From Bumps to Smooth Rides: VanMoof's Redesigned E-Bikes Promise a Fresh Start | April 12th, 2024

Description: Plus, China approved mass production of the world's first certified eVTOL taxi, and Waymo announced paid robotaxi rides in Los Angeles.

Issue [#234] - Every week, we deliver analysis and curation of emerging mobility news - post a job listing here!

Micromobility

Ride1Up, a prominent electric bike manufacturer, has significantly lowered prices across its product range to enhance accessibility. Unlike temporary sales common in the industry, Ride1Up is making these price cuts permanent, aiming for transparency and sincerity. The company's move reflects a commitment to offering affordable e-bikes without compromising quality. This shift challenges industry norms, encouraging fair pricing strategies and promoting transparency for consumers | Electrek

In 2023, Lime, a leading micromobility provider, celebrated a record-breaking year with a surge in rides and bookings. Lime's global trips doubled in over 42 cities, totaling 156 million rides and gaining 9.2 million new riders. Despite industry challenges, Lime thrived, attributing its success to expanding vehicle fleets and markets. The company's growth underscores the increasing demand for micromobility solutions worldwide | Smart Cities Dive

In an era of escalating climate crises, more urban dwellers are turning to bicycles not just as a means of escape during emergencies but as a proactive solution for building resilient communities. From securing budget allocations for cycling infrastructure to implementing congestion pricing and reducing parking spaces, cities are reimagining transportation to prioritize eco-friendly options and ensure long-term sustainability | Fast Company

As electric bicycles gain traction across the U.S., the need for dedicated cycling infrastructure becomes increasingly apparent. By investing in separated bike lanes and secure charging stations, cities can ensure safer and more accessible urban environments for cyclists and pedestrians alike, fostering a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future | Electrek

New York City is ramping up efforts to address the safety risks associated with e-bike battery fires, introducing measures like pilot charging stations and laws against selling uncertified batteries. By prioritizing safety and regulation, the city aims to protect both e-bike riders and the public from potential dangers posed by faulty batteries | Gothamist

Product Launches & Updates

Juiced Bikes introduces the groundbreaking Juiced JetCurrent Pro, a folding e-bike boasting unparalleled speed and power. This decade-in-the-making innovation features a robust 1,200W motor, advanced torque sensors, and a massive battery for over 70 miles of range. With impressive safety features, including an integrated alarm and motion-activated lights, this $2,799 e-bike offers unmatched performance and convenience. Pre-orders are open, with deliveries starting in early June | Electrek

VanMoof's re-engineered S5 and A5 e-bikes are back on sale, signaling a new chapter for the company under McLaren Applied's ownership. Despite minor software issues, these bikes represent a fresh start, boasting improvements in reliability, supply chain, and customer service. While trust in the brand may be in question, VanMoof's commitment to delivering on promises and revamping its offerings could be the key to winning back consumer confidence | The Verge

Geely has unveiled the Kart Edition of its Panda Mini EV, targeting China's youth with its sporty design and compact size. With features like a rear-mounted motor, colorful exterior options, and advanced technology in the interior, this quirky yet practical electric car is determined to capture the attention of trendy young drivers in China | Electrek

Ridehailing, Carsharing & Delivery

Elon Musk announces Tesla's robotaxi reveal on August 8 amid reports of shifting focus from a $25,000 EV. Despite setbacks in EV sales and profits, Musk counters Reuters' claims on X. Tesla aims to unveil a robotaxi, part of long-standing plans for autonomous vehicles. However, Tesla's autonomous capabilities remain unfulfilled, with existing features requiring driver oversight. The move reflects Tesla's ongoing pursuit of innovation amid market challenges and regulatory scrutiny | TechCrunch

When Uber and Lyft left Austin in 2016, new rideshare apps emerged, but passengers used them less. If they exit Minneapolis, lessons from Austin’s experience are crucial. After Uber and Lyft left, new startups like RideAustin emerged, but many passengers stuck to their cars. Despite some drivers' satisfaction, technical issues and legislative changes led to challenges. The dominance of Uber and Lyft poses obstacles for new entrants in the rideshare market | Axios Twin Cities

Urban air mobility takes flight as China approves mass production of world's first certified eVTOL taxi, promising safer and more efficient transportation for the future. With EHang's EH216-S leading the charge, cities are gearing up for a transformative shift towards autonomous aerial mobility, unlocking new economic opportunities and redefining the future of transportation | ZAGDaily

Waymo announced the launch of paid robotaxi rides in Los Angeles, marking a significant step forward in the development of autonomous transportation. With over 50,000 people on the waitlist, Waymo's expansion brings self-driving taxis to the nation's second-largest city, despite pushback from unions and local transportation authorities | NBC News

Cruise, the autonomous vehicle company owned by General Motors, is restarting manual operations of its robotaxis in Phoenix after a five-month hiatus. This move marks a significant shift away from its previous rapid expansion strategy, focusing instead on gathering high-fidelity location data and improving safety protocols. While Cruise hasn't revealed its full strategy, this move suggests a recalibration towards prioritizing safety and reliability over aggressive growth | TechCrunch

Investment & Deals

Micromobility leader Bird emerges from bankruptcy, slashing operating expenses by two-thirds. Reorganized under Third Lane Mobility Inc., it prioritizes profitability by trimming unproductive ventures. Despite recent financial challenges, Bird and Spin expand services globally, winning bids and entering new markets. With a focus on city partnerships, Bird aims for sustainable growth, emphasizing profitability and customer satisfaction. Over 90 markets will reopen for spring, with over 200,000 vehicles available | ZAGDaiy

Lime, an e-bike startup backed by Uber, sets sights on fleet expansion with a plan to introduce 30,000 additional bikes in 2024. While competitors have faced financial challenges and operational consolidation, Lime pursues growth in the market | Bloomberg

Adrien Tahon, General Manager of BlaBlaCar, reveals how a €100 subsidy has resulted in a 94% retention rate among new carpooling drivers, transforming the landscape of short-distance travel behavior | ZAGDaiy

With a €200M investment, HysetCo gears up to accelerate the growth of hydrogen refueling, successfully onboarding over 500 professionals, predominantly taxi drivers, and distributing nearly 30 tonnes of hydrogen monthly | Tech.eu

Cities & Policy

Massachusetts House Democrats propose a substantial transportation funding increase, allocating $555 million to the MBTA and $184 million to regional transit authorities. This marks a 41% rise in transportation spending, prioritizing safety, reduced fares for low-income riders, and climate resilience. The initiative also includes a workforce development program to address staffing shortages. These efforts reflect a commitment to improving public transit and fostering economic growth | GBH

Urban downtowns face challenges, but innovative solutions emerge, like Culdesac Tempe in Arizona, bringing city living to the suburbs. Similar developments are sprouting in Charlotte and beyond, appealing particularly to younger demographics. Despite uncertainties, trends show a growing demand for walkable communities and central living spaces, reshaping the urban landscape. With a focus on pedestrian-friendly environments, these initiatives offer promising alternatives for future city planning and development | Governing

While electric vehicles have been widely praised as a vital element in our transition to a low-carbon future, their tangible impact may sometimes seem elusive. Conversations surrounding electric vehicles often focus on the future, highlighting the potential to reduce climate pollution by 35% if every new car and truck were electric | Fast Company

The unusual earthquake in NYC highlights worries regarding infrastructure, as the significant 4.8 magnitude quake caused buildings to shake and objects to fall, raising concerns about their structural integrity | The Verge

In the UK, the phrase "15-minute city" has acquired a toxic connotation, sparking controversy to the extent that the city of Oxford has discontinued its use. Additionally, the transport minister has propagated discredited conspiracy theories surrounding this urban planning scheme | The Guardian

New Products, Features, and Data Points

Voltpost introduces curbside EV chargers across major U.S. cities like New York and Chicago. Installed on lampposts, these Level 2 chargers offer convenient charging managed through a mobile app. Each unit accommodates multiple charge ports, designed for easy cable management. With a swift installation process and open charging distribution strategy, Voltpost aims to enhance EV accessibility in urban areas, addressing challenges faced by apartment dwellers and enhancing charging infrastructure | Green Car Reports

Uber introduces improved accessibility and customization for its safety tools, giving users the option to activate them for every ride or exclusively for rides scheduled after 9PM | Engadget

Following the discontinuation of its self-driving car project, Apple initiates a significant round of post-pandemic job cuts in California, resulting in the layoff of 600 workers across eight offices in Santa Clara | The Guardian

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