It seems like there’s an electric version of just about every type of bicycle out there. There are eMTBs, e-cruisers, e-folders, and even e-road bikes. But somehow, BMX bikes missed the electric memo. Or at least they had until SWFT came along with an old-school classic sporting a new-school take. And at just $999, the SWFT BMX won’t break the bank.
We’ve occasionally seen some e-bikes get close, but none have carried quite the same skatepark nostalgia as this one.
The bike seems to check most of the classic BMX boxes. It’s all there with a short frame, tall bars, 20-inch wheels, rigid fork, front and rear pegs, single-speed drivetrain and flat black paint job.
Of course, there’s more than just meets the eye, and that includes a complete Class 2 electric bicycle drivetrain hidden in the SWFT BMX.
The rear hub houses a 350W motor that can be controlled using either the handlebar-mounted half-twist throttle or pedal assist.
A cadence sensor at the wheels helps measure pedaling speed if you want to get your pedaling on, or the throttle makes it easy to sit back and relax while the bike speeds off at up to 20 mph (32 km/h).
There’s a lithium-ion battery built right into the frame’s downtube that is said to offer a maximum range of 35 miles (56 km). But considering it’s just a 36V 7.5Ah battery with a mere 270 Wh of capacity, that 35-mile range estimate is starting to sound a bit lofty. If you plan to throttle around at a higher speed often, there’s a decent chance you’ll cut that range in half or more.
Still, the small battery and lower power motor help keep the weight down to just 39.7 pounds (18 kg). I say “just” because that’s quite lightweight compared to most electric bicycles. And remember that the SWFT BMX comes with heavy components, like a steel fork, steel handlebars, four foot pegs, and thick 14mm axles. So that sub-40-pound weight is fairly admirable, all things considered.
Considering that you’ll have to bring the entire e-bike inside to charge due to the lack of a removable battery, it’s a good thing it’s fairly lightweight.
In addition to the usual suspects, there are a few extra parts you won’t find on most old school BMX bikes, like the rear disc brake, front LED headlight, or even the kickstand.
But then again, while this may look like a classic BMX bike, it’s not really meant for going totally wild. Before you snag that saddle between your knees and go for a double barspin, know that the company isn’t suggesting you really push it too far with the stunts:
Because of throttle and display wires, the handlebar cannot spin 360 degrees. This e-bike is in the BMX style, but not designed for professional tricks or stunts.
The SWFT BMX likely won’t be heading for the X-Games any time soon, but the launch video still shows it getting some pretty decent air (for an e-bike) in a skate park.
Considering that the bike is likely designed for those who grew up on BMX bikes and just want a similarly-styled, lightweight, and maneuverable ride with the benefit of electric assist, that’s probably good enough.
Yes! This thing looks awesome! Sure, it’s low power and low battery capacity, but that’s not really the point of a bike like this. If you’re looking for a BMX-style bike, then you obviously aren’t afraid of spinning a pedal or two. So the modest assistance is going to feel like a major upgrade to the BMX from your younger days.
And when it comes to just having something simple that you can ride to the park and back before tossing in the corner of your garage or back of your truck, this is hard to beat. With few parts to wear out (no suspension, no shifter, only one brake), there’s just less to fuss with or worry about.
This certainly will be a niche product for a certain type of rider, but it’s cool to see that it exists (and that it doesn’t cost an arm and a leg).
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Tesla and Rivian have been embroiled in a lawsuit in which the former accused the latter of having stolen battery technology by poaching Tesla employees.
It sounds like the two automakers are finally about to settle the lawsuit, which has been going on for 4 years.
When Tesla filed the lawsuit, it wasn’t clear what trade secrets Tesla was claiming Rivian had stolen. However, we noted that the employees listed in the lawsuits were two recruiters, an EHS manager, and a manager of Tesla’s charging networks.
The automaker claimed that these employees brought “documents consisting of highly sensitive trade secret, confidential, and proprietary engineering information” when they went to work for Rivian.
Over a year later, we now learn that Tesla had notified the court that it expects to file to get the lawsuit dismissed after reaching a conditional agreement with Rivian. The company didn’t disclose the details of the settlement (via Bloomberg):
Tesla didn’t disclose specifics about the agreement in a court filing, but told a California state judge that it expects to seek dismissal of the case by Dec. 24 upon satisfactory completion of the terms.
Neither Tesla nor Rivian have commented on the reported settlement.
While Tesla has claimed that it somewhat open-sourced its patents, we have previously noted that it’s not exactly the case. Tesla claims to let other companies use its patented technology as long as they themselves don’t sue them over patent rights.
And in this specific case, Tesla alleges that Rivian has specifically hired employees to steal technologies. Again, Rivian has denied the allegation.
Electrek’s Take
The terms are unknown, but in similar cases, it often involves things like some level of access to make sure that no proprietary technology is being used or has been used.
The lawsuit is not exactly clear, but based on the timeline and the allegations of “next-gen batteries”, Tesla could have been talking about its 4680 battery cells, although those are cells. It could also be the structural battery pack.
French infrastructure specialists Proviridis have partnered with EVSE manufacturer Kempower to deliver a novel, underground charging solution for electric semi trucks designed to easily integrate into existing truck depots.
By installing its high-powered charging cabinets underground and integrating the charging cables into a solid metal pipe, Kempower and Proviridis have been able to make room for high-powered charging points in an existing truck depot that didn’t have enough space to install either conventional EVSE or overhead “drop lines.”
For the pilot, the metal pipe is painted in a striking yellow color to make it easier to see while maneuvering the lot, and keeping the dispensers themselves more protected than conventional concrete bollards. The 600 kW power cabinet is positioned a few yards away – a typical space-saving Kempower solution – and connected to the charge points by underground cable.
Proviridis believes their solution provides enough of a competitive advantage that fleet buyers looking to electrify will be eager to give it a try.
“The product is durable across a wide spectrum of temperatures and conditions, requires minimal ventilation, and can cater for a wide range of customer needs,” explains Olivier Verdu, Technical Director at Proviridis. “These are features which perfectly place the Kempower solution for this type of charging configuration in a logistics environment.”
In honor of Black Friday and Cyber Monday, eBike specialist Buzz Bicycles is offering an exclusive discount for Electrek readers on its Centris Class 2 Folding Bike.
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Buzz Bicycles is back with an exclusive new deal
Buzz Bicycles has been a mainstay on Electrek for a few years now, as we have covered several of its electric bikes, which suit riders of all skill levels and help them “Buzz through life.” Buzz is an omnichannel eBike brand that prioritizes direct-to-consumerism and has found success in its mission to deliver ultimate transportation solutions at an excellent value for its growing base of eBike enthusiasts.
The company strives to deliver riders a “Wow moment,” which is usually brought on as they feel the pedal assist function kick in. This feature delivers all you need to conquer hills and longer rides while enjoying new adventures with friends.
The Buzz team has utilized decades of industry experience into its portfolio of eBikes, all conceived and designed in Dayton, Ohio. The company, which operates under the United Wheels umbrella alongside brands like Huffy Bicycles, Niner Bikes, and Batch Bicycles, has adopted an ethos that the freedom of riding should be fun and accessible for everyone, no matter what adventure lies ahead.
By leveraging the global presence of its parent company, Buzz Bicycles can make good on its promise to deliver affordable eBikes that are comfortable, powerful, and safe, much like the Centris Folding eBike, which is as versatile and compact as it is fun. The exclusive deal Buzz Bicycles is offering on the Centris makes it even more fun. You can take advantage of it below.
But first, you’ll want to learn about the capabilities of this foldable eBike to truly understand its value, as well as what accessories are available to level up your purchase.
The Buzz Centris is an easy to ride foldable eBike for all
The Buzz Centris is a Class 2 Folding eBike built for comfort and convenience no matter where you take it. At full size, the Centris’ step-through frame offers a low step-over height of just 16 inches, perfect for riders of all sizes, enabling easy transitions from ground to saddle for its riders.
When you’re not riding, the Centris from Buzz Bicycles folds neatly to 34 inches in length and 22 inches in height, making it easy to store at home or to carry in a vehicle on the way to your next ride. Furthermore, the assembled bike only weighs 68 pounds, making it easy to transport.
You can easily navigate tougher terrain on the Centris thanks to the eBike’s 20″ x 4″ knobby tires and front suspension. The bike is powered by a 48V, 500-watt-hour (Wh) battery pack that can propel it to a top speed of 20 mph for an all-electric range of up to 40 miles on a single charge.
Additionally, this folding model from Buzz Bicycles comes equipped with both a front and rear rack, offering versatile cargo-carrying options so you can customize your ride with a variety of Buzz accessories.
Like all Buzz eBikes, the Centris is tested and deemed compliant with the UL2849 standard. This standard covers the entire electric bicycle system, including the motor, battery, controller, and charger, offering the highest safety standards for added peace of mind.
The Centris Class 2 folding bike from Buzz is available in two colors: Gloss White or Matte Black. This $1,199 eBike is currently reduced to $899 – and you can score an additional $200 off with this exclusive promo, but only for a limited time.
With the purchase of any Buzz eBike, including the Centris, you are guaranteed the following:
10-year limited warranty (lightweight aluminum frame protected for full 10 years)
2-year limited warranty (electrical components covered by 2-year warranty for peace of mind)
6-month limited warranty (additional bike components protected by a 6-month warranty)
Are you interested in the Centris from Buzz Bicycles? You’ve come to the right place. Starting today, while supplies last, you can take advantage of an additional $200 off the sale price by using promo code “ELECTREK200.“ That’s a $500 discount in total!
We highly recommend perusing Buzz’s entire lineup of products. They are designed for commuters and casual riders, with technology and features that help you quickly feel comfortable riding. If you are new to the world of E-transportation, Buzz Bicycles is the brand for you.
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