Rosie Burgin

HAIBACH, Germany - Akku Vision has launched two new models to its collection under the e-bike battery brand E-Bike Vision. For the popular Panasonic 36V Next Generation drive system, the 17Ah (605Wh) and 19Ah (691Wh) versions were both developed and assembled in Germany.

REDHILL, England - UK start-up Leopard Technology, has created a smart security and connectivity solution for the cycling industry. Developed over the last 12 months with a European bicycle manufacturer, Leopard Lync, utilises the latest in IoT technology to "provide bicycle and accessory manufacturers with the tools to make any bike a smart bike".

SHANGHAI, China - Chinese e-bike component manufacturer, Wuxing, unveiled a new mid motor during the China Cycle show 2021 earlier this month. The large domestic e-bike parts supplier presented not only the new e-bike mid motor, but also associated displays and lighting solutions.

MILAN, Italy - Polini, a well-known Italian brand name in the motorcycles and scooter industry, has introduced the next generation of its E-P3 motor for e-bikes. Named the E-P3+ the mid-motor has been upgraded to offer a better performance.

STUTTGART, Germany - E-bike drive system manufacturer, Mahle, is developing a new kind of magnet-free electric motor that does not require rare earth elements. Suitable for use in all vehicle classes, including e-bikes, the company says this will "not only make production more environmentally compatible, but also brings advantages in terms of costs and resource security."

EINDHOVEN, the Netherlands - Shimano is moving further into the e-bike market with the introduction of two new drive unit models. Designed for cargo bikes, the new Shimano EP8 and E6100 cargo-specific drive units, which will be available during summer 2021, come with built-in firmware for powering heavy loads.

DOETINCHEM, The Netherlands - Not only in the bicycle industry, but the supply chains of 40% of multinationals proved unsuited to face the impact of the corona pandemic. The global crisis therefore drastically changed companies' attitudes to risk. According to international research from 320 companies, supply chain success now depends on real-time data insights, flexibility and digitization.

BARCHFELD, Germany - Wittkop GmbH, a subsidiary of the Büchel group took over the Italian saddle manufacturer Selle Esse, on May 1, 2021. With this takeover, the company aims to strengthen and expand saddle and saddle parts production in Germany, especially in Zella-Mehlis and Barchfeld in Thuringia, as well as in Bassano, Italy.

OSAKA, Japan - Amid new waves of COVID-19 infections, global demand for bicycles has remained at a high level since last year. As a result, Shimano has reported that Q1 net sales in its Bicycle Components division increased 76.3% from the same period of the previous year to 103,757 million yen (€791 million), and operating income increased 169.3% to 27,730 million yen (€211 million).

FRIEDRICHSHAFEN, Germany - Registration has now opened for this year's Eurobike Award. Companies, designers and developers of the international bike and mobility sector have until 8th July to register their new products for the 16th edition of the Eurobike Award 2021. The winning products will be showcased at this year's event scheduled for 1-4 September.