Irvine, CA – March 27, 2024 – The National Bicycle Dealers Association (NBDA) Bicycle Industry E Bike Safety & Standards Panel convened for the third time on March 12, 2024, to address critical concerns regarding electric bicycles (e-bikes) in the United States. The panel's discussions revolved around the e-bike industry's exploration of alternative battery chemistries, strategies for IBDs to compete against low-cost e-bikes, addressing IBD support challenges, and ways for broadening community engagement and customer base with e-bikes.
Key Highlights of the Panel Discussion:
E-Bike Industry's Shift from Lithium-Ion
The panel recognized the importance and interest to explore alternative battery chemistries less flammable than lithium-ion, but agreed that lithium-ion remains the most optimal and preferred choice.Panel speakers including Ed Benjamin of the Light Electric Vehicle Association, Mike Fritz of Human Powered Solutions, and Michael DeVisser of OHM Electric Bikes pointed out that alternative batteries face challenges such as less energy storage, higher weight, and cost concerns, as well as longer development and production timelines. Despite these challenges, including increased safety risks when quality is sacrificed for cheaper production, lithium-ion batteries are still the favored and most common option. Research aimed at enhancing the safety of lithium-ion batteries, like the development of fire-resistant technologies, is advancing; however, research from Exponent Laboratory suggests that some current commonly advised safety measures, such as fire-resistant blankets, may actually exacerbate fire intensity in certain scenarios. Michael DeVisser additionally highlighted that while the industry watches the development of solid-state and sodium batteries for the future, a significant shift from lithium-ion is not expected to start for at least 3 to 5 years and probably 10-15 or more years before there is commercial availability, and unanswered questions remain about their recyclability. The industry panel consensus calls for rigorous testing and certification to reduce risks, education, and government policy.
Competing on Quality: IBDs vs. Low-Cost E-Bikes
Richard Wittenberg from Troxus Mobility emphasized the importance for IBDs to stand out by understanding and addressing customers' needs in a market where affordability and safety expectations are key. He stressed the significance of demonstrating to customers the added benefits and reassurance that come with purchasing from retailers who prioritize and ensure adherence to established safety standards like UL 2849. He encourages strengthening communication and education with customers using clear merchandising and signs, which helps customers learn and engage more with knowledgeable staff. An important way for IBDs to differentiate themselves is through offering excellent service, such as ensuring parts for e-bikes are always available. By focusing on selling e-bikes and batteries that are UL certified and providing the necessary certified parts, IBDs can highlight their commitment to safety and quality, offering a stable long-term and consistent relationship, setting themselves apart from those selling cheaper, less regulated products.
IBD Support Challenges and Solutions for E-Bikes
Michael Pasquali from CEBA highlighted the need for stronger e-bike service options for customers, encouraging IBDs to quickly enhance their capabilities. He noted there is a significant knowledge gap due to the lack of service training provided by hub drive system producers and e-bike manufacturers, which makes store staff hesitant in engaging with e-bike sales and maintenance. Pasquali advised that IBDs could attract D2C e-bike customers by offering specialized services and repairs, and by requesting thorough training from e-bike brands. Richard Wittenberg from Troxus Mobility emphasized the importance of supporting suppliers that deliver complete and readily available services and treating each e-bike sale as the beginning of a long-term customer relationship that could lead to repeat business. The open forum further underscored the importance of building solid relationships with reliable distributors and providing personalized, complete service to earn e-bike customer loyalty, recognizing their specific needs in contrast to those of traditional cyclists. The forum also highlighted the IBDs' historical success in using exceptional service to effectively navigate market changes.
Engaging Communities with E-Bikes
In an open forum discussion, emphasis was placed on tailoring products and services to meet the diverse needs of a broad customer base. Organizing e-bike demonstrations at educational institutions and community events provides wider exposure, encouraging recreational users the chance to try out e-bikes. Focusing on engaging with older adults at community centers represents a significant opportunity to reach a demographic that can greatly benefit from e-bike technology. Additionally, appealing to parents of young families as prospective customers for e-cargo bikes is another important market. Dawn Miller, Senior Advisor to NYC Chief Climate Officer and co-lead of Mayor Adams Interagency Task Force on Electric Micromobility, highlighted the growing shift toward e- bikes as viable alternatives to traditional vehicles, offering bike shops the chance to lead this transformation, while advising a strategic focus away from the moped and motorcycle markets. Concentrating on wider demographics and the multifunctional use of e-bikes, IBDs can introduce different groups to e-bikes, providing reliable education and showing how versatile they are.
A recording of the forum is available for viewing on the NBDA YouTube Channel.
The NBDA Bicycle Industry E-Bike Safety & Standards Panel acknowledges that fostering the growth of e-bikes in the U.S. requires a collaborative approach.
Heather Mason, NBDA President stated, "I am thankful to the experts who lend their voice to these important conversations focused around retailer health and safety. I urge more to join in this proactive forum bringing topics and conversations forth to best serve all. "
For further information about the NBDA Bicycle Industry E Bike Safety & Standards Panel and to participate or attend the next panel meeting in June visit here.
About NBDA: The National Bicycle Dealers Association (NBDA) is a non-profit organization representing the interests of independent bicycle dealers in the United States. Committed to advancing the bicycle industry and promoting cycling as a healthy and sustainable mode of transportation, the NBDA collaborates with industry stakeholders to address critical issues and foster growth within the cycling community.
