There’s a growing belief in both the US and Europe the electric bike will become a mainstream product in 2009. 2008's faltering economic outlook and sky-high fuel prices provided a boost for the segment because of increased consumer awareness and interest.
The LEV (light electric vehicles), including electric bicycles, will also be one of the focal points at the Taipei Cycle 2009. In Taiwan the government indicated it would work to bring a total of 100,000 electric bicycles into the market in the next four years.
As part of this effort and to attract industry investment and promote domestic sales of e-bikes, the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) and the Taipei Cycle organizer TAITRA will jointly sponsor the Taiwan E-Bike Industry Forum 2009 in conjunction with the Taipei CYCLE 2009. The E-Bike Forum will be held in Conference Room 402 at the TWTC Nangang Exhibition Hall 4F on March 18, the show's second day.
Also on March 16, just one day before Taipei Cycle starts, the LEV Conference, sponsored by Extra Energy, will take place at TWTC Exhibition Hall which is adjacent to the Hyatt Hotel. This year's key topics are related to public infrastructure for LEVs.
The main topics and speakers include: “Global Market Outlook for Electric Scooters” by Mr. Ed Benjamin of Benjamin Consulting, “Fast Charging Experience with Electric Scooters” by Mr. Masao Ono of Tokyo R&D, “Standard Battery and Infrastructure: Proposal for E-Scooters and Pedelecs” by Ms. Anke Scheiblhuber of Hi Tech Energy, and “Introduction to the Energy Bus organization” by Hannes Neupert of Energy Bus.
Test & Drive
At all days of Taipei Cycle show, the ExtraEnergy Test track will be open for test rides on electric bikes and scooters of various manufacturers. Just like last year, the test course will include a spectacular 100m long incline to feel the real benefit of an electric bike.
EnergyBus and BATSO will both be presented at a joint booth with ITRI. Interested industry representatives can make appointments here for private meetings on both items.
A 2-hour information session on each, EnergyBus and BATSO, are planned for March 19, 2009. Time and location will be announced later.
- For related items on the Taipei Int'l Cycle Show, click here
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