Cargo E-bikes – Two Different Takes

Jukka Mäennenä on 2022-10-18

Cargo e-bikes are one of the hottest segments in the bicycle industry right now. And not only that, a lot bigger entity, the logistics industry is paying close attention to how the emerging field with the accompanying technology is developing. We are fortunate to work with the two most forward-thinking companies in the field – EAV and Ouca Bikes.

This article lists some of the similarities and differences in how the two companies go around harnessing modern e-bike technology’s capabilities to logistical needs. 

No Reinvented Wheels

Inventing or engineering something just for its sake is certainly respectable, but rarely convenient or efficient. Therefore it’s oftentimes preferable to use existing components that are readily available.

Both, EAV and Ouca Bikes, have put this philosophy into good use. As the name suggests, cargo e-bikes are still bicycles, but with very special needs posed by the unique demands subjected to them. Because of this, some commonly used bicycle components can’t simply meet the demanding criteria or as a choice are far from optimal. In these situations, it’s best to look outside the bicycle industry and see what’s being used. As can be seen from the lineup of both manufacturers, this has been done with good results. 

Essential Features

In order to fulfil its intended task, the cargo e-bike needs to carry quite a bit more than just the rider. This means that the structure needs to be capable of handling loads of intended magnitudes. The bike needs to be robust all over, including the frame/chassis, wheels and the parts that contain the payload, whether it’s goods, people or both. On top of all this, the design needs to be practical to use in all scenarios, whether that’s riding, loading or unloading goods, or charging the battery for example. 

It comes without saying, that just like a regular e-bike, a well-designed cargo e-bike needs to be reliable. The only thing more unpleasant than being left on the side with a broken bike is to experience that with a cargo e-bike. Therefore, heavy-duty components are well-warranted, like puncture-resistant tires, and durable drivetrain parts.

The latter brings us to the topic of drive systems. The Revonte ONE Drive System is the winning choice for cargo e-bikes for several reasons. First and foremost is the ride experience it offers – just pedal and the drive system will take care of the rest! No clunky shifting or chains skipping over cogs. Thanks to its ingenious design, the Revonte ONE Drive Unit boasts plenty of torque and peak power even for the most demanding use cases. Another thing worth mentioning that will make some product managers very happy is the fact that one type of hardware – drive units in this case – are used for all types of e-bikes! This simplifies design work of an order of magnitude and makes stock management easier. Last, but not least is the software-first approach. The Revonte ONE Drive System runs on highly sophisticated software that is developed constantly. Whenever an update is released, everyone running the Revonte ONE Drive system will enjoy the benefits. Revonte ONE Drive System is as future-proof as one can get.

Similarities & Differences

Even though Ouca Bikes and EAV are offering solutions to very similar needs, they got about it quite differently. Let’s start with Ouca Bikes, our partner hailing from Oulu, the northern part of Finland. The lineup can meet just about any need in the modern urban environment. Take the Transport model for example. With its cargo bay that reaches up to 570 litres of volume, it provides almost endless options for use cases – as long as the maximal load limit is adhered to. The Kiddiebus model on the other hand can move up to 8 small children – a true testament to the platform’s brilliant design and its versatility.

EAV on the other hand has taken another route. Their lineup is the broadest found in the fast-growing industry. The bikes themselves resemble a small-sized van with their windshields and sturdy-looking, but still lightweight chassis. Everything about EAV’s lineup radiates the intent for professional use. The logistics industry has taken note of this, and It does not come as a surprise that some of the biggest players in the field have expressed their strong interest. 

Photo credit: EAV

Both companies have taken a similar approach in designing their fleet by using components that are sourced outside the bicycle industry. Cargo e-bikes fill a very special need, and therefore the demands posed to the components can differ greatly from what they’re designed for. In some instances, a component used in regular e-bikes simply does not cut it, and therefore more heavy-duty alternatives are used.


In Summary

E-bikes are becoming more and more popular at an accelerating rate. Besides commuting, and sports and leisure use, the fast-developing technology will reach other fields as well – and quicker than most realize. Cargo e-bikes answer the last-mile dilemma by offering a highly agile and zero-emission option. In the future, small deliveries in the urban environment will be done with cargo e-bikes of trucks with accompanying diesel fumes. Also, cargo e-bikes will be a full-scale substitute for a car in modern cities.

EAV and Ouca Bikes are leading the field with the most advanced drive system on offer.

More than Just Bikes – Why E-bikes with the Revonte ONE Drive System Are a Category Breaker

Jukka Mäennenä on 2021-11-08

E-bike sales have rocketed during the past years which in turn is clearly reflected in the scenes of some of the biggest cities in the world, especially in Europe. E-bikes have quickly arisen to the position of a default vehicle for a variety of types of use.

Read further why e-bikes are more than just bikes equipped with an electric motor, and what type of role the Revonte ONE Drive System plays in this picture.

For Everyday Use

E-bikes are a vehicle and a means for transportation for everyday use. This has been the case with traditional bicycles already in certain parts of the world, but the assistance provided by the electrical motor takes the potential of this splendid vehicle to whole another level. With the aid of the electrical motor, one can ride further, longer, faster, and transport goods with ease. Before, all these tasks were reserved for the automobile, but times have changed and for several reasons.

When developing the Revonte ONE Drive System the following criteria were considered throughout the process to guide every engineering decision on the way, whether it was mechanics, electronics, or software-related. 

·      Ease of use. The use of the e-bike should be intuitive, nearly laughable easy. If one can ride a bike, then one should be able to use an e-bike equipped with Revonte ONE Drive System without any instructions. This is where the automatic & stepless feature of the drive system plays an essential role – just pedal, the drive system will take care of the rest, providing the correct gear ratio for every situation.

·      Low maintenance. It’s certainly nice to have every feature and trick in the book, but it matters very little if the hours used for riding and servicing have nearly a ratio of 1:1 or even worse. Thanks to the robust design and construction of the Revonte ONE Drive Unit, and the tried and true single-speed drivetrain arrangement, our drive system needs very little servicing and maintenance. When paired with a belt drive, even the occasional lubing of the chain can be left out! 

·      Up to date. When purchasing a bike with the Revone ONE Drive System, one is not only getting the state-of-the-art drive system, but it’s also going to stay that way for a long time to come, thanks for the continuous software updates which can be done over the 4G network via the inbuilt connection found on the drive unit.

More than just a Bike with a Motor 

It is still common that e-bikes are considered “just” bicycles with motors bolted on them. While this is true on the most basic level, the potential of this powerful combination is way, way higher.

In a recent story in Helsingin Sanomat Visio – the largest magazine in Finland – our CEO Otto Chrons summarized the potential of e-bikes and the role this technology is going to play in the near future nicely. 

“From the beginning, the main idea was to make the electric bike a worthy competitor to the car.”

-Otto Chrons, CEO of Revonte

This holds especially true with e-bikes using the Revonte ONE Drive System for the reasons stated earlier. E-bikes provide a convenient, easy, and environment-friendly way to commute. This has been the trajectory in countries with especially strong cycling culture, like in the Netherlands for example. The rest of Europe is following suit, as is most of the developed world.

Besides commuting and simply being a means of getting around, e-bikes are also the answer to the last mile dilemma in the professional transportation sector. City centers are getting more and more crowded, which makes it even more difficult for trucks, and delivery vans to navigate in the close-quarters environment. Cargo e-bikes provide the answer to this timely problem! Our partner EAV from the UK is a pioneer in this rapidly growing sector and changing how cargo is being transported in urban areas. 

The Health Benefits

One common misconception is that e-bikes are for lazy people. If the said individual chooses a car or an e-bike, it’s quite clear which option is better from a health and environmental standpoint. 

It’s been observed that e-bikes lower the threshold of getting on a bike, whether it is done in the form of commuting or recreationally. Besides this, e-bike users ride their bikes more frequently and for longer distances on average.

In this light, it can be said that e-bikes can act as a catalyst of getting people moving more frequently, and thus act as a medium for people in receiving their daily dose of exercise which has a major positive effect on the long-term. 

In Closing

Thanks to its ease of use and unprecedented ride experience, the Revonte ONE Drive System will change how e-bikes are used and thought of.

Whether it’s a daily commute, moving goods in a professional setting on a cargo e-bike, or just enjoying oneself in the saddle, the Revonte ONE Drive System will tick all the boxes.

The one drive system to rule them all.

Cargo E-bikes – What It Takes to Be a Winner?

Jukka Mäennenä on 2021-01-27

On our previous post, we took a look into EAV and their vast range of cargo e-bikes. We are especially excited to be partnering with a company who shares the same forward-thinking philosophy as us, and that they’re quickly established the pioneer status of the rapidly growing cargo e-bike segment.

In this post, we take a look at what it takes to build a market-leading cargo e-bike and what demands it poses to the drive system.

Metrics Matter

The cargo e-bikes can be considered as a high-performance sector, even though this might not sound intuitive. Moving heavy payloads, and accelerating up steep inclines poses great demands on the drive unit. Even though Revonte ONE Drive System has a lot more going on than just performance metrics, it has plenty of brawn in the form of high torque and peak power to back up the promises. 

See a practical demonstration of the torque capabilities in our recent video.

To power a cargo e-bike, not to mention a heavily loaded one, an ample amount of torque is needed. The ease of use is maximized by our unique stepless and automatic assist mode – no need to change gears, just pedal and enjoy the ride!

Go the Distance

The demands of high torque situations and appreciable payloads come with a cost, and the currency in question is energy. In order to have a respectable range and a battery life which covers an entire workday, we’ve developed the Revonte AKKU – the most versatile e-bike battery in the market.

By using the latest 21700 Li-ion cells the AKKU offers excellent energy storage capabilities, high outputs to power even the most demanding situations, fast charging and long life. The AKKU was developed in collaboration with Akku Vision GmbH, a leader in battery development from Germany. 

Two models will be available: AKKU 5 and AKKU 7. The former has the capacity of 530Wh, and the latter 705Wh, respectively. Different capacities are provided to meet every price point and need in the market. Despite the different capacities, both models share the same physical dimensions, making them interchangeable. 

What makes AKKU a true powerhouse in cargo e-bike use is its unique Smart Connection feature which makes it possible to connect up to four AKKU’s in parallel, therefore giving a combined capacity of over 2.8kWh. Smart Connection function has the flexibility to the extent that it can be used with AKKU’s of different capacities, and charge states. All this can be done without any additional devices or electronics, thanks to the smart in-built battery management system AKKU has.

Special Requirements 

EAV has its finger on the pulse when it comes to the requirements specified from the industry – and by this, we mean some of the biggest players in the world of logistics. It goes without saying that we’ve listened carefully what they have to say.

Cargo tracking and inventory requires a high level of connectivity. We have met this criterion from the start since our drive unit has in-built 4G, GPS and Bluetooth. Whatever the task, provided the relevant software architecture exists, our drive system can log, track or sort it. 

Remote diagnostics is another feature we’ve had on our spec list from the start. Thanks to the powerful software humming inside the Revonte ONE Drive System it has more than adequate capabilities to recognize and communicate any detected problems to the user and further up the chain if needed.

Consider the End-user

When designing a product, it is imperative to consider the requirements posed by all parties in the chain: manufacturer, customer, and end-user. As can be seen from the broad range of EAV’s fleet, their products are directed mostly to professional use. When it comes to commercial applications, especially in the field of logistics, the three things surface themselves time and time again. 

Efficiency, reliability, and sustainability.

Since energy stores are finite (applies to both; battery and the rider), the drive system needs to highly efficient to prevail in the competitive market. Reliability is nearly self-explanatory; non-moving cargo e-bike does not transport any goods and is more of a liability instead of an asset, which holds true to any type of vehicle used in logistics.

The highly configurable nature and the fact that the Revonte ONE Drive System is compatible with any type of bike with no variations in hardware makes it a winning choice for cargo e-bikes. Our partnership with EAV will be a testament to that. 

Meet EAV – The Leader of Cargo E-bike Development

Jukka Mäennenä on 2021-01-06

As you might remember from our previous press release, we have partnered with EAV who is the leading the development in the field of cargo e-bikes, and some might say that even in logistics. EAV shares the same forward-thinking ethos as we do which becomes obvious by just looking their lineup. Since the whole cargo e-bike sector is undergoing rapid growth and development we found it timely to introduce EAV in a more detailed manner.

The Missing Link

Humans have always had the need to move and transport goods since the origin of trade. The means of transport have improved greatly, from donkeys to locomotives and delivery trucks. Despite the great progress, there are still big challenges to solve. Interestingly, the weakest link in the logistic chain is the very final one, the last mile. This is especially true in modern urban environments which are densely populated, often overly built up, and therefore difficult to navigate through. Couple that with the notion that not too many people want to have a semi-truck stopping at their doorstep with the accompanying diesel fumes.

The logistical chain is not complete yet and it needs to reinvent itself and do so fast. EAV is here to fulfil that need.

Filling the Void

As you have learned the missing link in the logistics chain creates a void in the market. Considering the size of the global logistics industry, the void can be described simply as massive. EAV is filling this need with their innovative and eye-catching design, aiming to become the complete provider of sustainable urban transport. 

EAV has designed and engineered e-cargo bikes from a van down, rather than from a bike up! The electrical assistance enables the rider to effortlessly with a 150kg payload, without impending the ride characteristics. EAV has taken advantage of the torque and peak power that the Revonte ONE Drive System has at hand by designing an enclosed design; robust in looks and still light to ride.

The wide range covers all the models and needs one could think of. 

EAV Platform – Think of a lightweight pick-up truck that’s able to navigate in tightly built up urban areas as well as a factory floor. 

EAV Pickup – The perfect solution for transporting work equipment and other goods.

EAV 2Cubed – The best-selling model in the EAV range bridges the gap between a traditional cargo bike and a van. 

EAV RoRo – The modular 1.2m3-sized EuroPod container makes the RoRO a true asset for all types of industrial logistical needs.

HG EAV – What’s half-way between a cargo e-bike and tractor? Meet the HG EAV with its twin wheel trailer.

EAV Cool – Need to keep the cargo in temperature-controlled conditions? The EAV Cool has you covered.

EAV Range

The Man with a Vision

None of these ideas, and most importantly, the implementation does not happen by itself. Adam Barmby is the founder and the man behind EAV. His background as a designer, engineer and entrepreneur provided the ideal platform (pun intended) for the creation of such a disruptive company as EAV.

Adam Barmby

He has a passion for simple means of transport and wants to see a big cultural shift in daily urban mobility. His track record with his first company BAMD ltd progressed quickly from his friend’s garage to notable advanced composites manufacturer with a turnover of over £4.5m. Adam is set to do the same, but even on a bigger scale, with EAV. 

“The logistic industry is looking for a solution for a big problem and EAV is set to solve it. We are especially excited to team up with Revonte since their drive system is the only one in the market which can meet the high demands of cargo e-bikes.”

There’s a highly experienced and competent team besides Adam. Take Nigel Gordon-Stewart for example, the executive chairman, who has over three decades of experience in the automotive industry.

In Closing

The logistics industry is looking for an answer for the last mile problem, and e-cargo bikes provide a solution that is not only practical, economical but has also green values with its zero-emission nature. 

In the next article, we will take a detailed look at the needs of the logistics industry and how e-cargo bikes are meeting them. 

2020 – A Year in Review

Jukka Mäennenä on 2020-12-31

It can be said without any hesitation that the year 2020 was full of surprises, rapidly changing situations, stretched deadlines, and general disarray. We kept our head low, concentrated on the tasks at hand, and continued developing the Revonte ONE Drive System for the upcoming launch in 2021. 

Here’s a summary of what happened during 2020.

The Year of Revonte

A lot of things can take place within a year. This is especially true when developing a new and innovative product in a competitive environment. Steady progress and occasional challenges were accompanied with big breakthroughs and new partnerships. 

Read the following list to know the essentials of Revonte in 2020. 

03 March

During the first quarter of the year we announced our partnership with the innovative – even disruptive – company from the UK named EAV. Their forward-thinking concept of cargo e-bikes has set the pace for the whole industry. Cargo e-bikes solve the last-mile dilemma and EAV’s range covers every imaginable need and purpose. 

Also, a story about our Drive System run on Pinkbike. If you’re interested of knowing what’ inside the Revonte Drive Unit, this is the one to read.

05 May

Simple, minimalistic, even elegant – those were some of the design goals of the Revonte Controller. We purposefully decided to go screenless with the design which leaves the final decision to the user. After all, configurability is in our DNA and the Controller is in line with that. 

Instead of occupying more space from the usually crowded cockpit, we take the opposite approach. Two brake levers, and the Revonte Controller forms the complete interface between the bike and the rider. No separate trigger or shifter for the gears are needed. Less is more. 

08 August

One of the many strengths of the Revonte ONE Drive System is the simple, robust and clutter-free single-speed drivetrain. Besides the traditional and time-tested chain, the Revonte ONE Drive System enables the use of a belt drive. 

To answer the inquiries we built a prototype with the industry-leading Gates carbon belt.

09 September

An energy storage is needed to employ the features of the automatic and stepless features of the Revonte ONE Drive System. To make everything right from the start we decided to partner up with class-leading German battery manufacturer Akku Vision GmbH, and develop our own battery.

Meet Revonte AKKU 5 and AKKU 7. Both models share the latest Li-ion technology and physical dimensions to meet every need and price point in the market. A unique feature is the smart battery management system which makes it possible to connect up to four batteries with the combined capacity of over 2.8kWh!

10 October

Eurobike gets cancelled. First the premier event was postponed, and eventually cancelled. This was unfortunate since we had made big preparations for the upcoming show and were looking forward to it. 

Revonte GmbH – a German subsidiary! To meet the demands of the European market we established a German branch to the ever-growing needs of the European e-bike market. Mr. Uwe Daniel, a long-time member of our team, was appointed as the CEO of the new company.

Cargo e-bikes are picking up and big time! An interesting development took place in a short timespan; cargo e-bikes rose to the position of becoming almost an industry leader. Our partner EAV is in the forefront of this movement and providing solutions to the challenges faced in the logistic chain. It’s not a coincidence that the Revonte ONE Drive System is the drive system of choice for cargo e-bikes.

We are looking forward to the year 2021 and we believe we aren’t the only one.

12 December

The release of the long awaited Revonte test ride video saw its premiere in December. Besides some test ride material the video included a general update of the past year. 

See what’s up with the Revonte ONE Drive System by viewing the video. On that note, see you next year!

Why Revonte ONE Is the Drive System of Choice for Cargo E-bikes

Jukka Mäennenä on 2020-11-09

E-bikes are taking an ever-growing share of the bicycle market pie. With the advent of new bike types that were not even on the map some years ago, such as cargo e-bikes, the need for a matching drive system is higher than ever before. Even the most conservative predictions indicate that the popularity and therefore the market share of e-bikes is growing at a fast pace.

Our drive system will power any type of e-bike with a single set of hardware. From the start we’ve designed our drive system to be highly adaptable. When this is coupled with the high performance metrics and unrivaled battery capacity, we have a true winner when it comes to cargo e-bike drive systems.

Enter the Revonte ONE Drive System. Read further to learn more about its unique benefits and forward-thinking that makes it the drive system of choice for cargo e-bikes.

The Versatile Powerhouse

The Revone ONE Drive Unit has a lot of going on inside its stealth black surface. The housing contains the motor, the gears and circuit boards – or smarts as we like to call them – all in one compact package. As all high-performance motors, the Revonte ONE Drive Unit is a mid-motor. For cargo e-bikes, this motor type is the superior choice in every way. 

From the start of the design we wanted to have “one hardware” to fit all types of bikes – hence the name, ONE. A testament to this is that the Revonte ONE Drive System can be easily adopted from a city commuter bike to an heavy-duty cargo e-bike. All of the configurations are done on the software side. 

Even though the raw performance metrics are just one part of ride characteristics, Revonte ONE Drive System is all but a wallflower in this game. Very high peak values in torque and power guarantees that an even heavily loaded bike will accelerate in a quick fashion, be it flat or uphill. How much are those numbers exactly? “Enough”, as one British car manufacturer states their engine power.

Staying Connected 

All the “smarts” aren’t packed into the Revonte Drive Unit for nothing. Besides withholding the control electronics needed for delivering the smooth and honed assistance behaviour, it includes all the connectivity technology that one could wish for. In-built GPS, 4G and Bluetooth enables not only efficient communication between the drive system and the rider via our app, but also brings other features to the table which are highly valuable in a professional setting, especially when it comes to cargo e-bikes.

For example, GPS and 4G enable real-time cargo tracking with pinpoint accuracy, therefore making pick-ups and deliveries possible even on a short notice, not unlike how Taxi cabs operate in current times. Of course, the final list of services and options are to be decided by the service provider. But most importantly, the Revonte ONE Drive System opens the door for possibilities that have been so far on a nearly uncharted territory. 

Tailored Battery Technology

The Revonte AKKU is the most flexible e-bike battery in the market, and for a good reason! Packed with the latest Li-ion 21700 cell technology, it provides state of the art features when it comes to battery life, capability of high power outputs, and charging properties. The AKKU is offered in two models to accommodate a variety of needs and price points existing in the market. The two models are named the AKKU 5 and AKKU 7. Their respectable capacities are 530Wh, and 705Wh, respectably. 

The unique smart linking feature makes it possible to connect up to four batteries in parallel with the combined capacity of over 2,8kWh! This is a truly competitive advantage in the cargo e-bike domain since large battery capacity will keep the bike and cargo running for a full workday or even more without the need to stop for a recharge or battery change. 

Adam Barbmy, the CEO of EAV, values this feature highly because of the increased  operating range which is one of the decisive factors in commercial cargo e-bike applications. “We want to offer a range from 30-120km per day depending on application.”, says Adam. 

Learn more about our collaboration with EAV from our previous press release.

Revonte ONE Drive System to Power EAV Cargo E-Bikes  

Best of all, the smart connection feature of the Revonte AKKU does not require any additional electronics or components. The battery itself and the battery management system (BMS for short) was developed in tight collaboration with Akku Vision GmbH, a German industry leader in battery technology, with the goal of creating the most advanced and user-friendly solution for storing propulsive energy for e-bike use.

ONE Drive System for Every Need

The Revonte ONE Drive System is the most versatile drive system in the market, catering the needs of every e-bike type imaginable, all the way from propelling an ordinary commuter to powering a fleet of cargo e-bikes which fill the last-mlle gap in the logistics chain.

The mid-drive construction, simple and low-maintenance single-speed drivetrain, top-of the line performance metrics and highly configurable nature of the Revonte ONE Drive System make it the smartest drive system around, no matter if the application is heavy commercial use or occasional leisure ride with heavier than usual carry-ons.

Get in touch with our sales team to learn more and have your cargo e-bike equipped with the Revonte ONE Drive System, the leading choice for cargo e-bikes.

Cargo E-bikes – From Latecomer to Industry Leader

Jukka Mäennenä on 2020-10-28

E-bikes are taking an ever-growing share of the bicycle market pie. In a short time span, the electric brethren has evolved from an absurdity into a market drawcard  – and this applies to every type of bicycle. Cargo e-bikes are a relative latecomer to the game, and interestingly this previously niché category is about to rise to the role of a major player in the e-bike industry.

One limiting factor that’s been handicapping the development of this highly potential industry is the lack of competitive drive system solutions – until now. As you can learn below Revonte ONE Drive System is the perfect match for the unique needs of cargo e-bikes.

Read further to learn more and how Revonte ONE Drive System fits into this picture.

The Last Mile

Much has been discussed about the logistic chain and especially the last part of it, also known as the last mile phase. What’s the best option to deliver goods, especially small to medium sized ones, commercial and industrial? 

A semi-truck? As cumbersome as an elephant in a porcelain shop, not to mention the nearly eclipse-causing diesel fumes.

A delivery van? Definitely a better option than a semi, but the same cons do still apply, albeit on a smaller scale.

A bicycle courier. A worthy and most importantly, a green option, but very limited in capacity.  

Do you see a missing piece somewhere in between? The cargo e-bike is the perfect option that fills the void that’s been left between the bicycle courier and a delivery van. 

Capacity vs. Maneuverability 

There’s always a trade off between capacity and maneuverability. A freight train has a tremendous payload capacity, but the manoeuvrability is limited to reach of train tracks. On the other hand, bicycle couriers can maneuver oneself to just about anywhere, but the capacity is limited to letters and very small items. 

Cargo e-bikes meet the payload capacity and manoeuvrability in a perfect spot! No other vehicle or medium of transportation can move relatively heavy items, up to tens of kilograms, in close quarters like the cargo e-bike. The feline suppleness and carrying capacity of a mule combined are combined all in one in a cargo e-bike, if a proverb from the animal kingdom is to be used. 

Colossal Market Opportunity

The size and scale of the logistics industry are hard to fathom. The number of daily deliveries worldwide is staggering and there’s a good reason to believe that it’s only going to grow from here side by side with ecommerce and general direction of consumer behavior, not to mention industrial needs.

If one would like to run the numbers in a very conservative way, let’s say that in the following years just 1-2% of the last mile deliveries would be done on a cargo e-bike, the number is still massive. Whoever gets here first and gets the process dialed all the way by the means of proper vehicle fleet, efficient control of the logistics chain and most importantly, by providing a viable green option beside the traditional means will certainly have the upper hand and the largest share of the market pie. 

For example, it’s no secret that one company which shares the name of a rainforest located in South America is looking hard into new last mile delivery options. And they are not the only one. The big logistic players with the three-letter names are taking part in the same race. 

The ONE Benefit

When it comes to drive systems for cargo e-bike use, the Revonte ONE Drive System is very – or even the most relevant option in the market. Instead of just taking our word for it, consider the following benefits our drive system offers:

  • Mid-drive drive unit. The hub motor isn’t relevant for high-performance applications which is even more relevant in cargo e-bikes. The mid-drive design gives the ultimate design freedom and flexibility for the engineer in designing the most efficient drivetrain, whether cargo e-bike or not. 
  • High torque and wattage. The Revonte ONE Drive Unit has class-leading performance metrics, even though the ride experience isn’t only about the numbers. Peak torque of over 100Nm will suffice moving a cargo e-bike of any type up the steepest of hills – assuming that loading (amount of payload) is done in a somewhat sensible manner.
  • Revonte AKKU – the most advanced e-bike battery system. We are confident in saying that the freshly launched Revonte AKKU is the most advanced e-bike battery. First, it uses the latest Li-ion cell technology and the smart linking feature enables unprecedented battery capacity and range. 
  • Other inbuilt features. The pros do not end here. The Revonte ONE Drive System has other inbuilt connectivity features that are very relevant for cargo e-bike use. These will be covered in our next article. 

It’s worth noting that with the exception of the mid-drive feature, pros listed above are unique to the Revonte ONE Drive System. Currently, no other drive system can offer similar features. 

Utility Vehicle of the Future

The fast-changing landscape of urban mobility is getting even more crowded, but still, goods and people need to move even faster and ever-tightening schedules. The new and increasing demands ask for new solutions. Cargo e-bikes are among those which has have been noted all the way in the mainstream media (e.g. Fully Charged show published on the 20th of October).

We are proud to be at the forefront of the green-colored technological advancement with the Revonte ONE Drive System, no matter if it’s about moving people, cargo, or both. Stay tuned for our next article about the subject.

EAV and Revonte ONE Drive System – A New Type of Cargo E-bike

Jukka Mäennenä on 2020-03-11

EAV Powered by Revonte

As you might have already heard we have collaborated with EAV – a new generation vehicle production company – with a goal in producing an innovative cargo e-bike by integrating the revolutionary Revonte ONE Drive System into a new type cargo bike platform.

The powerhouse of choice for the upcoming and innovative EAV models will be the Revonte ONE Drive System. 

Out of the Box Thinking

The traditional model for cargo bikes includes a bicycle with added cargo-carrying capabilities in the form of a platform or similar construction. EAV has taken almost the opposite route by approaching the design from a cargo van point of view. 

EAVans and EAVcabs have the capabilities and features previously found only from motorized vehicle categories, but it still falls under the legislation of normal e-bikes. Besides improved payload capacities, the EAVans bring several benefits from safety and operational point of view. 

Despite the hefty appearance, EAV’s models are incredibly light, thanks to a highly optimized design, material choices, and manufacturing processes. Besides the high-tech features, simplicity has been a priority throughout the design process so that the number of moving parts is kept to a minimum to make the EAVans and EAVcabs very robust and low-maintenance.

The Versatile Powerhouse

The highly configurable nature of the Revonte ONE Drive System makes it an excellent match for cargo e-bikes. Heavy payloads require raw numbers in the form of peak power output and torque to keep the bike moving – both of which the ONE Drive Unit possesses. It’s not just about the numbers, though. A first-class ride experience requires just as much brains as it asks for brawn, and this is where the Revonte ONE Drive System truly differentiates itself.

An ingenious mechanical design of the drive unit is enhanced with sophisticated software which is where the magic lays. The behavior of the drive system can be configured depending on the bike model and later fine-tuned by the user via our dedicated app. 

A list to summarize why Revonte ONE Drive System is the advantageous choice for cargo e-bikes.

  • Automatic & stepless transmission makes accelerating effortless in all types of terrain.
  • High peak power output and torque, up to 1500W and 90Nm to be precise.
  • Highly configurable assistance modes and ride behavior enabled by sophisticated control software. 
  • Mid-drive design is the optimal choice from a weight distribution and design point of view. This applies as well to cargo e-bikes as to regular bikes.

Combining the Revonte ONE Drive System with the modular construction of the EAV line-up opens new areas for the design and use of cargo e-bikes. The potential has been noted not only inside the industry but among the more mainstream media. One such example is a recent feature in the popular Newatlas.com tech site.

New Chapter in Logistics

EAV is the first cargo e-bike company to employ the Revonte ONE Drive System and among the first wave of e-bike manufacturers in benefiting the many features of the smartest e-bike drive system available.

We at Revonte are enthusiastic to collaborate with EAV to advance the logistical industry by creating a cargo e-bike with unprecedented features. No other solution has similar payload carrying capacities, safety aspects, simple but versatile construction, and forward-thinking feel to it. 

In spite of being a relatively new player in the field, EAV has already established relationships with globally operating logistics companies. We are excited to join the journey in turning the next chapter in the logistical chain.

Cargo E-bikes Pave the Way For Electrical Transportation

Jukka Mäennenä on 2020-02-05

E-bikes are here to stay and it is not something to be argued with. The relevant question is to what extent will e-bikes substitute their “acoustic siblings”. Commuter bikes and e-mtb’s are undergoing an electric revolution, but it does not end there. The main goal in developing our drive system was to make not only compatible but also the most competitive drive system to all types of e-bikes. Let us explain why the Revone ONE Drive System is the powerhouse of choice for cargo e-bikes.

Cargo bike concept

Challenges with Urban Environment

Unquestionably, the urban environment is changing and so is urban mobility. Private motoring leads to heavy traffic, long commuting times, wrecked nerves and pollution. Combine this with the ever-growing transportation of goods and the recipe of serious traffic jams are already brewing. Most – if not all – of city centres were not designed for the number of cars that swarm the streets. The roads and even the widest highways are often seriously undersized for the level of use they encounter daily.

Combine this with the lack of parking spots and living space in general, not to mention the poor air quality that most metropolitan areas suffer from. It is evident that alternative options for transportation need to be developed.

E-bikes offer one piece of the puzzle when it comes to commuting. It does not end there, though. The same technology can be harnessed to small-scale transportation as well. 

Pedal-driven Transportation

Bicycle-equipped courier isn’t a new invention. Pedal-driven velocipedes have been used for transportation purposes since the 1860s. A regular bicycle is well-suited for delivering letters and other small shipments, but the limits of the payload are reached rather quickly. 

The next organic step in the evolution of different bicycle types was the invention of cargo bike, or also known as the freight bicycle. First used by tradesmen to deliver mail and conveniences, like milk and bread. It is telling that in the UK, this bicycle type is sometimes referred to as a butcher’s bike or delibike.

Nowadays cargo bikes are used routinely in purposes such as:

  • Courier and delivery services in urban environments.
  • Child transport – this type of use is growing in popularity rapidly. 
  • Industrial use, ie.g. warehouse inventory transportation and tool and raw material transportation in large industrial facilities. 
  • Mail delivery – the UK post office alone operates a fleet of 33,000 bikes.

As one can see, the cargo bikes can be used in a variety of ways and they provide a competitive option to combustion engine powered means of transport, especially in short distances and small to medium payloads. 

Cargo Bikes Supercharged

Electrical assistance can literally supercharge cargo bikes. In traditional bikes, heavy loads and rolling hills will take the win over even the most dedicated courier unless he or she has the legs of a Tour de France contender or elite-level track cyclist. 

The continuous assistance of 250W will make the difference between a struggle on a saddle and enjoyable riding. Couple this with the high peak torque value of 90Nm which the Revonte ONE Drive System possesses. This amount of torque is enough to climb up even the steepest of hills with a respectable payload. 

Since cargo bikes are inherently heavier than traditional models, increasing battery size or even adding a second battery won’t cause any problems weight-wise. Bigger battery means more range so that one full workday can be covered with one charge. This, in turn, means more efficient transportation. 

Revonte ONE is the Powerhouse of Choice for Cargo E-bikes

Revonte ONE Drive System is the most versatile e-bike drive system around. Mid-drive unit is the best fit for all types of bicycles, including cargo bikes. Technical specifications are in the leading class and are more than enough for cargo e-bikes. Heavy industrial use is a case of its own but for everyday use, Revonte ONE Drive System is a trusty companion.

 The automatic and stepless function of the transmission is a very good fit for cargo e-bikes since it enables the rider to concentrate 100% on riding and observing the surroundings, whether it be in an urban or industrial setting. In a varied terrain with lots of hills or steep inclines, the automatic feature is particularly useful, since it prevents the rider from getting stuck because of too high gear selection. The sophisticated control software of the Revonte ONE Drive System continuously adjusts the assistance based on the inputs received from the rider and the angle of incline. 

Because of the software-first approach, the behavior of electrical assistance can be tailored according to the bike model and the type of use it’s designed for. Configuration can be done in two steps: by the bike manufacturer and lastly, by the rider. Not only can the bike manufacturer decide the ride-characteristics of the bike, but the rider is also able to fine-tune them as he or she wishes. Remote diagnostics and service recommendations are provided by the inbuilt 4G connection provides. This way, it is made sure that the bike is operational when it counts and recommended service times can be planned accordingly. The Revonte ONE Drive System is currently the only motor option to offer these features.

Cargo E-bikes provide a noteworthy option for transporting small to medium-size goods. Adding a highly-developed electrical motor to the mix quite literally supercharges the bike, giving it the ability to move heavier loads, further than before and with more convenience. 

The future of electrically-powered transportation is here and cargo e-bikes are a part of it. Don’t miss out.

If you’re in the business of building cargo e-bikes, get in touch [email protected]