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A2B has launched a range of six distinctive electric bikes for 2013.
Thrust into the spotlight at a launch at the National Theatre last month, three will be available in spring, with a further three German models launching in October.
Featuring sturdy frames and unisex designs, the launch is something of a rebranding exercise for the brand too. Hero Eco general manager Fernando Kuefer – driver of the A2B business – said: “We are seeing a rising appetite for high quality design and good performance e-bikes in the UK market, as consumers are increasingly looking towards pedal assist bikes to complement their journeys around town.”
Range details
Heading the range and topping the price points is the Entz, available in standard (£2,699) and deluxe (£3,199) versions. Touted as the brand’s most advanced machine to date, it is the first in the world to incorporate AEG-Centredrive motor technology – a compact disc drive motor the size of the front chain wheel which is integrated into the design of the bike. With a top speed of 15.5mph, the Entz is pitched at the inner city commuter market and launches in autumn.
Next up, the £2,450 Shima has been fitted with premium components for a luxurious and speedy ride. A2B said it offers the benefits of the hybrid’s pedal assist with a faster top speed of 28mph. The model’s 500W propulsion system delivers a range of up to 50km (31 miles).
The Obree’s (£2,199) German propulsion system offers an extended 45 mile range and a lower centre of gravity for a stable ride and a more fashion-orientated look.
The state-of-the-art Ørsted (£1,899) has a more traditional ‘bike’ feel, a 30 to 62 mile range and a top speed of 15.5 mph. It launches autumn 2013.
The traditionally styled Ferber (RRP £1,400) combines faster, more responsive manoeuvrability with wider, 26-inch wheels for a more upright and comfortable ride.
Finally, the Galvani (£1,450) is available in male and female iterations. Both sport larger wheels to move over obstacles more easily, a maximum speed of 15.5mph and a range of up to 56 miles, suited to longer and more challenging journeys.
Currently sold in 30 countries, all A2B models are sold under a ‘back to base’ system which ensures that, if dealers and distributors are unable to fix one of the e-bikes in the range, A2B will transport it to their nearest warehouse for repair.
Naveen Munjal, HERO Eco Group MD added: “It’s an incredibly exciting time for the e-bike market here in the UK. We’re confident that we’ve created our most innovative models to date; models that are designed to have a positive impact on the environment whilst also providing commuters with the very best in state-of-the-art e-bike technology.”
