Rivian Spinoff Launches $4,500 Modular E-Bike

Also: Rivian's New Micromobility Venture

The genesis of Also, a new company originating from Rivian, began with a fundamental question posed by its engineering team: what components should be developed internally? This inquiry arose as the team initiated work on an electric micromobility solution several years ago, as recounted by Rivian’s founder and CEO, RJ Scaringe.

Scaringe explained that a decision was made to internally manufacture all essential elements. He, who also serves on Also’s board, emphasized this approach was crucial for achieving optimal results.

Introducing the TM-B Electric Bike

Unveiled Wednesday at an event in Oakland, the initial product is the TM-B, a pedal-assist electric bike. According to Scaringe and Also president Chris Yu, this represents more than just a bicycle; it’s the foundation for a broader range of micro-mobility products.

Also showcased two additional quad vehicles during the event, with one specifically intended for deployment by Amazon.

While appearing as a conventionally designed e-bike, the TM-B incorporates subtle, yet significant, features. Yu asserts that the underlying technology is what distinguishes it within the competitive e-bike landscape.

TM-B Trim Levels and Pricing

The TM-B will be available in three configurations: a launch edition, a performance trim, and a base model.

The launch edition mirrors the performance trim in specifications, offering an approximate 100-mile range, ten levels of pedal assist, air suspension for both the front and rear, and two distinct ride modes, including a “sport” mode for enhanced speed.

Priced at $4,500, the launch edition features unique color options – a purple ube and a vibrant blue – and will be available this spring.

The performance trim, also retailing for $4,500, is slated for release in the first half of 2026.

The base model, with a range of up to 60 miles, five assist levels, coil and air shock suspension, and a single ride mode, is projected to cost under $4,000 when it launches in the latter half of next year, as stated by Yu.

Key Features and Specifications

All TM-B models are equipped with integrated front and rear LED lighting, complete with turn signals, and boast a top speed of 28 miles per hour.

A unique “biomotion” design illuminates the rider’s legs during pedaling, enhancing visibility. The bike features 24-inch wheels and can be customized with all-terrain tires and a trail ride mode for increased rider control.

The battery is easily removable and supports USB-C fast charging at up to 240 watts, allowing users to charge external devices.

Enhanced Security Measures

An integrated security system safeguards both the battery and the bike itself. Upon the rider’s departure, the system automatically locks the battery, wheels, and frame.

Tampering triggers an alert sent to the rider’s smartphone via the Also app, accompanied by a loud audible alarm.

The alarm can also be activated manually by the rider while navigating urban environments.

“In the event of unauthorized movement, users receive a push notification, leveraging LTE and GPS for real-time location tracking,” Yu explained during the presentation.

In extreme cases, if the bike is physically stolen, the owner can remotely disable it.

“The bike can be rendered inoperable,” Yu stated. “This is possible because we control every component, from the circuit boards to the software and all the parts, ensuring complete inaccessibility.”

Inside the Technology of the TM-B

The Also team developed all components, frequently with early support from Rivian. This includes the detachable battery, power electronics, software systems, and firmware.

A pedal-by-wire propulsion system is also incorporated, eliminating any direct mechanical link between the rider’s pedaling action and the bike’s movement.

This innovative system facilitates regenerative braking, enabling power to be returned to the battery during deceleration.

According to Also CTO Jonathan Hall, the tools necessary for constructing these elements were also designed internally, as he shared with TechCrunch prior to the unveiling.

All trim levels feature distinctive design and functional elements, notably a central touchscreen display seamlessly integrated into the handlebars.

The most remarkable aspect is the modular top frame, allowing users to switch between solo, bench, or utility cargo configurations in mere seconds.

The standard solo seat is equipped with mounts for two water bottles. The utility configuration includes an integrated rear rack and a single water bottle cage mount, capable of carrying an additional 77 pounds of cargo.

Also provides a third bench option as well. These configurations can all be exchanged rapidly and without the need for tools.

The software adapts to each setup, synchronizing with the central touchscreen to provide a tailored user experience.

Similar to Rivian, software plays a pivotal role in Also’s electric bike and will be continually updated to introduce new functionalities, as Yu explained to TechCrunch.

For example, the software delivers precise navigation and estimated time of arrival (ETA) by closely monitoring the ebike’s motion and speed.

“Given our comprehensive understanding of your ride, including assist level, load, and average speed, we can provide a highly accurate ETA,” Yu stated during the TM-B demonstration. “While seemingly simple, this vehicle is used for transportation, and knowing your arrival time is important.”

The Alpha Wave Helmet

Alongside the e-bike, the company has engineered a helmet internally, known as the Alpha Wave Helmet.

This helmet incorporates innovative technology designed to enhance protection against rotational impacts.

A re-engineered strap system allows for single-handed adjustments, eliminating the need for traditional snapping mechanisms.

Advanced Features

Beyond its core safety function, the Alpha Wave Helmet boasts a suite of integrated technologies.

These include built-in lighting elements and a comprehensive audio system.

The audio system features four speakers, shielded from wind noise, and two microphones employing noise-cancellation technology.

Connectivity is achieved through synchronization with the e-bike’s central touchscreen interface, referred to as the “portal,” or directly with the rider’s smartphone.

This allows for functionalities such as music playback, hands-free phone calls, and real-time turn-by-turn navigation guidance.

• Rotational Impact Protection: Utilizes a new technology for improved safety.
• One-Handed Adjustment: Redesigned strap for easy tightening.
• Integrated Audio: Four wind-shielded speakers and two noise-canceling microphones.
• Connectivity: Syncs with bike’s touchscreen or smartphone.
• Navigation: Provides turn-by-turn directions.