CES 2022: Smarter E-bikes and Scooters Emerge

eMobility Innovations at CES 2022

Despite our absence from CES 2022 in person, reports from the “eMobility Experience” were plentiful. This dedicated test track showcased a wide array of e-scooters, e-bikes, and other micromobility vehicles exhibited in Las Vegas.

Featured Products and Trends

Many products on display weren't entirely novel, including Bird’s consumer vehicle lineup – the Bird Bike, Bird Flex, and Birdie. Zoomo’s electric-assist utility bikes, Euphree’s City Robin step-through e-bike, and the 3D-printed carbon fiber e-bikes from Arevo and Superstrata were also present.

However, several companies did unveil updated versions of their electric scooters, bikes, motorcycles, and associated connected technologies.

The Rise of Smart, Connected Vehicles

A central theme emerging from CES 2022 was the integration of smart, connected features into these vehicles. These smaller electric vehicles are now equipped with more sophisticated onboard computers.

These computers synchronize with mobile applications, offering riders functionalities such as vehicle location, fitness tracking, and control over features like locks and lights.

A Summary of New Technologies

Below is a compilation of the new bikes, scooters, and connected tech that were highlighted at CES 2022.

• Smart Vehicle Integration: Onboard computers are becoming increasingly powerful.
• App Connectivity: Riders can now manage and monitor their vehicles through dedicated apps.
• Enhanced Functionality: Features like remote locking and lighting control are becoming standard.

Segway

Segway, a leading manufacturer in the electric micromobility sector, showcased new products at CES. The company is known for both direct sales of personal transportation and providing vehicles to shared mobility services globally.

At the event, Segway introduced the P-Series of kick scooters and the E11a, a new e-scooter designed with a moped-style form factor.

P-Series Scooters

The P60 and P100S models feature enhanced designs for rider comfort and stability. These improvements include expanded footboards and handlebars.

Both scooters are equipped with all-season tires of automobile grade and a comprehensive spring suspension system for both the front and rear wheels.

Safety features are also prominent, with integrated turn signals and a rear tail light. Multiple locking and unlocking mechanisms are also incorporated.

E11a E-Scooter

The E110a is designed to accommodate two riders and offers substantial storage capacity.

Segway highlights the inclusion of numerous smart features within the E110a. Specific details regarding these features were not fully disclosed by the company.

However, based on previous generations, it is anticipated that the E110a will include a sophisticated battery management system.

Connectivity with smartphones via the Segway-Ninebot app is also expected, mirroring functionality found in earlier Segway models.

Cake

Image Credits: Cake

CAKE, a Swedish manufacturer specializing in electric motorbikes with a lightweight design, has introduced its “CAKE :work series” to the American market for the initial time.

While this range of professional-grade motorbikes has been previously exhibited, this marks its debut appearance within the United States.

A significant announcement from Cake during CES centered on enhancements to its Ridecake connectivity application.

These updates incorporate functionalities designed to facilitate the monitoring and administration of vehicles by professional fleet managers.

New Connectivity Features

The newly implemented connectivity features are accessible to all riders equipped with a Cake Connect module that supports data services.

This encompasses both current and forthcoming models, alongside a substantial portion of existing Cake motorcycles.

The application update introduces personalized ride modes, instantaneous riding data, a comprehensive ride history log, and enhanced anti-theft security measures.

Professional Fleet Management

Users of Cake’s cloud-based management platform will benefit from real-time data streams.

This includes live tracking of fleet locations, displaying the position of each motorbike, alongside mileage, remaining range, and battery status information.

Access to diagnostic data will also be provided.

Furthermore, the system enables over-the-air firmware updates, access to anti-theft capabilities, and the configuration of bespoke ride modes.

These features are intended to streamline operations and improve the efficiency of professional users.

Delfast

Delfast, a startup originating from both America and Ukraine, has unveiled enhancements to its electric Top 3.0 bicycle.

The company asserts that the updated model is capable of traveling up to 200 miles on a full charge.

Key Features and Capabilities

This intelligent bicycle incorporates an integrated computer system.

This system facilitates over-the-air software updates and provides a security feature to disable the bike, preventing theft.

Synchronization with Delfast’s newly developed mobile application unlocks a suite of functionalities.

Mobile App Integration

• Real-time analytics are provided on demand.
• Remote locking and unlocking of the bicycle is possible.
• The bike’s alarm system can be armed or disarmed remotely.
• Comprehensive metrics, including total mileage, odometer readings, and speedometer data, are tracked.
• Power consumption is monitored, and remaining range is estimated.
• The bicycle’s location can be pinpointed.
• Lighting and other smart features are controllable through the app.

These features collectively enhance the user experience and security of the Delfast Top 3.0.

Niu

Image Credits: Screenshot/Niu

The e-scooter manufacturer Niu, originating from China, unveiled its latest innovation at this year’s event: the BQi-C1 e-bike.

Previously previewed, detailed pricing and technical specifications for this vehicle were finally revealed during CES.

BQi-C1 Specifications and Features

This step-through e-bike utilizes a 500W continuous, 750W peak Bafang hub motor situated in the rear wheel.

In the United States, the BQi-C1 is capable of attaining maximum speeds of 28 miles per hour.

However, due to more stringent e-bike regulations within Europe, models sold there will be limited to a 250W motor and a top speed of 15.5 miles per hour.

The U.S. variant incorporates both a throttle and pedal assist functionality, whereas the European model will feature pedal assist exclusively.

Connectivity is also a key feature, as the BQi will integrate with a dedicated mobile application and offer a range of smart security capabilities.

Pricing and Availability

The BQi-C1 will be offered at a price point of $1,499 in the U.S.

This pricing is considered competitive, especially given the e-bike’s substantial power and feature set.

It represents a compelling value proposition within the current e-bike market.

Okai

Okai, a Chinese vehicle supplier for numerous prominent shared mobility companies, showcased five new products at CES. However, only three of these were available for test rides.

Let's begin with the EB20 electric bicycle. Constructed with high-quality mountain bike parts and a lightweight carbon fiber frame, this is a 12-speed model.

It’s equipped with a 750W motor, interchangeable Samsung batteries, and a substantial 2.8-inch LED touchscreen for enhanced user interaction.

Alongside the EB20, Okai introduced the ES600 electric scooter, specifically designed to meet the demands of the expanding scooter-sharing sector.

This scooter incorporates a swappable battery system featuring integrated handles for ease of use, along with optimized weight distribution and a low center of gravity.

A hydraulic suspension system further enhances ride comfort and stability. Safety is also prioritized with side and front light indicators, LED headlights and taillights, and side reflectors.

The ES800 represents Okai’s entry into the high-performance off-road scooter market. It boasts a powerful 1800W motor and robust 12-inch off-road tires.

Capable of tackling inclines up to 35%, the ES800 also features dual shock absorbers. Its construction is 30% heavier than standard e-scooters, providing increased stability.

Shifting focus to non-rideable products, Okai presented the SH10 smart helmet. This helmet is manufactured using antibacterial materials to promote a safer and more hygienic commuting experience.

It is likely targeted towards shared mobility services, where helmet provision is increasingly mandated by urban authorities.

The SH10 integrates Bluetooth connectivity, allowing riders to connect to the Okai app. Through the app, users can personalize and configure front and rear LED displays for improved visibility.

A built-in smart speaker enables riders to enjoy music while maintaining situational awareness on the road.

Finally, Okai unveiled the SP10 Smart Backpack at CES. This backpack features an ultraviolet light disinfection chamber for sanitization.

Security is enhanced through a fingerprint sensor for controlled access, and integrated device charging is also included.

A customizable RGB strip allows for synchronization with the vehicle’s operational status, providing visual feedback.

Bosch

Bosch presented its connected smart e-bike system at the event. While not a recent introduction, the system received recognition as a CES Innovation Awards honoree.

This system is comprised of several key components. These include the eBike Flow app, functioning as a digital key, alongside a control unit, display, rechargeable battery, and drive unit.

Similar to other connected devices showcased at CES, this e-bike system benefits from over-the-air update capabilities.

It also facilitates the recording of individual ride data and fitness metrics for the user.

Riders can personalize their experience through customizable riding modes.

The system’s display provides crucial information, such as current battery charge and upcoming service appointments, directly on the home screen.

Moonbikes

Image Credits: Moonbikes

Moonbikes presented an intriguing addition to the electric vehicle landscape at CES. While not a newly developed product, the event marked the initial opportunity for widespread public interaction with their electric snow vehicle.

This single-track snowmobile is powered by a 3 kW (4hp) electric motor, enabling it to achieve a maximum speed of 26 miles per hour.

Weighing in at just 182 pounds, it offers a significantly lighter profile compared to conventional snowmobiles. This reduced weight is anticipated to enhance maneuverability and overall handling.

Key Features and Performance

The vehicle’s design incorporates a snow track at the rear and a single ski for steering in the front.

Battery range is estimated at approximately 12 miles when operated in sport mode, extending to 22 miles in eco mode.

A complete battery recharge requires around five hours.

The innovative design of Moonbikes aims to provide a more accessible and environmentally friendly snowmobiling experience.