These were the top 5 most-viewed electric bike news stories of the year
Electric bicycles are more popular than ever before, helping drivers become riders and replacing car trips along the way. I’m proud to have helped build Electrek into the No. 1 source for electric bike news, and so now it’s time to take look back at the biggest e-bike news stories of 2022. These stories garnered millions of views from around the world, helping to spread e-bike awareness along the way.
Ukraine is now using these 200-mile-range electric bikes with NLAW rockets to take out Russian tanks
Russia’s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine was sure to be one of the leading stories of 2022. We never thought that would spill over into the e-bike world, but that just means we underestimated Ukrainian ingenuity.
The brave fighters in Ukraine’s defense forces teamed up with Ukrainian electric bike manufacturer Delfast to create battle-ready e-bikes that could out-maneuver the Russians.
Not only were these fast and powerful electric bikes capable of covering rugged terrain in near silent operation, but they were also outfitted with tank-destroying NLAW rockets (Next Generation Light Anti-Armor Weapons). Those rockets are specially designed to allow a single operator to destroy an enemy tank.
The weapons are intended to be human-portable and carried by infantry, but the 28-lb. (12.5 kg) rocket is much easier to haul over long distances when carried on the back of an electric bike.
Such portable anti-tank weapons proved to be a game-changer in Ukraine’s fight to defend its sovereign territory from a Russian takeover, but their use isn’t without significant risk. They expose the operator’s position and make them vulnerable to immediate return fire. But when outfitted with a 50 mph (80 km/h) motor, the soldier can quickly fire the weapon and then exfiltrate, significantly reducing the risk.
E-bikes are normally tools for good, helping riders get exercise, fresh air, and avoid traffic. But when called upon to face evil, they answered that call in Ukraine.
Bolt Mobility abandoned electric bikes all over US cities. Here’s what’s happening to them
Of course not all news is good news, as was the case with Bolt’s abandonment of thousands upon thousands of shared electric bicycles and scooters in cities around the US.
The shared micromobility provider used a model similar to Lime and Bird, where free-floating e-bikes and e-scooters could be rented by the minute using a smartphone application.
The idea is solid, though the economics have proven tougher to crack — especially with so many competitors in the field.
When Bolt Mobility folded operations in most of cities seemingly overnight, these vehicles were left abandoned. We caught up with the original manufacturer that supplied the e-bikes to Bolt Mobility to hear how they were trying to help. Element LEV, the e-bikes’ manufacturer, was seeking out municipalities in each area where Bolt abandoned its equipment.
The manufacturer, which was able to unlock the vehicles, began working with each city individually to find a solution, whether that was through taking the e-bikes public as part of a city-owned program or finding alternative solutions.
Indian Motorcycle and Super73 release a fast e-bike that won’t need a motorcycle license
The iconic motorcycle company Indian teamed up with the equally iconic electric bike manufacturer Super73 back in the spring of 2022 to build an Indian-themed e-bike known as the eFTR Hooligan 1.2.
No motorcycle license necessary, since this new electric two-wheeler was legally classified as an electric bicycle.
The eFTR Hooligan was largely based on Super73’s well-known S2 electric bike. Electrek’s publisher Seth Weintraub and I had the chance to put some serious miles on that bike when we Eurotripped it across Germany last autumn.
We haven’t had a chance to test the Indian version in the eFTR Hooligan 1.2, but that’s high up on our list.
As Indian explained, the bike was modified by adding an inverted front fork, mid-height moto-style handlebars, a unique LED headlight with an FTR-inspired wind deflector, and more aggressive tires.
The eFTR Hooligan 1.2 also ditched the stock front and rear fenders, lowered the battery to the downtube (which likely resulted in improved balance), and added a gold chain to give it that authentic Indian Motorcycle look.
Another US state adds electric bike subsidy, this time with up to $1,700 rebate
That proposed national e-bike tax credit might have faltered before the finish line, but Oregon stepped up to the plate with its own statewide e-bike rebate.
A new bill known as Legislative Concept (LC) 1994 was proposed by outgoing Oregon State Representative Karin Power to help provide rebates to e-bike buyers. It was recently passed off to Representative Dacia Grayber to sponsor the bill in the upcoming session.
We don’t know for sure yet whether the rebate will make it into law. But if it does, it will offer up to $1,200 off most electric bikes and up to $1,700 off cargo electric bikes.
There are a few other small rules for qualification, such as that the bikes have to cost at least $950, but there aren’t any income restrictions or other major hurdles to access.
Oregon could soon join other states such as Vermont and New York that have either implemented or are in the process of creating their own statewide electric bicycle rebate programs.
Chinese electric moped giant NIU’s radical new e-bike is set to shakeup the US, EU markets
NIU is better known for its wildly popular smart electric scooters, which have taken off in Asia and continue to post strong sales in the European and North American markets. But the company’s tech has also been making its way into a wider range of lighter electric vehicles. Earlier this year NIU launched an electric bicycle that turned heads in the e-bike industry.
The NIU BQi used a step-through design, though it did so without falling back on a Dutch bike design or something that looks like a classic “women’s bike.”
The U-shaped frame made the bike easier to mount and easier to handle when the rear rack gets loaded down with heavy cargo or kids.
Another advantage of that unique frame was a unique way to store batteries. Yes, “batteries” as in plural. While the vast majority of all e-bikes use a single removable battery, NIU’s unique frame design made it easy to fit two batteries. And it managed to stuff in dual batteries without looking bulky or disproportioned.
The bike eventually launched at a price of $1,999, putting it in the higher end of the value e-bike category.
What’s in store for next year?
Those were the five biggest e-bike news stories of the year for 2022, but who knows what we’ll see next year.
As the electric bicycle industry continues to grow, we could have a whole host of new designs, new technology, or even new scandals awaiting next year. Here’s hoping for more of the first two!
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Environment
NIO’s EV sales top 20,000 for the sixth straight month as new low-cost SUV shows promise
With its new electric SUV rolling out, NIO’s (NIO) sales topped the 20,000 mark again in Oct, its sixth straight month hitting the milestone.
NIO sold 20,976 vehicles last month, up 30.5% from October 2023. The NIO brand sold 16,657 vehicles, while its new “family-oriented smart vehicle brand,” Onvo, contributed 4,319 in its first full sales month.
After launching its new mid-size Onvo L60 electric SUV in September, NIO said production and deliveries are steadily ramping up.
At the end of October, NIO’s Onvo had 166 Centers and Spaces throughout 60 cities. Onvo plans to continue expanding its network to drive future growth.
NIO’s new electric SUV starts at around $21,200 (149,900) and is a direct rival to Tesla’s Model Y. The base $21K model is if you rent the battery. Even with the battery included, Onvo L60 prices still start at under $30,000 (206,900 yuan), with a CLTC range of up to 341 miles (555 km). That’s still less than the Model Y.
Tesla’s Model Y RWD starts at around $35,000 (249,900 yuan) with 344 mi (554 km) CLTC range in China.
NIO’s new Onvo brand drives higher Oct sales
NIO has often compared its new electric SUV to the Model Y, claiming it’s superior in many ways. The L60 has better consumption at 12.1 kWh/100km compared to the Model Y at 12.5 kWh/100km).
With a longer wheelbase (2,950 mm vs 2,890 mm), NIO’s electric SUV also provides slightly more interior space.
Despite the L60’s success so far, NIO believes its second Onvo model will be an even bigger hit. It could be a potential game-changer.
“If you think the L60 is good, then this new model is a much more competitive product,” NIO’s CEO William Li told CnEVPost after launching the L60. Onvo will launch a new EV every year. Following the L60, Onvo will launch a new mid-to-large-size electric SUV next year.
NIO’s leader claims the new model will be revolutionary. According to Li, it will offer even more surprises than the L60. Deliveries are planned to begin in Q3 2025.
| NIO Onvo L60 vs Tesla Model Y trims | Range (CLTC) |
Starting Price |
| NIO Onvo L60 (Battery rental) | 555 km (341 mi) 730 km (454 mi) |
149,900 yuan ($21,200) |
| NIO Onvo L60 (60 kWh) | 555 km (341 mi) | 206,900 yuan ($29,300) |
| NIO Onvo L60 (85 kWh) | 730 km (454 mi) | 235,900 yuan ($33,400) |
| NIO Onvo L60 (150 kWh) | +1,000 km (+621 mi) | TBD |
| Tesla Model Y RWD | 554 km (344 mi) | 249,900 yuan ($34,600) |
| Tesla Model Y AWD Long Range | 688 km (427 mi) | 290,900 yuan ($40,300) |
| Tesla Model Y AWD Performance | 615 km (382 mi) | 354,900 yuan ($49,100) |
Local reports suggest a six-or seven-seat electric SUV could hit the market even sooner. With rumors of a launch around Q1 2025, deliveries could happen as soon as May 2025.
According to sources close to the matter, the L60 is just a “stepping stone” with even more exciting EVs on the way. The source claimed the new six-seat option will start at around $42,100 (300,000 yuan).
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Velotric Ebikes are designed by some of the most brilliant minds in the business. And now, you have the opportunity to own one (or two!) of these high-performance, elegant, reliable rides. You won’t want to miss these fantastic early-bird Black Friday deals running from November 1-14, and, also get a sneak peek at special offers that start on November 8.
Read on to find the right model for you and learn how you can donate $5 to get up to $550 off a superb Velotric electric bike.
Velotric Black Friday deals – give to get back
If you donate $5 to either the Clean Air Task Force or the Solutions Project at checkout, you’ll unlock some fantastic discounts off Velotric e-bikes:
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Plus, Velotric is giving Electrek readers an exclusive discount: Enter the code Electrek20 at checkout to get an additional $20 OFF!
Velotric Discover 2 Ebike
The Velotric Discover 2, Velotric’s most comfortable e-bike, now has even more power, with a 750W high-performance motor and 75 Nm of torque. The 48V 706 Wh battery, providing up to 75 miles per charge, maximizes your range.
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Velotric Summit 1 Ebike
If you want both an everyday bike and a trekking bike, then this is the one for you. The customizable Velotric Summit 1 Ebike is a hybrid e-bike featuring a 750W motor with 90 Nm of torque that delivers exceptional power for both city streets and offroad terrain, and the intuitive throttle means you can access that power effortlessly. When you’re off-road, the 120mm travel suspension absorbs the impacts, resulting in a smoother ride. The 48V, 705.6Wh battery provides up to 70 miles of charge.
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Velotric Nomad 1 Plus Ebike
The Nomad 1 Plus Ebike‘s 750W motor and 75 Nm torque allow you to conquer just about any terrain. The 691Wh battery keeps you on the move for up to 55 miles, an 80mm suspension fork smooths your ride, and powerful waterproof hydraulic brakes give you full control.
The Nomad 1 Plus features an adjustable stem, a brighter front light, and max speed adjustable range is 12-28 mph.
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Velotric Fold 1 Ebike
The Velotric Fold 1 Ebike becomes compact in just three quick moves, but don’t mistake it for simple. The high-performance 750W motor and generates 70 Nm torque, beating most of the competition for acceleration and climbing ability. The 608Wh battery will give you up to 55 miles of range, its step-through design is 20% lower than the competition, and when you’re done zipping around town or commuting, you can pop it into a car trunk or even a closet.
Plus, the Fold 1 is compatible with a wide range of cool accessories so you can customize it to meet your needs.
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Velotric T1 ST Plus Ebike
The Velotric T1 ST Plus Ebike is an ultra-compact, 39-pound city-and-gravel bike that’s designed for riders with an active lifestyle. But don’t be fooled by its sleek look because it’s very well-equipped: The five pedal-assist-level T1 ST has a 70-mile range and three riding modes, and the peak 600W motor generates 40Nm of torque. It also comes with Apple Find My integration.
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Velotric Discover 1 Plus Ebike
The Velotric Discover 1 Plus Ebike is a fantastic commuter bike that’s designed for comfort. (Plus, it’s kinda fun that it comes in five color choices.) If your commuting route is a bit more challenging, then the Discover 1 Plus might be the right fit for you. It features a rear light with braking high-beam, a 60 Lux front light, and double hydraulic disc brakes for extra safety. Plus, Velotric rigorously tests its frames 150,000 times under tough conditions for quality assurance.
This commuter e-bike that rides like a cruiser has a pedal assist range of 65 miles and throttle range of 58 miles on a 900W peak motor that generates 65 Nm of torque.
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Velotric Go 1 Ebike
Velotric’s Go 1 Ebike is small but mighty – it can carry up to 440 pounds comfortably. This ride has hydraulic suspension and a plush saddle, and it can be kitted out with a wide range of accessories, making it a versatile form of transport for everything from a fun day out to carting groceries across town.
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Velotric Packer 1 Ebike
From kids to cargo, the Velotric Packer 1 Ebike was designed to haul it all! The Packer 1 features Velotric’s proprietary Velopower H75 Drive System, which provides a range of up to 52 miles on pedal assist up to 25 mph (unlocked) with a 750W motor.
It can carry up to 440 pounds and has a 176-pound rear cargo carry capacity, plus hydraulic suspension with 80 mm of travel for a smooth ride. If you’re running a child to school every day, this would be a fantastic choice. Be sure to check out all the great accessories.
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Don’t forget to use Velotric’s exclusive code for Electrek readers of Electrek20 at checkout to get an additional $20 OFF!
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Dominion Energy has hit a major milestone in the construction of its Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind (CVOW) project. The company has put in place 78 monopile foundations and four offshore substation foundations during the first installation season, surpassing its initial target of 70 monopiles.
The 2.6-gigawatt (GW) project is located 27 miles off the coast of Virginia Beach and is the US’s largest offshore wind farm under construction.
When complete, CVOW will feature 176 turbines generating enough clean energy to power up to 660,000 homes. Dominion Energy expects the project to save customers $3 billion in fuel costs over the first decade of operation. Construction is on track and on budget, with a projected completion date in late 2026. The project is currently 43% finished.
For the next few months, Dominion will focus on installing the first offshore substation, laying export cables, continuing onshore transmission work, and placing transition pieces on top of monopiles to prepare for turbine installation in 2025.
The monopiles, which are single vertical steel cylinders that support the wind turbines, are being staged at Portsmouth Marine Terminal. They were manufactured by Rostock, Germany-based EEW SPC, and will support turbines supplied by Siemens Gamesa. Installation of the remaining monopiles will resume in May 2025 as planned.
The planned pause is to safeguard the endangered North Atlantic right whale during its migration period through the project area.
CVOW is also boosting Virginia’s economy. Nearly 1,000 workers from the state, including more than 800 in the Hampton Roads area, have been involved in the project so far. Once operational, the CVOW wind farm is expected to create over 1,000 local jobs for ongoing maintenance and operations.
Read more: The US’s largest offshore wind farm just got its first monopile
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