Rad Power Bikes, one of the most well-known electric bike brands in the US, has just announced the launch of three new RadRunner models. The updates bring new hardware and software to the popular line of compact utility e-bikes and introduce a brand new RadRunner trim known as the RadRunner Max.
Since its launch in 2019, the RadRunner has defined a new category short tail cargo e-bikes, often referred to as utility e-bikes. Combining aspects of agile mopeds, compact folding bikes, and heavy duty cargo e-bikes, the RadRunner line has become a do-anything style of bike designed for folks tackling many jobs with a single e-bike.
Today’s unveiling of the new RadRunner, RadRunner Plus, and RadRunner Max marks the latest evolution in that lineup.
The new RadRunner Plus offers upgraded features and hardware
The three models share a similar frame and much of the same hardware, offering Rad’s SafeShield UL-listed batteries with thermal-resistant technology, hydraulic brakes, higher payloads, all-terrain tires in standard sizes for ease of replacement, IPX6 water-resistance, and new passcode protection for anti-theft.
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But despite their similarities, the three models carry unique features and loadouts.
The new RadRunner is a Class 2 e-bike, meaning speeds limited to 20 mph (32 km/h) and a motor power limit of 750W. It has an upgrade 320 lb total payload, a 65 Nm torque rating, and a range of 55 miles (88 km).
While it has the option to mount a number of interesting accessories, the new RadRunner Plus comes standard with many of those add-ons. The RadRunner Plus maintains the Class 2 performance but includes passenger carrying gear like foot pegs, a rear bench seat, and protective wheel skirt. A higher torque 70 Nm motor offers more strength for multiple riders and the inclusion of a suspension fork helps smooth out the ride.
The RadRunner Plus is also compatible with a new RangeExtender accessory offered by Rad, which adds more battery capacity to the bike and enables longer rides or fewer recharges each week for regular riders.
The new RadRunner Max is now the company’s top-of-the-line RadRunner and ups the ante with Class 3 performance. The bike’s top speed of 28 mph (45 km/h) provides faster riding, though the speed limit can of course be adjusted by the owner if higher speeds aren’t desired. The RadRunner Max’s torque sensor provides a smoother and more natural feeling pedal assist experience, and the company says that it has been tuned to “replicate the smooth, responsive feel of accelerating in a car, minus the emissions.”
The RadRunner Max also includes Apple FindMy location tracking built into the e-bike and a digital key that lets riders unlock the bike simply by approaching it with their phone in their pocket. A new radar feature even alerts riders to approaching vehicles with a warning directly on the bike’s display.
Rad launched new features like Apple FindMy integration on the RadRunner Max and passcodes on all models
“Since joining Rad, I’ve been energized by the opportunity to build on the company’s strong foundation and connect even more people to the power of e-bikes,” said Kathi Lentzsch, who came on board as the new CEO of Rad Power Bikes last month. “The new RadRunner lineup is all about giving riders more versatility, more comfort, and more confidence. Just like these new models offer options to match different riding needs, we’re continuing to provide riders with flexible ways to find the right ebike for them, whether that’s online, in one of our RadRetail stores, or through our growing network of retail partners across the country.”
Priced at US $1,499 and $1,799, the RadRunner and RadRunner Plus provide a more budget-minded entry point into Rad’s most popular utility-style e-bike. Carrying a heftier US $2,299 pricetag, the RadRunner Max’s flagship price speaks to its upgraded hardware and software features that provide riders with even more features, though at a price.
All three new models are available to order today, though the RadRunner Max requires a pre-order ahead of shipping early next month.
Oh, and for those who would like a steal on Rad’s previous version, the RadRunner 2, the company is now selling them on super discount at just $999.
Rad Power Bikes RadRunner marks the entry-level model in the RadRunner lineup
Electrek’s Take
It’s no secret that Rad has taken its fair share of knocks over the last few years, but that apparently hasn’t stopped the company from continuing to develop and roll out new models of e-bikes each year. The RadRunner is likely my favorite platform from Rad, so to see it get the attention it deserves with a wide range of new options is great news.
The Max’s 28 mph Class 3 speed option is music to my ears. The RadRunner has always offered a combination of a moped-style frame and delightfully rounded moped-style tires just begging for faster speeds, so I’m glad to see Rad finally give everyone what they really wanted.
The pricing might have seemed a bit high a few months ago, but now that e-bike companies are staring down the still-smoking barrel of a tariff gun wielded by someone with an itchy trigger finger, the prices suddenly don’t seem as high as they could have been. There’s a lot of uncertainty left in the e-bike market, regardless of where e-bikes are produced, and so I don’t envy anyone trying to strategize pricing at a time like this.
Financials aside, the bikes look great and the features add a lot of value on top of an already highly utilitarian platform. Now I’m excited to ride one – and you better believe it’s the RadRunner Max that I have my eye on.
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Tested: Anker SOLIX C1000 Gen 2 portable power station brings ample support in a smaller and lighter unit
Anker is hands-down one of the most well-known tech accessory brands with an extensive lineup of consumer electronics, and its SOLIX sub-brand has making waves in the portable backup power solution space. Its C1000 power station made big waves when it first hit the market in 2023, quickly becoming a popular charging solution for camping and other outdoor activities, in particular. Now, two years later, the Anker has introduced its SOLIX C1000 Gen 2 Portable Power Station, which I was lucky enough to snag and test out, and which I believe will outshine its predecessor in the long run. Head below to get my hands-on impressions of this all-new solar generator.
To get our full hands-on impression of this new portable backup power solution, be sure to check out our review here.
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Letric ONE belt-drive e-bike hits $1,899 low during Better-Than-Prime Sale with up to $694 in FREE gear on models from $999
Lectric has launched its Better-Than-Prime Sale with increased savings on its e-bikes reaching up to $720 in total. One notable return is the price cut on the brand’s Premium ONE Long-Range Belt-Drive Commuter e-bike to $1,899 shipped, while it also gets $220 in FREE add-on gear too. This is the biggest deal of the bunch as we’re seeing a $500 price cut from it’s usual $2,399 rate for the second time since the brand’s Labor Day sale, with the additional $220 savings you’re getting from the free included bundle, which contains a rear cargo rack and fenders to go over both wheels. All-in-all, you’re getting a second chance at the best deal to date, with $720 in savings at its all-time lowest tracked price.
Riders looking for the most premium model under Lectric’s flag will certainly enjoy the ONE Long-Range e-bike, which is a higher-end (and much higher-priced) solution that brings a plethora of top features to your commute. This model boasts a Sutto 750W rear hub motor (1,310W peak) alongside a Gates CDC 113-tooth Carbon Drive Belt System, delivering top speeds of 20 to 28 MPH, depending on your state-specific laws. The whole thing is powered by the 14Ah battery that provides up to 60 miles of pedal-assisted travel (bolstered by the brand’s PWR programming) on one full charge. There is also the throttle for pure electric riding, which does decrease its overall mileage.
Joining the motor and belt-drive, another set of premium features you’ll find here is the Pinion auto-shifting gearbox and a 24A potted motor controller that allows more effortless surges to its peak output. There are also the hydraulic mineral oil disc brakes, 20-inch puncture-resistant city tires, an integrated headlight, a brake-activated taillight, hidden cable routing, a color LCD screen, and more.
Lectric Prime Day ONE e-bike offer with $500 cut & $220 bundle
Lectric Prime Day XPedition 2.0 offers with up to $674 bundles:
XPedition 2.0 standard cargo e-bike with $346 bundle, Stratus White: $1,399 (Reg. $1,745)
XPedition 2.0 standard cargo e-bike with $346 bundle, Raindrop Blue: $1,399 (Reg. $1,745)
XPedition 2.0 DB cargo e-bike with $545 bundle, Stratus White: $1,799 (Reg. $2,244)
XPedition 2.0 DB cargo e-bike with $545 bundle, Raindrop Blue: $1,799 (Reg. $2,244)
XPedition 2.0 DB cargo e-bike with $694 bundle, Stratus White: $1,999 (Reg. $2,693)
XPedition 2.0 DB cargo e-bike with $694 bundle, Raindrop Blue: $1,999 (Reg. $2,693)
Lectric Prime Day Trike2 offers with up to $455 bundles:
Power camps, jobsites, tailgates, and more with $870 in exclusive savings on Jackery’s Explorer 2000 v2 station at new $629 low
We’ve secured exclusive savings from Wellbots on the Jackery Explorer 2000 v2 Portable Power Station for $629.10 shipped, after using the exclusive code 9TO5PD10 at checkout for an additional 10% off. It may carry a $1,499 MSRP, but we usually see it keeping down lower between $1,099 and $899, with falls going as low as $799 since first hitting the market back in February. This deal is already starting lower than ever at $699, with the exclusive code for our readers taking the savings even further, as a total $870 is cut from the MSRP for the best and lowest price we have tracked.
Get a charge anywhere with Schumacher’s latest 12A level 1 portable EV charger at $128 (Reg. $160)
As part of its early Prime Big Deals Day event, Amazon is now offering the Schumacher SEV1670 12A Level 1 Portable EV Charger for $127.99 shipped, after clipping the on-page coupon. Since its release in May, carrying a $160 full price, we saw this rate first appear during July’s Prime Day, with it only beaten out by one-time falls to $115 and the $112 low a month ago. You can pick it up here today with $32 cut from the tag for the third-lowest price we have tracked.
Review: Ride1Up’s Revv1 DRT e-bike is a rugged off-roader with plenty of suspension and hidden punch
When it comes to e-bikes, most people’s immediate thought is a commuter model designed to get you through streets to your various destinations, but with Ride1Up’s Revv1 DRT e-bike, the fun is extended (and primarily focused) to off-road adventures, and boy, does this baby have some go in it. It’s been over two years since we reviewed the Revv1 FS counterpart, which we came away quite impressed with its SUPER73-like design. Now we’re heading off the beaten path with this newer off-road variant, which boasts improved specs that outshine its predecessors in the series.
The savings this week are also continuing to a collection of other markdowns. To the same tune as the offers above, these all help you take a more energy-conscious approach to your routine. Winter means you can lock in even better off-season price cuts on electric tools for the lawn while saving on EVs and tons of other gear.
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It’s almost here. Kia is about to introduce its smallest, most affordable electric vehicle yet. Although the EV2 is tiny, Kia promises it will look and feel much larger both inside and out.
Kia will unveil the EV2, its smallest EV, in early 2026
We knew it was coming sometime in 2026, but now we have a better idea of when we can expect to see it for the first time.
Kia’s President and CEO Song Ho-Sung told Auto Express that the company is preparing to unveil the EV2 in early 2026. Although he didn’t reveal a specific date, Song offered a few new details we can expect to see when it arrives in production form.
The EV2 Concept was showcased during Kia’s EV Day earlier this year, a preview of the upcoming entry-level EV.
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Like Kia’s previous concepts, such as the EV3 and EV4, you can expect the EV2 to look pretty close to the one shown earlier this year.
“It is still a concept car, but a lot of it you will see,” Karim Habib, Kia’s design boss, told Auto Express, adding, “You can take the example of the EV3 or EV4, which we showed two years ago as concepts.” The EV2 will be no different. According to Habib, “the delta between production car and show car is exactly the same.”
Kia Concept EV2 (Source: Kia)
It will debut with Kia’s new “Opposites United” design, showcased on its latest electric vehicles like the EV3, EV4, and EV5.
The new design features Kia’s signature Star Map daytime running lights (DRLs), smooth lines, and revamped front and back ends.
Like the EV9 and EV5, the EV2 has a more upright SUV-like stance, which will be carried over to the production model as recent spy shots have confirmed.
Kia Concept EV2 (Source: Kia)
Although it’s Kia’s smallest EV to date, Song said the “interior roominess” will surprise buyers. The concept features a unique folding rear bench that Habib hinted could make its way into the production car.
The minimalist layout will remain essentially unchanged, but the rear-hinged doors won’t be offered. Well, at least, at first.
Kia Concept EV2 interior (Source: Kia)
Habib said that is something Hyundai Motor Group is still “working towards,” confirming plans to apply it to future vehicles.
Kia said the EV2 will start at around 30,000 euros ($35,000) when it goes on sale in 2026, or slightly less than the EV3. We could see the production model as soon as the Brussels Motor Show in January.
The EV2 will be built at Kia’s manufacturing plant in Slovakia, specifically for the European market. After the EV2, Kia plans to launch an even smaller, more affordable EV1 as the new base model for its electric car lineup (EV1 to EV9).
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After an announcement last week, eVTOL developer Archer Aviation completed display flights to the public at the 2025 California International Air Show. This public display was Archer’s latest aerial achievement in the public eye as it moves closer to certification and commercial eVTOL operations.
While Archer Aviation ($ACHR) has been a mainstay on Electrek‘s eVTOL news beat for the past few years, the past few months have been fascinating. In May, Archer signed on as the exclusive air taxi provider of the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
By June, it became the latest sustainable aviation developer to begin bona fide piloted test flights in its flagship Midnight aircraft (pictured below). Archer’s success continued through the summer, as it reported milestones that marked its longest piloted eVTOL flight (55 miles in 31 minutes), as well as its two highest altitude flights, reaching heights of 7,000 and 10,000 feet.
Last week, Archer announced that it would be demonstrating the capabilities of its Midnight eVTOL to the public with multiple flights over the weekend during the California International Air Show. One day later, we have footage of one of the flights that we want you to see (and try to hear).
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Archer shows of eVTOL tech during display flights in CA
As promised, Archer Aviation completed display flights with its Midnight eVTOL during both days of the 2025 California International Air Show in Salinas, CA, this past weekend. The Salinas Municipal Airport is actually home to Archer’s test flight facility, and the startup was a sponsor of the event.
The annual air show was expected to welcome over 65,000 attendees, not including the 1,000 expected to visit from Archer’s engineering, operations, and flight test departments. According to Archer, its Midnight eVTOL was scheduled for initial test flights, followed by notable flybys from other prominent groups, such as the Blue Angels and the USAF F-16 Viper Demo team.
While those other aerial teams are indeed more death-defying entertainment, their conventional technology is significantly more polluting, from an air and noise perspective. That’s a huge selling point for eVTOL developers like Archer, as they offer more and more public flight demonstrations to inform people of the benefits of this segment.
You have to see Archer’s flight footage of the Midnight to understand what we’re talking about. The aircraft is zooming by over the crowd, and you can not only clearly hear the emcee tallying off the eVTOL’s specs, but you can actually hear murmurs and conversations of people in the crowd—no chance you’re hearing any of that when the Blue Angels soar by.
Obviously, there’s a huge design gap between an all-electric air taxi and an F/A-18 Super Hornet, but the test flights still showcase how much quieter certain aerial travel can be. A better comparison would be a helicopter, which could easily be replaced by eVTOL vessels in the near future.
Until then, you can enjoy the demo eVTOL flight video from Archer below.
Source: Archer Aviation
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