E-Bikes, Changan, Samsung Electronics, Smartvélo and more

E-bikes are a key driver for sustainable mobility and already offer a significant alternative to the car for short and medium distances. As a result, e-bikes have become the most popular "electric vehicle" in Europe and are now a common sight on city streets. According to the German Bicycle Industry Association, there are approximately eleven million e-bikes in Germany alone, and in 2023, sales of e-bikes (53%) will surpass sales of conventional bicycles (47%) for the first time. In addition, the number of leased company bikes (both conventional bicycles and e-bikes) has continuously increased between 2019 and 2023, growing at an average annual rate of 45%. Currently, the fleet includes 1.9 million leased bikes. A representative study conducted by Bosch eBike Systems across eight European countries and the USA provided further insights: 49.7% of e-bike users reported replacing half of their previous car trips with e-bike journeys. They also use their e-bikes more frequently (69.4%) and cover longer distances (69.8%) compared to conventional bicycles. The study also highlighted the need for a bike-friendly infrastructure to enhance safety for e-bike riders, as 78.7% of respondents emphasized the importance of feeling safe while riding. However, 77.3% were concerned about accidents, and more than a quarter (27.8%) had been involved in an accident, mostly within city limits (70.3%) and on the road (48.8%). The figure was lower on cycle paths, at around a third (28.4%). More than 70% of respondents would like to see more political action to improve cycling infrastructure.

Chinese automaker Changan plans to launch its first models in Norway, Denmark, Germany and the Netherlands by the end of this year. To support this expansion, the company has already established subsidiaries in Germany and the Netherlands. By 2025, Changan aims to further expand its presence to the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Sweden and Finland. As one of the largest automakers in China, Changan sold more than 2.55 million vehicles worldwide in 2023. The company operates in more than 63 countries and is focused on global expansion, including joint ventures with Ford and Mazda. The first model planned for the German market is the "Deepal S07", a mid-size SUV. As the market share of fully electric vehicles is still relatively small, Changan also plans to offer hybrid gasoline and plug-in hybrid vehicles in Europe. By 2028, the brand aims to be present in all major European markets.

Samsung Electronics recently formed a strategic technology partnership with Hyundai Motors and Kia. The goal of the three companies is to enhance connectivity for their customers. To achieve this, Samsung's SmartThings IoT platform will be fully integrated into Hyundai and Kia's software-defined vehicles (SDVs). The signing ceremony took place at Samsung Electronics' R&D campus in Seoul.

IoT Venture and SMARTVÉLO have announced a strategic partnership aimed at improving the safety and efficiency of e-bike fleets in the delivery sector. From now on, SMARTVÉLO's e-bikes can be equipped with IoT Venture's innovative GPS trackers, enabling comprehensive management and monitoring of e-bike fleets for delivery services. This collaboration represents a significant step forward in optimizing the use of e-bikes in the delivery industry. By integrating IoT solutions, companies using SMARTVÉLO e-bikes can achieve more targeted monitoring and management of their fleets. Delivery services can benefit from these advances.