Shared bicycles have become an integral part of urban mobility. Across Europe and beyond, they are no longer simply an alternative mode of transport, but an essential part of multimodal mobility networks. As fleets expand, operators and manufacturers are increasingly focused on long-term operational performance, where reliability, serviceability and system integration determine overall fleet efficiency.

The Shanghai, China-based e-drive manufacturer Ananda Drive Technology reported a year-on-year revenue increase from CNY 1,528.34 million (€197.22 million) in 2024 to CNY 2,004.28 million (€258 million) in 2025. Compared with the revenue growth, the income increased only marginally by 4.7% to CNY 115.04 million (€14.8 million) in 2025. This had severla clear causes, according to Ananda.

Automated guided vehicles shuttle components between assembly stations while robotic machines operate across three floors of production space. At Ananda's Wuxi facility, manufacturing scale and vertical integration have become central to the company's ambitions in the global e-bike market. The Chinese drive system manufacturer is building what it describes as a "closed-loop" manufacturing ecosystem: one that aims to deliver both volume and reliability. Bike Europe visited the Factory Floor to discover the industrial philosophy behind… Ananda.

Selecting a drive system is no longer just a technical choice; it dictates development timelines and long-term portfolio strategy while supporting on-demand flexibility. For Bicycle brands in a competitive market, strategic system architecture is now a structural business consideration. This shift is driving interest in scalable platform solutions that streamline engineering resources while maintaining clear segment differentiation.

In today's market, product quality alone is no longer enough. With the added complexity of motors, batteries, and smart systems—and increasingly demanding riders—a scalable and reliable service model has become the true foundation of long-term success. This shift challenges OEMs and suppliers alike to rethink their role: not just as manufacturers or brands, but as service partners.

The e-bike sector is navigating a challenging yet transformative moment. With growing price pressure, overstock, and evolving consumer expectations, manufacturers need more than just performance—they need adaptability.