These are supported by specific examples of what can be achieved together and that can shape our common aims going forward.”

    Download the CEN-CENELEC Response to the European Commission Standardization Strategy Roadmap

    The statement was posted on CEN and CENELEC’s brand new website, which aims to offer an enhanced user experience via a refreshed look, improved navigation and a handful of features intended to make the overall experience more impactful on either desktop, mobile or tablet. 

    Elena Santiago Cid, CEN and CENELEC’s Director General, commented: “The new website testifies to our ongoing commitment to making our work accessible, transparent and open to the future. We will be constantly updating the content to enhance the digital presence of CEN and CENELEC and increase our online interaction with our stakeholders and experts. I sincerely hope that you enjoy the new website and all that it has to offer!

    Visit the new website at: https://www.cencenelec.eu/

    The post CEN and CENELEC Joint Response to the European Commission Standardization Strategy Roadmap, Plus New Website appeared first on LEVA-EU.

  • CAKE closes $60 million fundraising превод на български
     

    Scaling from successful global start-up towards vehicle industry operator.

    CAKE, the Swedish manufacturer of lightweight electric performance motorcycles, scooters and mopeds today announces that CAKE’s latest round of fundraising surpassed expectations and closed at $60M. The fundraising comprises convertible notes of $14M and a $46M financing round. The financing round was anchored by Swedish pension fund AMF, investing alongside a handful of new investors and with strong support from current shareholders including Creandum and Headline, who are committed to continue to support the company on its continued growth journey.

    We are in the process of implementing initiatives to scale the business, structuring and laying the base for rapid growth. Aside from new product platforms, like the new and compact Makka expanding the user base, within B2C as well as B2B, CAKE is setting up manufacturing facilities in Europe, North America and Asia for sustainability and efficiency reasons, as we speak.

    Furthermore, CAKE Sites including showrooms, retail and service will start popping up in major cities, starting this fall.

    We knew we were entering a space with increasingly strong tailwinds when we got started back in 2016, but we couldn’t dream of the pace in which things are now happening, for the good of people, planet and business.” says Stefan Ytterborn, Founder & CEO of CAKE.

    Patricia Hedelius, Portfolio Manager at AMF, had this to say about the new funding:

    We appreciate the opportunity to invest in one of Sweden’s most interesting companies within the field of electrification at this rather early stage. CAKE’s drive and go-ahead spirit is impressive, as is the ambitious plan to grow the company and offer sustainable transportation. The products can be important in the transition to a more sustainable society, and CAKE’s innovative design and solid custom focus has contributed to a strong market interest.

    CAKE has had a flying global start since it was introduced in 2018, with series production bikes in the market from the spring of 2019. With the focus on establishing a new category of light, quiet and clean electric motorcycles, with performance and durability being the main objectives, the company continues to lead towards extended life cycles, efficiency and sustainable initiatives.

    All of us working with Cake are proud of the development of the company. We are also happy to welcome our new and important investors. Together we can take a leap in developing the future for clean mobility.” says Conny Carlsson, chairman of the board at CAKE.

    Staffan Helgesson, General Partner at Creandum Advisor, continues:

    Cake’s obsession with creating a superior user experience has been ingrained in the company’s DNA from day one and is something we can fully identify with. We are very happy to continue to support the team for the long term in their ambition to become the category leader in the premium two wheeler electric vehicle segment.

    SEB Corporate Finance Growth acted as sole financial advisor and Hansen Law acted as legal advisor to CAKE in relation to the capital raising.
    Questions will be answered by:
    Stefan Ytterborn, CEO and founder, stefan@ridecake.com, +46 72 539 54 50

    about CAKE

    CAKE is a Swedish company with a clear mission to inspire towards a zero-emission society, by combining excitement and responsibility in its development of light, quiet, and clean high-performance electric off-road motorcycles. Its first model, the Kalk, debuted at Denver’s OR and Munich’s ISPO shows in January 2018 and has received numerous accolades, including the 2019 and 2020 Red Dot Design Award, IF Design Award, Automotive Brand Contest Award, and “Best in Show” designation by several outdoor industry publications. In 2019, CAKE launched the Kalk&, a street-legal motorcycle as well as Ösa+ and Ösa Lite, a utility platform with an integrated power station and off-road capabilities, which extended their award-winning streak. Kalk INK debuted in March 2020, with the street-legal Kalk INK SL entering the line in April 2020. And CAKE expanded into the race scene in November 2020, launching the Kalk OR Race and Kalk INK Race. In September 2021, CAKE released a convenient and light city moped, the Makka, expanding the user matrix further.

    It’s all about the outdoors. Explore with respect.
    Learn more about CAKE at ridecake.com.

    About AMF

    With SEK 800 billion in assets managed for approximately 4 million customers, AMF is one of Sweden’s leading pension companies and one of the largest owners on Nasdaq OMX Nordic Stockholm. AMF is a limited liability life insurance company that is owned equally by the Swedish Trade Union Confederation (LO) and the Confederation of Swedish Enterprise and operated on mutual principles, entailing that all profits are returned to the customers.

    About about Creandum

    Creandum is a leading European early-stage venture capital firm. Since 2003, Creandum has backed Europe’s most ambitious tech companies from seed to exit across a wide range of industries. Creandum’s advisory teams are based in Stockholm, Berlin, London, and San Francisco. With extensive operational expertise, the teams offer comprehensive support to the funds’ portfolio of more than 100 companies, including some of Europe’s most successful tech companies such as Spotify, iZettle, Klarna, Kahoot!, Trade Republic and Small Giant Games. Learn more at creandum.com.

    The post CAKE closes $60 million fundraising appeared first on LEVA-EU.

October 03, 2021

October 02, 2021

October 01, 2021

September 30, 2021

September 29, 2021