ZEIST, the Netherlands - It's May as I write this blog, the time of year when cockchafers (May bugs) emerge from the ground en masse. This phenomenon is remarkable in itself, as the insect has been largely eradicated in most parts of the Netherlands due to pesticide use. Each time, it's a fascinating spectacle. After spending up to five years underground as larvae - being a persistent nuisance to my garden - they get to live above ground for just a few short weeks.

DELFT, the Netherlands - Cargo bikes and box bikes are now also getting their own European standard, following the example of similar standards set for bicycles, e-bikes and individual components. This should ensure, among other things, that cargo bikes' overall safety and quality are held to a high standard within Europe.

LONG BEACH, United States - Amid an increasingly volatile trade industry, independent testing and certification body ACT Lab has launched a global pricing initiative to support bicycle and e-mobility manufacturers in maintaining safe and compliant products. The "Tariff Reduction ACT" applies to mechanical and chemical testing services in bundled packages to help companies navigating the frequently shifting trade policies and disruptions in the supply chain.

BRUSSELS, Belgium - Which battery cabinet provides sufficient protection when an e-bike battery catches fire? Many bicycle industry entrepreneurs are uncertain about the products available. The German VDMA 24994 standard is intended to help separate the good from the bad. According to Bart van de Broek of Dutch financial services provider Nationale-Nederlanden, it will soon be clear whether this standard will also apply across all of Europe.

MÜHLTAL, Germany - E-bike and cargobike manufacturer Riese & Müller has been honoured with the German Sustainability Award in the company category 'Two Wheelers'. This award, which acknowledges ecological and social commitment, has been awarded since 2008 by the German Sustainability Award Foundation and recognises companies that contribute to the sustainable transformation of the economy.

AMSTERDAM, The Netherlands - The Dutch Light Electric Vehicles (LEV) framework has been postponed once more, according to the RAI Association, the professional organization for (e-)bike manufacturers in the Netherlands. Initially set to take effect on January 1, 2025, the framework is now delayed until July 2025. Implementation of the new framework will have implications for amongst others, e-cargobike users in the country.