Forget clunky gear shifts and not knowing what's up ahead; the future of cycling is connected. A new wave of cyclists is ditching traditional pedal power and embracing real-time data, tailored apps and high-tech features to make every ride smoother, safer and a lot more fun.
The e-bike revolution is in full swing. Over 130 million e-bikes hit the streets between 2020 and 2023, and that number is steadily increasing. With a projected global market value of $72.54 billion by 2029, connected e-bikes are turbocharging the sector's rapid growth.
But what makes connected e-bikes the top choice for cyclists in Europe?
Saddle up as we explore the world of connected e-bikes and examine how these technological marvels shape the urban commuting and leisure cycling landscape.
Connected e-bikes: More than just a motor
Unlike standard e-bikes, connected e-bikes are packed with high-tech features that make riding more accessible, secure and rewarding for all cyclists.
Here's what sets connected e-bikes apart:
Real-time cycling smarts
Connected e-bikes are equipped with IoT (Internet of Things) devices that collect and transmit a wealth of data, including:
- E-bike battery life
- GPS tracking
- Distance traveled
- Speed
- Weather warnings
- Real-time safety alerts (through collision avoidance sensors)
- Anti-theft monitoring and alarms
Data is collected through Bluetooth or cellular networks and displayed in real-time on the rider's smartphone or built-in display.
From here, riders can:
- Set fitness goals and track progress
- Choose the best route and share it with friends
- Stay safe and avoid bad weather
- Protect the e-bike itself
The IoT market is anticipated to grow at a staggering 12.7% CAGR from 2023 to 2030, and connected e-bikes showcase the potential of this exciting trend. Real-time data can transform everyday cycling into an engaging, personalised adventure. Who wouldn't benefit from a personal cycling concierge riding with them on every journey?
Clever tech enhances connected e-bikes' longevity
E-bike tech doesn't just make riding more exhilarating; it also extends the lifespan of your trusty steed.
Take remote diagnostics tools, for example. This technology collects data from the bike's sensors (e.g. motor temperature and battery voltage) to spot potential problems with its hardware components, allowing riders and mechanics to solve minor issues before they snowball.
No wonder the remote diagnostics device market is booming. Set to rise at a 14.74%% CAGR to $23.73 billion worldwide by 2031, features like these help e-bike owners save money on repairs and replacement parts. Talk about cost-effective and sustainable transport at its finest!
As the connected e-bike ecosystem becomes more sophisticated, riders' needs will also increase. With increasingly valuable e-bikes hitting the streets, demand for tailored e-bike insurance has already skyrocketed by 292% since 2019.
Brands in the connected e-bike space must stay ahead of this trend by partnering with forward-thinking insurance providers like Laka. Our connected e-bike cover gets riders back on the saddle of their original bike ASAP. This keeps riders rolling on their beloved bikes and helps connected e-bike brands attract lifelong customers.
Connected e-bikes are creating a paradigm shift in the cycling industry
Pulling away from the individual rider experience, the benefits of connected e-bikes are rippling across the cycling industry as a whole. Here are some proof points that highlight how connected e-bikes are shaping the future of green mobility:
Connected e-bike riders are sustainability champions
Connected e-bikes can save riders an average of 249 g of CO2 for every 1 km traveled and cost less than half a penny per mile to charge (if they're not using regenerative braking to extend battery life even further). In fact, 18% of European e-bike owners say they purposefully bought their e-bike to reduce their carbon footprint.
For many, connected e-bikes are more than just a great way to get from A to B; they represent cyclists' moves to secure a greener future for us all – cheers to that!
Governments are shifting gears to accommodate cyclists
Cycling initiatives are gaining momentum across Europe thanks to the EU's Declaration on Cycling. Governments in countries like France, Germany and the Netherlands are boosting investment in cycling infrastructure and e-bike purchasing subsidies to encourage citizens to cycle more regularly –– and the numbers speak for themselves:
55% of European e-bike owners say they cycle more often now than when they owned a traditional bike, with 91% of those surveyed reporting using their e-bikes daily.
Connected e-bike data levels up the buying journey
71% of consumers expect brands to offer personalised services. Connected e-bike data provides a treasure trove of insights into rider behaviours brands can use to make the buying journey more customer-centric and rewarding.
For instance, connected e-bike manufacturers, retailers and IoT vendors can analyse rider trends to craft compelling customer experiences that match consumers' ideal connected e-bike model.
Connected e-bike insurance is the final step in the data-driven customer journey. We work with brands to integrate instant access to great cover directly from connected apps or online and in-store checkouts. With Laka, brands can meet the growing demand for personalised service and unleash the full potential of connected e-bike ownership for their growing customer base.
Laka: Blazing a new trail in the e-bike insurance landscape
The connected e-bike revolution is attracting a new generation of cyclists who care deeply about the environment, the quality of their ride and the security of their equipment.
However, traditional embedded e-bike insurance models are often too rigid and expensive and fail to motivate riders to get out on their bikes.
This is where Laka is rewriting the rules of insurance. We build a sense of community and shared responsibility in our cover. Instead of high monthly premiums, we track the total amount everyone in our cycling collective claims at the end of each month, so if there are fewer accidents or thefts, everyone pays less. But, there's a safety net – we also set a cap on premiums, even in months with a high volume of claims, so the community is always protected with affordable cover.
For e-bike manufacturers, retailers and IoTs, connecting Laka's revolutionary e-bike insurance model into your sales journeys brings the following benefits with bells on:
- Flexible cover: Our adaptive pricing model reflects real-life riding habits, lowering the cost of premiums for all customers.
- Streamlined claims: We handle all claims in-house with the help of our cycling expert team. This means that even during busy periods, we can process most claims within 24 hours (although our fastest claim took only 41 minutes, just saying!).
- Insurance support: We provide our partners with a dedicated account manager who can help with all connected e-bike insurance queries. We'll even provide your sales teams with training and marketing materials to boost sales.
- Seamless international expansion: Our centralised insurance platform serves customers across Europe, so you don't have to worry about changing rules and insurance regulations overseas. Everything 'works' like a well-oiled machine!
We've been voted the UK's Best Cycle Insurance Provider for six years, making us the perfect fit for adding value to your connected e-bike offerings. Get in touch today to become a Laka partner.