Taiwans Biggest Scooter Maker Steps in e-Bikes

TAIPEI, Taiwan – The biggest scooter & motorcycle maker in Taiwan, the Kwang Yang Motor Company, better known under its brand name Kymco, announced December 4 that it is ready to take on the biggest bicycle maker of the country, Giant, in the fast growing electric bicycle market.

Kymco launched beginning December its e-Bike called SunnyBoy which the company will start delivering in February 2009. So far it is said that first shipments are destined for the home market which will also function as a test market. Worldwide deliveries including to Europe are expected not earlier than 2010.

Why e-Bikes for Kymco?

Why Kymco is targeting the electric bicycle market is because of the economic downturn which is also affecting the company on its home market. 2008 scooter sales in Taiwan dropped by about 10% while for 2009 a further decline is expected.

The fact that electric bicycles are far more affordable than scooters must have urged Kymco to make a start in this segment of the two-wheeler market. Kymco’s SunnyBoy is equipped with a lithium-ion battery capable of a range of about 50 kms.

Meanwhile Kymco’s competitors in Taiwan, Sym and PGO are entering the e-Scooter business. The fact that the Taipei City Council is subsidizing the purchase of e-Scooters with about € 250 per scooter, must have contributed to the decision by the two PTWs makers to step into the electric Scooter business.