The Czech industry just can't seem to regenerate the local e-MTB market. Czechs are primarily focused on off-road e-bike use, and e-MTB models were a strong segment in 2025, but this category is still threatened and burdened by the ongoing sales crisis since 2023. Still, there are positive signs coming from this important production base for the EU market.

Smart technology is reshaping the e-bike industry. It's giving users more autonomy in managing maintenance and customisation features. Panasonic, known for introducing the world to one of the first e-bikes, has recently launched its GXM series in Europe, along with a smartphone application to easily configure and adjust the bike to preference.

In the increasingly dynamic e-bike landscape, Panasonic consistently emerges as a key player in the market. The Japanese enterprise does not only benefit from its extensive technical know-how but also from its many years of experience in the bicycle industry. We sat down with Peter Obermeier, Senior Business Development Manager at Panasonic Industry Europe, to reflect on Panasonic's impressive history in the bicycle industry.

KASHIWARA CITY, Japan - The cooperation with former Flyer maker Biketec in Switzerland gave e-bike drivetrain pioneer Panasonic Cycle Technology Co., Ltd. (PCT) an early presence on the European market. Bike Europe got a unique insight into the PCT headoffice and factory near Osaka. Why were the Japanese not so successful in Europe with their extremely reliable drivetrain during the e-bike boom?

Each year, an increasing number of drive manufacturers enter the e-bike market, ensuring increased competition. With smart investments in local service and distribution offerings, the Japanese company Panasonic Cycle Technology Co., Ltd. shows how to strengthen its ties with its European OEM partners in these challenging conditions.

Leader Fox used the summer vacation time to innovate its facilities. During the production break, the production line was completely replaced. The Czech manufacturer also started a new partnership with Panasonic. Vít Šatný - director of Bohemia, owner of the Leader Fox brand - spoke to us about the recent changes and their partnership with motor manufacturer Bafang.