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- Test drive Zero S - the sporty electric motorcycle of the A1 class
Zero Motorcycles has now revised its range of e-motorcycles up to 11 kW for bikers who have an A1 or B196 driving license. The new Zero S has just arrived at dealers in Germany and I was one of the first to test drive the sporty electric motorcycle. Zero is the market leader in electric motorcycles Zero Motorbikes have been pioneers in two-wheeled e-mobility for many years. Zero has also been selling electric motorbikes in Europe since 2010, serving a very exquisite clientele. This is because the competition from renowned motorbike manufacturers, such as BMW, prefer to wait and take their time with their own electric bikes. Zero is thus positioning itself as the market leader among electric motorbikes. A good decision for the future, because according to the McKinsey Centre for Future Mobility, it is predicted that over 30% of two-wheelers worldwide will be purely electric by 2030. There is now also an electric light motorcycle offer for novice drivers with an A1 driving license or car drivers with the B196 extension. Anyone who has held a car driving license for five years and is at least 25 years old can get the extension (key number 196) by completing a total of 18 training hours of 45 minutes each. The Zero S, Zero DS and Zero FXE offer the most exceptional driving experience in their class and an absolute thrill, because the driving experience is (almost) like that of the big ones. All three models are based on the new third-generation FST platform. This offers a Bosch ABS system, traction control, a stability program and a Type 2 charging socket as standard. Brakes: a 320 double disc brake is installed at the front and a 4-piston brake system at the rear. The Zero S electric motorcycle in detail: Zero Model S: The look is identical to the "big" SRF or SR models, only the colour scheme in cool white reveals that it is the little sister. This is characterized by the following features: The cheapest model of the new motorcycles for 2024 is completely new and is powered by the new Z-Force 75-7 engine with max. 60 hp in combination with a 14.4 kWh "+" battery. The 600 amp controller is slightly smaller than the 900 amp controller of the larger machines. All of the roadster's electronics are controlled by the Zero Cypher III+ operating system. The Model S features Bosch motorcycle stability control with cornering ABS and traction control, five driving modes, Showa chassis elements and a Gates belt drive. Comparison Zero S 2021 vs. Zero S 2024 The newly launched Zero S 2024 model offers a maximum output of 60 hp, comparable to the S 2021 with 59 hp. The maximum torque of the S 2024 of 132 Newton meters offers slightly more thrust than the 92 Nm torque of the previous model S 2021. In order to dissipate heat particularly quickly, the 2024 Z-Force 75-7 has the external engine hardware of the powerful SR/F. The internal design of the engine has been optimized for maximum performance with significantly reduced weight. Overall, however, the new Zero S now weighs a little more at 223 kg. The new Zero S's Bosch Motorcycle Stability Control (MSC) optimally combines performance with intelligent and intuitive control. It is pleasing to see a price reduction to just €17,4000, which is around €1,000 less than the previous model. How do I book a test ride on the Zero S? Booking a test drive is easy and can be requested online, for example via our e-Garage , where we present numerous e-vehicles across categories. On the product details page there is information about the vehicle and the option to request a test drive. You will then receive the information and a voucher by email. I drive to the dealer at the agreed time. I have the appropriate protective clothing with me: a safe helmet, motorcycle jacket with protectors, gloves. I quickly sign the liability waiver, show my driver's license, leave my ID card and off I go. The Zero S looks stylish. Sharp edges, sporty lines. I receive detailed instructions and tips on the best places to ride so that I can try out the Zero S on country roads too. And then it starts. My driving experience on the test drive The first impression: Wow, the driving experience is like that of a "big one", the performance even in Eco mode is hardly comparable to conventional 125cc machines. The continuous rated power of 11 kW is relevant for classification as an A1 machine, but the peak power is not limited and here Zero really shows what is possible. The power really shows itself when accelerating on country roads. Oncoming bikers greet me - I feel like I'm being taken seriously, like with a powerful A2 machine and the famous permanent grin sets in. The machine is comfortable to hold, I sit in a compact and sporty position. The driving experience is good. It runs smoothly, there is no fluttering and even the bumps in the rural asphalt do not disturb the vehicle. The cornering in the roundabout is stable. The machine responds easily and quickly to the instructions I give. After a while, however, I notice a feeling of pressure on my hands due to the low handlebar position. One thing bothered me a little: the position of the footrests. At every traffic light they get in the way and my calf gets caught in them. The result: a bruise that reminds me of the great riding experience for a few days. But otherwise the ergonomics of the Zero S are just right for my height of 1.70 m, which would probably not be the case with a DS, for example, as I noticed when I tried out a DSR. I probably wouldn't have realized this without visiting the local dealer. So overall I can say that the test drive and the personal experience on the road was well worth it. You get a feel for the unique driving experience with an electric motorcycle, you can see whether the ergonomics suit you and you understand the differences to other vehicles. Conclusion: everyone should treat themselves to this driving pleasure, because a test drive is not only very informative, it is also a lot of fun! Did you like our information? Then rate us on Google.
- IAA MOBILITY 2023 – Quo Vadis?
Ein Kommentar Digitalisation, autonomous driving, sharing and electromobility - what has for some time been referred to under the acronym CASE[1] as the 4 main topic areas and challenges of the automotive industry were presented last week in Munich. And it was clear to see: The entire industry, and thus also the trade fair itself, is undergoing an all-encompassing transformation process. It is just not yet foreseeable where this will lead for the IAA and the various players. After 2021, the whole of Munich will once again become a showroom for the mobility of the future. For many years I have been fascinated by mobility in all its facets and I have already been to several IAAs, including again this year in Munich. As well as at the Intermot in Cologne, the Eurobike in Frankfurt or the e4-Testival at the Hockenheimring. Based on my impressions on site and after following the various media reports (TV, print and social) of the past few days, I would like to make a personal comment on the current situation in Germany below. (Almost) everyone knows the established car brands of the western world, first and foremost the German manufacturers BMW, Mercedes and VW with Audi and Porsche. Fiat, Peugeot, Renault, Seat, Skoda and Volvo have also been household names for many years. So have Ford and General Motors with their various brands and, more recently, perhaps the Japanese and Korean representatives such as Toyota/Lexus, Honda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Kia and Hyundai/Genesis. But who knows about the multitude of new players? Aiways, AVATR, BYD, GWM, Maxus, MG Motor, Nio, Ssangyong, XEV, Xpeng, Zeekr. Or Lucid, Polestar, Rimac? And then there is the almost daily growing number of (still) small start-ups from the micromobility and LEV sectors: ARI, CityTransformer, eGO and Microlino as well as the countless e-moped, e-bike and e-scooter manufacturers. This list shows that the world of mobility is in the middle of an all-encompassing and global process that will dramatically change our cities, our locomotion, and indeed our entire daily lives in the coming years and decades. Against the backdrop of unmistakable climate change, this is also urgently needed and often still too slow. This year's "late summer" even during the IAA may have been nice, but against the background of the many climate catastrophes in Southern Europe and on other continents it was rather a warning signal - we have to do something! At this point also a sentence on the various actions of the so-called "climate activists": Does it really make sense to block an event at which 98% emission-free vehicles were presented? And shouldn't they have followed the offer to participate in discussion rounds? Even though I share the goals of the groups, I consider the chosen forms of protest of the last months to be ineffective and even harmful to the cause. IAA MOBILITY - opportunity or challenge? So these general conditions are actually a huge opportunity for a "mobility fair" to get people in the mood for change and to bring them along. But they are also a huge challenge due to the complexity and diversity that the organisers of the IAA Mobility have created for themselves. One problem here is that the IAA was and is organised by the VDA, the (German) Association of the Automotive Industry, which is not a "neutral" institution per se. This is because "the central commitment of the VDA is to the interests of the entire German automotive industry at national and international level". This is why many representatives of public mobility services were absent, who met at the same time in Berlin at the "Zukunft Nahverkehr" event organised by Deutsche Bahn. Coincidence, intention or simply a planning mishap? Personally, my visit to the IAA Mobility 2023 left me a little perplexed - despite the bright sunshine and many visitors on all days. Do we need an event at which the exhibitors set up partly double stands - in the exhibition halls as well as in the city centre - at immense cost (and with little sustainability?)? Do we need shows, laser effects, music events and "key notes" (often with little content) around them to attract attention? Maybe we do. But maybe we should rather think about what really helps people in their everyday lives in this transformation. Because in reality, we often still experience a frightening lack of interest or even rejection of e-mobility in car dealerships. The "petrol-heads", from the top of the company to the salesman, continue to dominate and try to hold on to the old familiar (diesel engines, SUVs, horsepower show-offs, ...). However, a few seem to have discovered an opportunity for themselves and are also putting two-wheelers, from e-bikes to high-performance e-motorcycles, and other LEVs in their showrooms. If there is to be a future for the IAA Mobility, then it would have to be designed even more in cooperation with other industry associations and also show the seamless linking of different mobility offerings. Because one thing became clear in Munich: People are still very interested in innovative mobility offers and are willing to try them out and use them in everyday life. If - as propagated by the traffic light government - Germany is to become the "lead market" for electromobility, then this must also be recognisable at the leading trade fairs and in the trade. The opportunity is there - it should be used courageously and without reservations! [1] CASE stands for Connected, Autonomous, Sharing and Electrification.
- The VoWag e-load bike CARGO M for urban transport of heavy loads
In Plauen, Saxony, the mobility start-up VoWag, a subsidiary of the Sächsische Automobil Manufaktur SAM, has been building heavy e-cargo bikes for several years. Electric cargo bikes are the vehicle of the moment for many people - both for transporting their own children to kindergarten or school and for commercial use. With its CARGO M model, VoWag is drawing on experience from rally sport. The declared goal: to position one of the most robust electric bikes for commercial customers on the rapidly growing market. The VoWag CARGO M is considered a solid all-rounder that can be used for a variety of applications in commercial use due to its robustness. In doing so, the manufacturer relies on a modular approach. With its large capacity of max. 745 kg (incl. driver), the large loading area of 1.27m x 0.98m and a considerable range, the Cargo M becomes a real alternative for the electric transporter. Depending on the battery, load, temperature, driving style or topography, the CARGO M cargo bike can achieve a range of up to 200km. The loading area is designed for transporting a Euro pallet or correspondingly wide bodies. According to the manufacturer, the loading volume is approx. 1.60m³ with a loading height of 1.30m (up to 2.00m³ with a higher container). The CARGO M from VoWag relies on modular equipment The robustness of the e-Cargobike from Plauen is based on the selected components (rims, chassis, frame and drive). This makes it possible to transport enormous loads like a whole pallet with the CARGO M. Options include a container with wheels, a universal loading area with screen-printed floor or a railing as well as a "caretaker's box". Lighting, rear-view mirror, horn and splash guard, an optional mobile phone holder or a spare wheel including "jack" are part of the equipment - partly at extra cost. Thanks to this enormous loading capacity and the large loading area, a wide range of commercial applications can be found for the Cargobike from Saxony. VoWag defines its core areas of application as urban logistics, facility management and internal company use. Due to the robustness of the bike, the use of the CARGO M for rental and sharing providers is also interesting, because it is precisely here that electric vehicles are not always handled very carefully. And so we now see the CARGO M cargo bikes in many cities as logistical helpers for urban transport, as food trucks or even as promotional stands at events and conferences. This is where the many (partly optional) superstructures pay off. An e-Cargobike from urban transport helper to eye-catcher as a marketing tool - this is how electric, sustainable mobility works today.
- E-Cannonball 2023 – the best Cannonball ever, ever, Everest!
The annual highlight for electromobility fans took place last sunny September weekend in Bad Griesbach / Rottal: the E-Cannonball 2023. This is a car rally of purely electrically powered vehicles. The participants drove a good 400 km through the most beautiful areas of Bavaria and the Salzkammergut in Austria. On the route, there were sophisticated challenges that the drivers had to master. The field of participants was a colourful mix. From e-mobility-enthusiastic families to the "Who's Who" of the electric industry, everything was there, including the team Ove Kröger and Alexander Bloch in the Lucid Air battling it out with the brothers Albert & Alex Bangula („Elektrisiert“) in the Tesla Model S Plaid. Also present were Dirk Kunde (Drehmoment) and the ADAC Youtube channel team Marie and Matthias. We from Team voylt were also able to take part this year. Already on Saturday, the 73 teams presented their vehicles in the Parc Fermé. Numerous interested people came by and so an informative exchange about e-mobility topics took place. Even many doubters of the electrified future stopped by and could convince themselves of the diversity of electromobility. The vehicles were marvelled at and one or two people were able to try them out. In addition, sponsors such as Ionity, Maingau and Technagon presented themselves with information stands. Thanks to these sponsors, all participating teams were supplied with sufficient electricity free of charge during the event and also on the journey home. Many thanks for that! From small to large - the E-Cannonball presents the diversity of e-cars The starting vehicles were divided into 4 categories, based on battery size. However, one group of vehicles was very special and, as every year, marvelled at by numerous people: the Heros! These are converted or self-built vehicles, of course with road registration and TÜV, of which one would never have thought that they could cover the distance of over 400 km purely electrically. For example, a Land Cruiser FJ40, the solar-powered BoSolarCar of Bochum University or a converted VW Derby2. Nevertheless, they all made it to the finish line. The challenges were commented on by well-known Youtubers from the e-mobility scene. In the studio, Arnie Kröger, Oliver Krüger (163 Grad) and Mathias "Mate" Gruber ("Instadriver") hosted the exciting livestream from 6:30 in the morning until 19:00. On the way, they had to complete the precisely specified driving route with predefined route points. Selfies had to be taken at hotspots in the area, coins had to be minted, the longest golf swing counted, expert knowledge counted in the Ionity knowledge quiz and of course the drivers had to prove their driving skills in skill tests. The evening was concluded with a festive gala where the award ceremony for the participating teams took place. For us, it was enough for 10th place in Group 2 with our Polestar 2. Overall, the E-Cannonball was a perfectly organised e-mobility event. The community proved its cohesion: everyone helped each other and all participants were mega-sympathetic. There was a lot of laughter and everyone had a lot of fun. The only thing we were missing this year were the two-wheeled vehicles. E-mobility doesn't just mean driving an e-car. We would have liked to see more e-motorbikes, e-bikes, electric utility vehicles or e-microcars. But who knows - maybe next year we will see a Microlino, an ARI or an eRockit at the start. After all, after the E-Cannonball is before the E-Cannonball! Information about the event can be found on the E-Cannonball website.
- New Microcars: Small is coming big
Microcars are small speedsters that are now very popular with modern city dwellers, but there is also interest among young drivers. After all, the small e-cars in the L6e vehicle class can be driven from the age of 15. Manufacturers are reacting and releasing new models at attractive prices. We present the new products and compare them with the well-known light vehicles. Peel P50 is the smallest The first minicar on the European market was the Peel P50. The cute single-seater with a length of 1.34m is the smallest car in the world and was built in Great Britain between 1962 and 1965. There were 120 examples of this light vehicle with a body made of fiberglass plastic at the time. Production has since resumed and is even available as an electric version powered by four 12-volt batteries. The maximum speed is 16 km/h. This means that the Peel P50 can even drive on the sidewalk in its home country. Price: from €15,500. Opel Rocks-e: The short-distance electric car The Opel Rocks-e is a "Sustainable Urban Mobility" (SUM) – a sustainable city car. With a length of just 2.41 meters, a width of 1.39 meters (without exterior mirrors) and a weight of just 471 kilograms (including drive battery), the Opel Rocks-e the entry card into electromobility. The range is up to 75 kilometers (WLTP). Starting price from €7,990 including VAT Its French brother from the Stellantis family is the CITROËN MY AMI. In addition to the basic versions Pop, Vibe and Tonic, the series now also offers an open-air off-road variant, the BUGGY . The target group is young, cheeky and dynamic, which is also reflected in the design of the microcars. The little Frenchman is available in neighboring countries from around €9,400. Fiat Topolino provides Italian flair. Fiat has just presented its new models in a double launch. With the Topolino, the Italian manufacturer is releasing a sister model to the Citroën Ami and Opel Rocks-E. One of two soon-to-be-available variants, the Topolino Dolcevita, has now been presented. The "beautiful life" is reflected in the nice little things that the mini car has to offer: a roll-up top made of fabric, ropes instead of doors, a retro box at the rear for luggage, a fan with a USB port or beach towels and, if desired, even your own shower head. You quickly forget that the 8 hp is only enough for a top speed of 45 km/h. On the other hand, the original Topolino with its 14 hp wasn't much faster back then. Price from €7,500. By the way: From September the “SUV” will be available. Fiat 600e at the start - and here the Italians promise more space and more range. 68 years after the first 600, the Italians are relaunching the Seicento as an electric car. While the original could carry four people with an external length of just 3.29 meters, the modern 600e is almost a meter longer at 4.17 meters and offers space for five people. The manufacturer promises up to 360 liters of trunk space. We already know the look of the LED headlights from the Fiat 500e, but the entire front section is something narrower and looks like a mouth. The Fiat 600e is available in two equipment lines: RED and La Prima. Prices start at €36,490 for the 600e RED, the 600e La Prima costs at least €42,490. Renault Twizy: The microcar that didn't want to be a car. The Renault Twizy was built for twelve years. But the manufacturer is now ending production of the small electric car, which conquered the streets as a pioneer of electromobility when Tesla was still in its infancy. The design is eye-catching. The minicar doesn't have real doors and the window panes are missing - rather suboptimal in the rain and in winter. The Twizy offers something that not all moped cars have: a standard airbag for the driver. The passenger, who is positioned behind the driver, does not have this safety equipment. The Cargo version eliminates the rear seat in favor of a small trunk. The microcar promises a range of up to 100 km. The charging speed to 100% on a normal household socket is 3.5 hours. This means that the Twizy is ready for use again a little quicker than the Opel Rocks-e. There is also a faster 80 km/h version that can be driven by those aged 18 and over. However, you need a car driving license for this. The last little French is still available cheaply: price from €11,450 Microlino: the Swiss cult car aims high The cute Microlino with its retro look is finally available to order. With a rated output of 12.5 kW, a trunk volume of 230 l and a range of up to 230 km, the Microlino is, according to the manufacturer, the best in class in the European vehicle categories L7e and L6e. Its USP: the self-supporting body, which improves the quality, durability and safety compared to traditional tubular frames normally used in the L7e/L6e class. The Swiss company Micro has the attractive snog ball produced in Italy. The first deliveries of what is perhaps the most beautiful microcar on the market have already begun. An order can be placed via Microlino website possible from 21,190 €. Smart EQ fortwo Production of the electric Smart EQ has finally stopped. The two-seater model failed to establish itself. Interested parties have to hope for existing vehicles. All upcoming Smart models will be built in China / Ningbo, a metropolis about 150 kilometers from Shanghai. There Mercedes formed the 50:50 company Smart Automobile Co. Ltd. with Geely. founded that exclusively builds electric cars. The first vehicle to roll off the assembly line there is the Smart # 1. However, it belongs in a different size and price class. e.Go brings the X version: e.GO e.wave X The e.Go Life, which has been produced in Aachen since 2019, is 3.35 meters long. The new version, the e.wave X, is intended to boost sales. The Microcar is based on the 'next generation of the e.Wave electric car platform'. The look is very similar to that of the e.Go Life, but some additional parts have apparently been added to give the microcar a touch of SUV. The following variants are available: "Native" from €24,990, "Urban" from €27,990 and "Metropolitan" from €29,790. ARI 902: the microcar at a bargain price The Borna-based company ARI Motors is presenting the ARI 902 at a much cheaper price perfect solution for delivery services, small businesses and private individuals interested in an environmentally friendly mobility solution. The smart two-seater accelerates quickly up to 90 km/h and transports the driver through city traffic in a relaxed and lively manner (at an electricity price of 34 cents) for 2.99 euros per 100 km. It does not cause any direct emissions and is very economical with a consumption of just 8.8 kWh (in urban areas) or 10.0 kWh (out of urban areas). The ARI 902 is available in the “Pure”, “Cargo” and “Comfort” versions starting at €13,990 net. Elaris has modernized its small electric car The ELARIS DYO is just big enough to transport the essentials: shopping, luggage and companions - on two or four legs. But the DYO is also so small that it can go anywhere and fit anywhere. This car has no parking problems. In terms of design, the small car looks much more modern than its predecessors PIO or FINN. With its 32 kWh battery capacity, the two-seater reaches a top speed of 110 km/h. The range is an impressive 265 km (WLPT), consumption is 11.9 kWh/100 km. The luggage compartment volume is 229 l. Dimensions: 2.87 m length, 1.56 m width, 1.57 m height and 1.76 m wheelbase. The safety features that complement the range include: ABS, anti-theft alarm system, electric parking brake, electronic power steering (EPS), airbags, reversing camera and tire pressure monitoring (TPMS) provide a safe driving experience. Price: from €17,722.50, available from October 2023. The City Transformer wants to conquer the world The City Transformer CT-1, which belongs to the L7e vehicle class, can now be pre-ordered at a special price of €16,000. The highlight: The tires can be extended or retracted laterally as required (performance or city mode), thus offering an adjustable track width. Its dimensions are therefore record-breaking: 2.50 m long, 1.00 to 1.40 m wide, 1.57 m high and 1.80 m wheelbase. The mini speedster truly deserves the name Microcar. The 14 kWh battery under the vehicle floor and two 7.5 kW electric motors deliver an impressive range of 120 to 180 km and a maximum speed of 90 km/h. The battery can be fully charged again using a household socket in 3.5 hours; using a quick charger it only takes 20 minutes. With over 2,000 pre-orders and 20 million euros in financing, the electric car startup from Israel is ready to revolutionize urban mobility. XBUS - if it can be a little more The XBUS is a small electric bus in class L7e. And this microbus is rightly called a light vehicle: in fact, it only weighs 450 kg. Dimensions: 3.96 m length, 1.64 m width, 1.96 m height and 2.20 m wheelbase. The XBUS is powered by four wheel-integrated electric motors. The vehicle also has integrated solar modules to increase the range to up to 600 km. The batteries are located in "battery drawers" in the middle or at the rear. Another special feature is that there are numerous modules with which the XBUS can be individually configured, for example as a pick-up or camping bus. VDL Nedcar, one of the largest European contract manufacturers from the Netherlands, will produce the XBUS for ElectricBrands. This means the start of series production for the start-up is secured. Deliveries are scheduled to take place in 2025. Price from €18,070 Conclusion: The development of new microcars has experienced remarkable momentum in recent years. The compact vehicles have a promising future. They offer a cost-effective option for mobility, especially in densely populated cities where parking space is scarce and expensive. The low maintenance costs and economical consumption make them attractive to many consumers. They are also easy to maneuver and can weave through city traffic with ease. This saves time and stress. Performance such as consumption and range increase. In addition, the demand for sustainable means of transport is increasing. Microcars are the answer to that. With their small space requirements and environmentally friendly properties, they have the potential to sustainably revolutionize mobility in urban areas.
- CES Las Vegas 2024 - a look back
The world's largest trade fair for consumer electronics takes place annually in January at the Las Vegas Convention Centre in Winchester. With more than 4,300 exhibitors, including a record number of more than 1,400 start-ups from around the world at Eureka Park®, CES in Las Vegas showcased the innovative trends that are shaping the future and solving the world's most pressing challenges. Artificial intelligence (AI) was the main topic at CES 2024. Companies emphasised the enormous potential of AI to improve our world with innovative applications that will change the way we communicate, do business and take care of each other. This was also evident in the mobility sector. With over 600 exhibitors from the mobility sector, CES is one of the world's largest and fastest growing events in the automotive, mobility and transport sectors. Exhibitors showcased the mobility ecosystem, with new tech highlights addressing the future of autonomous vehicles, electric vehicles, micro-mobility, software-defined vehicles and flying cars, as well as the future of assistive mobility and safety systems. Exhibitors included BMW, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Magna, Mercedes, Paccar, Recaro, Sony, Supernal, Togg and Vinfast. Volkswagen has also focussed on integrating artificial intelligence to improve the comfort and safety features of its vehicles. The car manufacturer announced that it was working with its partner Cerence ChatGPT to integrate AI into the IDA voice assistant in various models, such as the ID.7 and the new Golf. Mercedes-Benz will be presenting the MBUX Virtual Assistant at CES 2024. With high-resolution game engine graphics from Unity, the "Hey Mercedes" voice assistant sets itself apart from previous systems as a visual companion. The AI-supported assistant combines the intelligent MBUX systems into a single unit and presents a new design. KIA presented a new modular van concept with a wide range of possibilities: The "Platform Beyond Vehicle" (PBV) should make it possible to take all-electric vehicles to a new level in terms of modularisation. The main body module is interchangeable and non-welded so that a vehicle can be used as a taxi, large saloon or van, for example. As a customisable platform, Kia PBVs are designed to realise the possibility of new business and lifestyles: through advanced, tailor-made interiors that offer freedom and flexibility, KIA enables unprecedented variability. But how does this work? The electromagnetic and mechanical connections can be easily detached and are to be delivered in standardised kits. KIA is starting with the PV 5, which will be available in four variants. These include a basic people carrier, a van, a high-roof variant and the chassis, which can be converted into a motorhome, for example. A robotaxi version is to follow in the future. New brands from other countries presented their sustainably orientated electric vehicles. So-called "software-defined vehicles" took centre stage, such as the Turkish manufacturer Togg with the T10F or Vinfast from Vietnam with the five models VF5, VF6, VF7, VF8 and VF9. Mobis, a subsidiary of Hyundai, is presenting Mobion, an e-car that can turn on the spot thanks to a 90-degree rotation of the wheels and enables diagonal driving - a dream for tight parking spaces. The US vehicle manufacturer Nikola Motor Company presented the new H₂ truck model "Nikola Tre FCEV", a fuel water cell truck that roars quietly over the roads and offers a range of up to 800 km. This makes it one of the longest-range, low-emission lorries in the world. BMW offered its visitors the opportunity to discover the potential of augmented reality glasses as a virtual passenger and thus experience the performance of BMW's Intelligent Personal Assistant as a vehicle expert with generative artificial intelligence. In cooperation with Valeo, BMW also presented Teleoperatet Valet Parking, which enables remote-controlled driving of the car. The "driver" sits in an external simulator and carries out the steering and drive movements there, which are then transferred to the real vehicle in real time. This enables remote-controlled parking, for example, an interesting solution for car parks. New legal framework conditions for driver monitoring systems and GSR and Euro NCAP requirements will make sensor functions mandatory in new vehicles in Europe from summer 2024. Car manufacturers must therefore use safe DMS software solutions in their vehicles. For this reason, Smart Eye and Green Hills Software have entered into a partnership. The companies offer a DMS platform that combines Smart Eye's core DMS software with Green Hills' ASIL-certified Integrity RTOS. The platform detects driver distraction and drowsiness by analysing facial expressions and eye blinks in real time. At CES 2024, Green Hills demonstrated this solution on an AM62A Sitara SoC from Texas Instruments. Magna also presented a prototype of a breath and camera-based technology. The new safety technology quickly and reliably determines whether a driver is under the influence of alcohol or not. A camera not only records pupil signals for distraction and drowsiness, but the system also recognises whether the driver has drunk too much alcohol or taken drugs. In addition, sensors are used on the steering wheel to determine the quantified alcohol and carbon dioxide content in the driver's diluted exhaled breath using built-in measuring points. The data can then be further processed and, depending on the legal situation, restrict or even prevent the driver from continuing to drive. CES Innovation Award 2024 in the Vehicle Tech & Advanced Mobility product category Continental wins the CES Innovation Award for the eighth time in a row with its "Radar Vision" parking solution. By combining high-resolution surround radars with high-resolution cameras, Continental enables parking applications that allow very precise measurements around the vehicle. The early detection of parking spaces, for example, enables the vehicle to be parked without having to drive past the space. The radar units can be mounted "invisibly" behind bumpers. Thanks to additional cameras, they offer a comprehensive 360° view around the vehicle. Conclusion of the CES Las Vegas 2024 Overall, the CES once again showed which forward-looking trends are having a decisive influence on the development of the modern vehicle industry. Even flying cars could be admired as studies in the exhibition halls. It was a pity that only three German car manufacturers - BMW, Mercedes and Volkswagen - were represented at the event. A visible presence of German solutions would certainly be desirable. Did you like our information? Then rate us on Google.
- All in one - the STEEREON C30 impresses in all respects
The Cologne-based start-up PLEV Technologies GmbH has achieved a lot since it was founded in 2018. The idea for the STEEREON, a handy lifestyle electric vehicle for the city that is fun to drive and can be transported anywhere, emerged from a study project. The three founders from Cologne laid the foundation for their success story. We visited PLEV Technologies in Cologne and were able to extensively test a STEEREON C30 for a fortnight. Electric mobility - Made in Cologne The company's headquarters are inconspicuously hidden in a backyard in the Kalk district of Cologne. But once you enter the halls, the world of STEEREON opens up to you. Vehicles in all variants are ready for collection. A small showroom in one corner, the office area with the creative minds in another. You can tell straight away that this is all about the essentials - the STEEREON. Production takes place in another hall. The STEEREON is manufactured by hand - Made in Cologne. Every move is perfect. And this is reflected in the quality and high value of the vehicle. On site, we get an impression of the many development stages of the STEEREON. The guys are constantly working on improvements and optimisations in order to fulfil the wishes of the customers. There are now numerous features that can be considered in the customised configuration. An extensive range of accessories completes the multifunctional e-vehicle. But more on this later in the practical test. We then receive our test vehicle, a fully equipped STEEREON C30 Long Range, and are given a detailed introduction to the vehicle. Incidentally, this is a service that everyone who collects a STEEREON receives. This ensures that every vehicle is ideally adjusted to the new owner's body size and driving behaviour. We can take a first spin in the backyard and realise that driving a STEEREON C30 is child's play. The controls are intuitive and leave nothing to be desired. Then we stow the handy vehicle and its accessories in the boot and say goodbye to the 2-week test phase. Would you also like to test drive the STEEREON C30? Arrange your test drive with STEEREON now. Our STEEREON C30 in detail: Pro version Motor: 48 volt motor with planetary gearbox (Bafang) 500 W continuous rated power / peak approx. 900 W Torque: 65 Nm Climbing ability: ~20 % Battery: 2 lithium-ion batteries with 556 Wh each (1 active and 1 range extender attached to the frame), both lockable Frame attachment for the range extender Nominal battery voltage: 48V Charging time: approx. 4 hours per battery Range: up to 2x 40 km, 80 km in total Folding mechanism rear wheel Suspension seat post Frame lock from Abus incl. textile-coated chain and bag Colour: grey Weight: 22.0 kg incl. 1 battery Permissible total weight: 150 kg Tyre size: front 18", rear 14" Pneumatic tyres front + rear with puncture protection Hydraulic disc brakes front + rear LED headlights front + rear with brake light indicators Control unit: LED display with USB port, code immobiliser and horn Luggage carrier Klickfix adapter for baskets Basket for luggage carrier and basket for handlebars from Reisenthel Mobile phone holder Rear-view mirror, mudguards and kick plates for standing up are included as standard What exactly is a STEEREON C30? The design is quite extraordinary. And the longer I look at the vehicle, the more difficult I find it to answer the question: What is the STEEREON actually? An e-bike without pedals or an e-scooter with a seat? Or a lightweight moped with a folding mechanism? Somehow the STEEREON C30 is everything in one, a hybrid with the best features of all light vehicle classes combined. We put the STEEREON C30 through its paces in dry and cool 9 degree autumn weather. The first impression is positive. The seating position is upright, the sprung seat module and the ergonomic handles are comfortable. All switches are clearly visible. The cables are textile-covered and securely packaged, so nothing flutters around loosely. The components used make a very high-quality impression. Established brand manufacturers supply various components: Selle Royal seat, Abus lock, Racktime pannier rack, Klick-Fix luggage mounts - that speaks for quality. Extensive and well thought-out accessories available Many components are already included as standard in the basic version, such as the footrests, mudguards or the colour display with extensive setting options and information, including the time - not everyone has that! STEEREON also offers a wide range of optional features that can be customised. The add-ons are not a must, but they perfect the electric multifunctional vehicle into a real all-rounder for every situation. Indicators Rear-view mirror Twist grip Mobile phone holder Abus lock alarm system Suspension seat Luggage carrier with 25 kg load capacity Panniers & baskets twist throttle The Steereon is fun to ride with power and vigour on short journeys When I first set off, I intuitively want to put my feet on the pedals - but there are none. You simply rest your feet on the pedal plates - very relaxed, very easy. The drive is controlled via the thumb throttle. The modes can be set individually and the rider decides on the colour display in the basic settings whether they want to choose between 3, 5 or 9 different power levels. We opted for 5 levels. Acceleration is comfortable at the lowest level, with a top speed of 15 km/h. This then increases with each level and in level 5 you reach 30 km/h, or even up to a maximum of 32 km/h, which is permitted by law. This is a top speed for the city, as more and more local authorities are now introducing 30 km/h zones. A STEEREON is right up there at the front. The speed shown on the display is very accurate. The GPS measurement only shows a minimal deviation of 1 to 2 km/h. The torque is particularly powerful at the highest level, almost lifting the front wheel where the hub motor is located. This creates a wow effect! On wet roads, the front wheel can spin, but you quickly get the hang of adjusting the throttle correctly. If you prefer to operate the drive with a twist grip, you can configure alternative handlebar grips as an option. The STEEREON C30 can be ridden sitting down or standing up - depending on your preference. It is extremely smooth-running and the lightness emphasises the lively riding character. It is silent on the road. The ride is very comfortable on flat stretches of road. A slalom course can be driven smoothly in small bends. The STEEREON is characterised by its amazing manoeuvrability. However, on gravel or cobbled paths, the relatively small wheels mean that the vibrations are transferred to the handlebars and rider via the frame, which can be a little bumpy. The maximum climbing ability is 20%, even with a maximum load the STEEREON still manages 15%. Although the speed then slows down a little, we always maintained the 20 km/h uphill. That's a top value! About the range: You have the choice between two different battery strengths - 556 Wh and 655 Wh. According to the WLPT, this gives you a range of up to 40 km or 50 km. However, this is under optimum conditions: flat asphalt road, no additional load, rider weight up to 70 kg, optimum tyre pressure, warm temperatures and sunshine. We tested the STEEREON C30 in the cool autumn and did not go easy on it. Our test routes included a few inclines and we maxed out the permissible total weight. The 556 Wh battery lasted for just under 20 kilometres. Thanks to the second battery, however, we always made it to our destination. Would you like to test ride the STEEREON C30? Book your free test ride with STEEREON now. Easy to stow away in just 3 easy steps The patented folding mechanism is well thought out from front to back. The handlebar is folded down to the side and the rear wheel is folded under the frame. The seat post can also be removed. This means that the STEEREON C30 can be easily transported in the boot. We didn't even have to fold down the rear seat of the BYD Atto 3. This is a huge advantage, as it makes it easy to take the STEEREON with you when travelling or on public transport. As soon as the handlebars are folded down, the vehicle is no longer considered ready to drive and is therefore classed as luggage. New: purchase the STEEREON C30 as a job scooter A brand new offer is now also available for STEEREON vehicles: purchase your STEEREON via salary conversion and save up to 46% compared to a normal purchase. You can drive a STEEREON from around €50 per month. At the end of the leasing period, you can purchase the vehicle for a small residual amount. Fully comprehensive insurance and a service package are also included. The purchase process is completed quickly and only requires the approval of your employer. Cooperation with our partner Eleasa is possible here. Who is the STEEREON C30 suitable for? The Steereon C30 is an extraordinary means of transport and a real eye-catcher and fun vehicle. This makes the e-vehicle suitable for anyone who is looking for something special and wants to travel sustainably and electrically. Anyone who values high-quality workmanship made in Germany and wants a vehicle that cuts a fine figure in any situation is well advised to opt for a Steereon. The STEEREON C30 is an urban mobility marvel, ideal for the city and short trips. On longer tours, the seating comfort suffers somewhat, but that is certainly a matter of getting used to. The STEEREON C30 is ideal as a mobility aid or as an additional vehicle when camping. It is small and light, but guarantees reliable travelling from A to B without much effort. With its numerous accessories, the STEEREON C30 is ideal for commuting to work or for daily shopping. You can even transport a crate of drinks on the carrier. Häufig gestellte Fragen zum STEEREON C30 The Steereon C30 is of course also available in our e-shop. You can get a personalised offer there. Now in the big winter sale, attractive discounts are available until the end of the year. Save up to €747. It's worth it.
- EICMA 2023 - electric motorbikes are on the move
The highlight for two-wheeler enthusiasts is the Italian motorbike trade fair, which celebrates the highlights and premieres of new two-wheeler models once a year. This year's EICMA was once again an absolute crowd-puller. 563,848 visitors stormed the Milan halls from 7 to 12 November 2023 - a record number of visitors! Electric motorbikes were also present. We show you what EICMA 2023 had to offer in terms of electric mobility. Zero expands its range with 125cc models The DS and S series are now available with 48 hp and as "125s" - with up to 60 hp, a powerful 132 Nm and 140 km/h. This level of performance is new in the A1 class of electric motorbikes. Zero is thus recognising the trend that can also be seen in Germany right now: the 125cc class is gaining in popularity, because thanks to the B 196 driving licence extension without a test, any driver over the age of 25 can enjoy the pleasure of riding the faster motorbikes with little effort. A range of 242 kilometres for the S and 239 kilometres for the DS are exceptionally good figures. This comes at a price: in 2024, the new Zero S will still cost €17,400, while the new Zero DS will cost €18,400. The DSR, with its more powerful engine as an A2 motorbike, has also been optimised for use on the road and off-road. There is also the 2024 version of the SR naked bike, which has a new technical basis and has now been positioned in the A2 driving licence category within the model range. A premium version is also to be added to the upper-class adventure bike DSR/X: The DSR/X Black Forest Edition will then come with an accessory package as standard, including a luggage system, crash bars, centre stand, fog lights, a touring screen and other upgrades. The new Zero SR and DSR models can also be upgraded to the performance level of driving licence class A at the dealer. Vmoto APD Max by Pininfarina: Electric maxi scooter for the 125cc class The prototype, which is now ready for series production, is set to go into production in the near future. Although the electric motorbike scooter is still at the concept stage, it has already been implemented very realistically. The design of the Vmoto APD Max is reminiscent of the already available BMW CE 04 model, with optimised aerodynamics playing a key role in both vehicles in order to achieve the longest possible range. A continuous power output of 11 kW (15 hp) can be expected, which is relevant for classification in the 125cc class. The battery is housed under the seat bench for 2 people. 15" wheels give the e-scooter stable handling. Royal Enfield presents its first electric motorbike concept at EICMA 2023 Royal Enfield from India is already successful on the conventional motorbike market in Europe. In future, the Indian manufacturer with English roots would also like to present itself on the electric motorbike market and is presenting its first electric motorbike concept, the Royal Enfield Electric Himalayan Testbed, also known as the Him-E, at EICMA 2023. Visually, the electric Himalayan roughly follows the successful combustion version. The name says it all: the electric touring enduro is mainly developed and tested in the Himalayas. According to the manufacturer, the market launch could be in 2025/2026. NIU expands its vehicle fleet The Chinese manufacturer NIU is presenting three all-electric innovations at EICMA 2023. An off-road motorbike, a light motorbike and an all-round motorbike for the city. The road-legal electric dirt bike NIU XQi3 is made for off-road adventures and city traffic. Equipped with a 72V 32Ah LG lithium-ion battery, it offers up to 8 kW and an ultra-boost function for additional power. The XQi3 is DOT and EC certified in Europe thanks to its licence plate holder, lights, indicators and side mirrors. With a range of up to 90 km per charge, it is compatible with all European L1e motorbike licences and is available in two versions: road-legal (XQi3 Street) and off-road (XQi3 Wild). The colour palette offers the colours purple, white, yellow and black. Customers can also personalise their bike with the stickers included in the scope of delivery. Both versions of the XQi3 will be available in Europe from May 2024 from €5,999 (RRP). The SQi is an elegant lightweight moped that will be available from 2024. It received the RedDot Design Award in 2023 for its futuristic design. Its die-cast unibody frame combines easy handling and simple functionality, with no welded seams. With a top speed of 45 km/h and a range of 95 km, the SQi offers a pleasant riding experience in city traffic. The RQi is an electric city motorbike that offers sportiness, modern design and intelligent functions. With two removable 72 V 36 Ah batteries, it achieves a maximum output of up to 18 kW and a top speed of 110 km/h. The e-motorbike has an ABS braking system, traction control and front and rear cameras with impact detection. It also offers a keyless system, GPS tracking, navigation and over-the-air updates. The RQi will be available from the first quarter of 2024 at a starting price of €7,999 (RRP) in NIU flagship stores and from dealers. Volt Lacama at the EICMA 2023: An electric motorbike from Italy wants to conquer Europe The Italian Volt Lacama 2.0 is to be presented at the EICMA in November 2023 as a customisable small-series electric motorbike with 150 hp and a top speed of 230 km/h and will then be delivered to customers from spring 2024. With the Italian Volt Lacama - the name was derived from a chameleon - the manufacturer is now finally looking to take off on the market after years of development. In "Rocket" mode, the Lacama should be able to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.4 seconds thanks to 230 Nm. The top speed is 230 km/h - a peak performance of the 110 kW (150 hp) motor. Battery cells from Samsung, combined with control electronics and a special liquid cooling system from Tazzari, should enable a range of over 200 kilometres, and even up to 257 kilometres in city traffic. The Italian Volt Lacama can already be configured online from around 30,000 euros (29,800 euros plus tax), and Tazzari plans to manufacture and deliver from spring 2024. Horwin presents the SENMENTI and an electric action bike The latest member of the Horwin family celebrates its world premiere: SENMENTI. The name is derived from the Chinese pronunciation of the word for "organism", explains Wendsor Zhou Wei, CEO and founder of HORWIN. He is referring to the built-in intelligent electronics that learn. For example, the SENMENTI 0 automatically adapts to its owner's driving style and increases energy efficiency. Over 30 sensors and cameras on the vehicle collect information in real time and thus increase safety. The SENMENTI 0 is equipped with an ABS braking system, an anti-skid system, tyre pressure sensors and a collision warning system, among other things. Hill start, start and reverse assist, rear air suspension, various driving modes, keyless go, an intelligent camera for automatic photo recording and heated seats and handles increase driving comfort. The performance is impressive. The SENMENTI 0 has a top speed of 200 km/h and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.8 seconds. At an average speed of 88 km/h, the maximum range is an impressive 300 kilometres. Thanks to the Super Charger function, the vehicle can charge its battery from 0 to 80 per cent in just 30 minutes at any e-car fast charging station (400 V). Bidirectional charging is also possible. The battery can supply power to camping equipment or other e-vehicles, for example. The vehicle is expected to go on sale in mid-2024. HT5 is the name of the first electric enduro from Chinese manufacturer Horwin. In addition to a pure off-road version, two road-legal variants with different ranges are also planned. In the best case scenario, the 8 kW/11 hp HT5 should be able to travel up to 150 kilometres. Prices start at around 7,500 euros. Harley Davidson continues on the road to success with the Livewire One In 2018, Harley Davidson presented a purely electric power cruiser at the EICMA motorbike trade fair in Milan. At the time, the first electric Harley attracted a lot of attention and the Livewire bike was expected to cost just under 33,000 euros. The model name of the motorbike has since become the brand name, as the traditional American brand founded the subsidiary Livewire EV with the motorbike brand of the same name in 2021. The manufacturer has also been on the market in Europe since April 2023. There are initially six locations nationwide. To this end, Livewire is travelling around the country on promotional tours. The first and only model for the time being is the naked bike Livewire One. Alrendo TS Bravo: Electric power cruiser At around 12,000 euros, the TS Bravo from the new Chinese brand Alrendo is comparatively inexpensive. The single-track power cruiser-style bike combines a 20 kW/27 hp electric motor with a 17.4 kWh battery. Although the bike can only travel at a maximum speed of 135 km/h, it has a range of 160 to 438 kilometres. However, the maximum range is only achieved at a constant 50 km/h. Charging takes just under four hours from a household socket. In keeping with its modern look, the TS Bravo offers a 7-inch display as an information centre. Verge TS points the way to the future Thanks to its futuristic design, the Verge TS from Finnish start-up Verge Motorcycles looks like a motorbike from a science fiction film. A special feature in terms of design and function is the bike's hubless rear wheel, which integrates the ring-shaped electric motor into the rim. The basic model of the bike, which costs around 33,000 euros, offers 80 kW of power. Just as impressive as the price are the key data of the Verge TS with 700 Newton metres, 20.2 kWh and a range of 250 kilometres. With 102 kW/139 hp and a 20.2 kWh battery, the TS Pro costs around 37,000 euros. The top-of-the-range model is the TS Ultra, which costs around 55,000 euros. With 150 kW/204 hp and 1200 Newton metres, the Ultra offers plenty of power and a range of up to 375 kilometres thanks to its 21.8 kWh battery capacity. It also has fast-charging technology that allows it to be recharged in 25 minutes. The electric motorbikes can already be configured and ordered, and the first deliveries have now been announced for spring 2024. Ducati delivers top electric performance The first electric Ducati V21L is a unique motorbike that is completely different from previous zero-emission racing motorbikes and will compete in the FIM MotoE™ World Cup from 2023. Developed in complete synergy by Ducati and Ducati Corse engineers, it incorporates unprecedented technical solutions for the battery, motor and inverter. The electric prototype, with its special livery inspired by Ducati's sporting history, has already wowed the public at the IAA MOBILITY in Munich.
- Voyah free - a new e-car celebrates its premiere in Europe
A new Chinese car brand is conquering the European car market: Voyah is the premium label launched in 2021 by the state-owned Dongfeng Group. The electric luxury SUV is being launched on the European market under the name Voyah free. The new electric car from Asia is already available in Norway and is just starting to be marketed in Switzerland. Austria and Germany will follow next year. The as yet unknown electric saloon is in the same class as the Mercedes EQS SUV, Audi Q8 e-tron, BMW iX, as well as the Nio EL7 and Tesla X. We present the newcomer from China. Voyah Free impresses with solid values A new premium-class e-car wants to conquer the European continent. Chinese car manufacturers have now learnt what European buyers value. The key data of the Voyah Free: 2 motors with a total of 360 kW / 489 hp Torque 720 Nm Top speed 200 km/h Trailer coupling with 2,000 kg towing capacity Boot capacity 560 l / Frunk 72 l Ternary lithium battery with 106 kWh Range 500 km AC charging with 11 kW DC charging with max. 100 kW Price expected to be €76,990 gross The design is classically luxurious. The new e-car Voyah Free is a touring car with plenty of comfort. The components are of high quality. The design shows similarities to other luxury brands such as Porsche or Maserati. The relatively flat body is very aerodynamic for an SUV and gives the car a good drag coefficient. In terms of colour scheme, Voyah prefers the classic blue, green and grey tones, as well as black and white. The interior features comfortable faux leather seats with contrasting topstitching, while the interior panelling is also finished in sustainable faux leather or faux wood. Space is comfortable thanks to an overall length of 4.91 metres and a wheelbase of 2.96 metres. There is plenty of legroom and headroom. The carpeted boot also offers 560 litres of space for luggage and other items. The rear seats can also be folded down, increasing the capacity to 1,320 litres. The additional frunk under the front bonnet offers storage space for charging cables and accessories. The cockpit is modern and offers a special highlight: once the engine has been started, the digital touch display rises automatically, thus increasing its usable surface area. There are numerous settings here that can be customised. Unfortunately, the on-board language is only available in English, but this will certainly be updated in the coming months. The usability of the climate settings is a positive feature, as they are not hidden in the display but can be accessed via haptic switches - a classic element favoured by Europeans. Voyah Free - the new e-car for comfortable travelling A powerful all-wheel drive provides powerful driving behaviour. 360 kW / 489 hp and a torque of 720 Newton metres (310 at the front, 410 at the rear) provide plenty of power. The Voyah Free accelerates from a standstill to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds and is capable of speeds of up to 200 km/h. Assistance systems are available as standard, although they switch off from 130 km/h. With the six driving modes Eco, Comfort, Performance, Off-Road, Snow and Individual, the driving behaviour of the Free can be individually adjusted. On the road, the adaptive air suspension with 100 millimetres of spring travel, a double-wishbone front axle and a multi-link axle give the 2.3-tonne Voyah Free a pleasant ride. Thanks to the battery with a capacity of 106 kilowatt hours, the car should be able to cover a range of up to 500 WLTP kilometres. Voyah specifies an optimistic average consumption of 20.2 kWh/100 km. When it comes to fast charging, however, the Chinese have a pronounced safety mindset: 100 kW maximum charging power makes a stop at the charging station a test of patience. But thanks to the sophisticated infotainment system, it is easy to bridge the gap of around 45 minutes when charging from 20 to 80 %. Sales launch in Germany in 2024 In Switzerland, the comfort SUV is available for CHF 70,000. According to the BAFA listing, the German RRP is set at €76,990. The electric touring saloon will be sold online and via showrooms. The start-up Noyo Mobility, founded by experienced car manager Dr Daniel Kirchert (BMW, Byton, Infiniti), will take care of the import and set up a service network. Further models from the Chinese car manufacturer will then gradually follow: a luxury van for 7 people, a Gran Turismo and a somewhat smaller SUV.
- Black Week Sale: manufacturers and retailers present lucrative offers
At the end of the year, many suppliers are once again enticing customers to their online shops with attractive offers for the big Black Week Sale. There are discounts and reductions on accessories. It's worth taking a look at the websites of manufacturers and retailers. We provide an overview of where you can save how much. Black Week offers at a glance: Sushi Bike* invites you to become a member of the biker gang "Bikers for Future". As a gang member, you will benefit from even better offers and exclusive discounts next week. BLACK WEEK bei ROSE Bikes*: Get the Black Week offers now from the categories bikes, clothing, parts & accessories and save in the Black Sale. Up to -40 % on many different bikes. The promotion takes place from 17.11.2023 at 11 am until 28.11.2023. The Black Bike Days* at Fahrrad-XXLde* statt. will take place from 18.11.2023 up to and including 27.11.2023. During this promotion, thousands of items will be radically reduced in price. Steereon invites its customers to the winter sale. Depending on the configuration, savings of up to €747 are possible. TheEgret Black Week* takes place this year from 15.11.-27.11.2023. Egret is giving anyone who buys an e-scooter (Egret Pro, Egret X/X+ or Egret One) on my-egret.com during this period the Egret mate by tex-lock worth €139. The lock is automatically added to the shopping basket with a 100% discount as soon as an e-scooter is included. Jeep Bikes* reduces the price of the Jeep SUV e-bike ULM 7000 by €1,200. There is also a free helmet and free shipping. That makes a total saving of €1,328.90. The delivery time is only 3 - 5 working days. Where does Black Week come from? In the USA, there is a specific day that marks the start of the Christmas shopping season: Black Friday. Black Friday is scheduled for the Friday after Thanksgiving, the fourth Thursday in November. There are several theories of origin for the term "Black Friday". The following etymological explanations are considered the most popular: The name may stem from the fact that the crowds on the streets and in the shopping centres appear like a single black mass from a distance. This could also be an allusion to the chaos following the stock market crash of 1929, when many people tried to withdraw their savings from their bank at the last minute ("bank run"). Another theory is that on this high-turnover day, retailers have the chance to get out of the red - in other words, to be in the black instead of the red. This year, Black Friday is on 24th of November. But as always, the special offers, deals and discounts start before then. Many retailers turn it into a whole week of special offers and call it Black Week. While Black Friday in the USA mainly takes place in bricks-and-mortar retail stores, in Germany most of the discounts are offered online. Black Friday has been taking place on a larger scale in Germany since 2013. Apple was the first company to advertise discounts on Black Friday in 2006. Since then, the discount battle has continued to grow in popularity and is now the most popular time to find bargains worldwide. The links marked with an asterisk (*) are so-called commission links. If you click on such a link and place an order via this link, voylt will receive a commission from your purchase.
- Brekr Model B - a bike that brings joy
An e-moped in a class of its own that is fun to ride, looks stylish and causes positive amazement wherever it goes - that's the BREKR Model B. It's an electric moped that will put a smile on your face - and not just yours! We tested the Dutch electric moped (L1e class) and we weren't the only ones who were amazed at what this bike has to offer. The Brekr team lives the passion for electric riding The Dutch start-up Brekr from Doetinchem in the Netherlands began developing the unique motorbike in 2018. Jasper Hagedorn is in charge of development, while Ivo Roos is responsible for the extraordinary design. Together with a few other enthusiasts, they created an electric moped that has never been seen before. The look is unconventional, yet logical. The dynamics are noticeable and the riding experience is light yet lively. Brekken means having maximum fun in the language of the Achterhoek. "Høken, brekken and angoan" are often mentioned in the same sentence, which means having a lot of fun. A Brekr celebrates life. Brekr Model B: Powerful motor with a long range Thanks to its sophisticated aluminium frame, the Brekr Model B weighs around 30 kg less than comparable mopeds. This has a positive effect on the range. The removable battery (2 kWh capacity) lasts for around 50 to 70 kilometres, which is a considerable range. Optionally, you can stow a second battery under the seat. The battery takes around 4 to 5 hours to charge. A powerful hub motor is located in the rear wheel. This provides 2.5 kW continuous power and 4 kW peak power. The drive is therefore directly on the wheel, so there is no chain or belt. This results in an almost noiseless drive with plenty of power. Only the sound generator (AVAS) provides a background noise that warns passers-by that the electric moped is approaching. Brekr also relies on high-quality components such as the tyres, suspension fork and braking system. The latter is capable of recuperation and is therefore able to convert kinetic energy into electrical energy when braking. This leads to even more range. The design is convincing The aluminium frame has a purist design. The construction is simple yet ingenious. An open frame construction includes the battery storage. The saddle for two people seems to float. A powerfully designed diagonal connects the handlebars and front wheel with the rear section. This diagonal can be customised with a colour trim - simply choose your favourite colour. This can also be done retrospectively, so you can give your Model B a new look depending on your mood. However, there is hardly any storage space in the Brekr. The battery compartment is full with two batteries, leaving only space for the vehicle documents. A thin rain jacket can be stored in front of the seat in the small open storage compartment with a perforated pattern and rubber straps. However, this type of storage is not suitable for the weather-protected transport of important items. The side stand is stable. There is no main stand at all. The LED is bright and illuminates the surroundings very well. As a supplement to the bike itself, there is the Brekr app, which uses the GPS module installed in the bike to record the journeys travelled, show the location of the bike and can issue warnings in suspicious circumstances - for example, if the bike is moved when parked. Use of the app is free for the first year after purchase, after which it costs €5.95 per month or you can opt for a discounted annual subscription. Operating the e-moped is simple and intuitive. All switches are within easy reach on the handlebars. Key Facts: Price: from € 5,149 Weight: 78 kg incl. 1 battery (10.8 kg) Battery capacity: 2 kWh Max. Power: 4 kW Torque: 140 Nm Range: 50-80 km Wheel size: 17" Driving licence category: AM Current delivery time: 1-3 weeks Riding behaviour: Turn the key to the right, pull the brake once to switch from neutral mode to driving mode, and the Brekr Model B is ready to ride. There are four driving modes available, with a reasonably noticeable difference between them on several levels. In the weakest mode 1, acceleration is leisurely and you really need a running start to reach 45 km/h - uphill, the top speed is only 40 km/h. In the strongest mode 4, the Brekr accelerates well from a standstill and the acceleration is strong. 45 km/h is then also quickly reached uphill and, according to the speedometer, the bike runs even faster on the flat and downhill. The deviation between the displayed speedometer speed and the measured GPS value is just under 10%, which corresponds to a normal tolerance. The e-moped is very comfortable to ride, the suspension is soft, which is noticeable as soon as you sit on it. The suspension deflection when braking and accelerating takes some getting used to. With the strong torque of 140 Nm, the rear wheel is noticeably retracted during acceleration and relaxes again when the throttle is released. When changing speed quickly, this can cause a little rocking and following road users may be surprised by the moving rear wheel. The handling is ideal for beginners due to the light weight of the vehicle. Only the steering angle is relatively limited, making tight bends more difficult to negotiate. This is also noticeable when manoeuvring. The large profiled tyres provide safety on the road and make the moped easy to steer. Starting off is lively, sometimes even too lively. The torque is decent and the bike length is relatively short at 1900 mm. Those who love wheelies will get their money's worth here. The seat has a retro look and lacks an ergonomic seat. This can be a little uncomfortable on longer rides. Depending on your height, the rider slides so far back that there is not much room for a pillion passenger. The brakes grip well. But be careful: the brake levers are arranged differently than usual: the right lever controls the rear wheel disc brake, the left lever the front wheel. But you soon get used to it. Accessories: Brekr offers a range of accessories that can be purchased directly with the bike. These include a mobile phone holder that allows the mobile phone to be securely attached to the handlebars. There is also a stylish jet helmet, weather protection cover, a lock or an optional second mirror for a better view to the rear. Incidentally, this is mandatory in Germany, otherwise you could face a fine of €15. Tops Acceleration and driving dynamics Fun and manoeuvrable handling Range Striking purist design Flops Display difficult to read in direct sunlight Seating comfort on long journeys Little storage space Conclusion of the Brekr Model B test: The Brekr Model B is a stylish city moped with a strikingly good design. Wherever we went, we struck up a conversation with passers-by who marvelled at the Model B. The exchange with people interested in e-mobility was really fun. You stand out with this e-moped - in a positive sense! The handling is agile and fun. The range is decent and corresponds to the manufacturer's specifications. The app functions are above average and a great addition. It's a shame that use is only free for the first year. Points are only deducted for the lack of storage space and seating comfort on long journeys. However, the city moped is not designed for this. The Brekr Model B is ideal for cruising short distances from A to B. A clear recommendation to buy.
- Kumpan comes back with the Ignite
The insolvency of the manufacturer Kumpan in February 2023 was a shock for the e-mobility industry and especially for many owners of the popular electric scooters. For many months, it was unclear what would happen to the Kumpan brand and how the e-scooters that had already been delivered could continue to be serviced. However, the new owner - Lohia E-mobility GmbH - has now announced a new start with the further developed Ignite model. The new owner, who comes from India, has acquired the and is rebuilding the company not far from the old site in Remagen. The Kumpan electric brand is now backed by a twenty-strong team with a great enthusiasm for two-wheelers. Here we present the innovations that are planned and what this means for existing customers. The Kumpan Ignite in a new guise The new Kumpan products focus on riding fun, reliability and an appealing exterior design. The relaunch is taking place with a further developed electric scooter in the L3e class. The top-of-the-range Kumpan Ignite model (the model designation now without the 54 suffix) with a top speed of up to 100 km/h has been given a facelift and improved technical features that promise greater reliability. "In an electric vehicle, the battery plays by far the most important role in maintaining the fun factor over a long period of time. That's why we are introducing a modern, high-performance battery system," explains Michael Jung, new Managing Director at the Remagen site. Improved plug connections on the underside guarantee a reliable power supply. Charging from 20 to 80 per cent should take within two hours per battery. The vehicle is powered by a 7 kW electric motor with a peak output of 12 kW and a maximum torque of 141 Nm. Finally on offer: the optional side stand. The vehicle has undergone numerous quality optimisations, such as higher-quality steel components with improved corrosion resistance and a revised 7-inch touch display. The Ignite bears the new brand emblem and new lettering and is expected to be available to order in March 2024 in three paint colours: cream white, baccara black and lava grey with matt black trim elements. The realignment of the Kumpan brand is thus symbolised by a revised vehicle design and a new word and figurative mark. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in June 2024. Sales will take place via the main site in Remagen, as well as via an expanded dealer network in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Luxembourg, Belgium and the Netherlands, which is currently being set up. The final prices will be announced at a later date. Kumpan is now offering services for existing customers Another piece of good news is the resumption of service activities for existing customers. Maintenance and repairs can now be carried out in Remagen by prior appointment. For customers with a long journey to Remagen, vehicle collections and deliveries are possible via a haulage partner. This means that assistance with defects is also guaranteed for older models. About Lohia E-mobility Founded in 2023 by Gaurav Lohia and based in Remagen, Lohia E-mobility GmbH is a German independent unit of the globally operating manufacturer of industrial weaving machines, composite components and injection moulded plastic parts Lohia Group from Kanpur, India, a globally successful family business with branches in 8 countries. The Lohia family already has experience with motorised two-wheelers and brought the Vespa to India in the 1980s. Under the label LML (Lohia Machinery Limited), it produced Vespa licence replicas for the Indian market. Lohia E-mobility now also develops and assembles electric scooters for the European market in Germany and sells them under the Kumpan electric brand. Further information can be found on the Kumpan electric website.












