Jan-Willem van Schaik

AMSTERDAM, the Netherlands - Qwic was always known as one of the early innovators in the e-bike market in the Netherlands. According to Qwic an unexpected tax bill made brand owner Hartmobile decide to apply for insolvency in self-administration last week, followed by a bankruptcy this morning. This decision will also impact the start of the new automatic frame production line at VDL in Breda, the Netherlands.

AMSTERDAM, the Netherlands - The 2023 edition of the International Cargo Bike Festival (ICBF) has connected with the Fully Charged Live Europe show. From 24-26 November 60 pedal-powered brands will showcase their latest innovations alongside a program with renowned international speakers.

WOKING, UK - The bankruptcy of VanMoof this summer caused a lot of commotion in the bicycle industry. Since the confirmation of the take-over of the brand by McLaren Applied late August it has been very quiet around the brand.

NUNSPEET, the Netherlands - High inventory level continues to be troublesome for the once successful Dutch e-bike brand Stella E-bikes. Investor DM Equity Partners, who previously held a 35% stake has seized power at the e-bike manufacturer and obtained a majority of the shares.

EDINBURGH, UK - The concept is not new anymore, but seldomly seen in the bicycle industry. Scottish e-bike technology startup Intra-Drive has announced that they will appoint Nature to the board of their business.

MINATO, Japan - As an automotive giant, Honda Motor is not known as the most advanced company in the market for electric mobility. It is striking to see the absence of any vision in the design of the product, while the company is focused on 'future mobility'. Honda's entrance on the e-bike market was not very striking.

LUXEMBURG - The European Public Prosecutor's Office reports that it has filed two separate indictments at the Court of Antwerp, Belgium for the evasion of customs duties on the importation of e-bikes from China. In both cases they are accused of presenting incorrect customs declarations in order to evade anti-dumping and countervailing duties.

RAVENSBURG, Germany - ZF Micro Mobility has launched Sachs RS motor software updates for the e-MTB, Tour and Cargo applications. According to ZF Micro Mobility this development is a major improvement of the user experience.

MADRID, Spain - In line with all market expectations, the production volume of the bicycle industry in Spain decreased by 34.7% last September compared with 2022. This major decline can be regarded as a correction on the COVID related boom. Production and sales volumes are still above 2019 levels.

DUSSELDORF, Germany - Market confidence is positive if looking at the growing size of Cyclingworld in Dusseldorf which will take place from 15 to 17 March 2024. The consumer show is not affected by the negative tendencies in the market due to overstock and lower sales levels than forecasted.