Usually, when I first time heard and searched about electric cycles or e-bikes same as like you I was shocked, why it's so expensive?
As a content creator on e-cycles, I keep researching this innovative e-mobility option to create valuable information for our viewers.
During the research, I noticed that the e-cycle trend is growing but many people are confused about its pricing.
If you land on this blog article then I'm sure that you also want to know the answer to why these are so costly.
It has some major factors behind high pricing, Let's discuss them individually.
Electrical components
It is an e-cycle equipped with important electrical components, making it more costly than a traditional bicycle.
Motor: The 250W BLDC motor is used in these e-cycles, giving smooth speed without pedaling. These latest technology motors add more costs but are more efficient and long-lasting.
I easily explain to you, that you have heard about BLDC fans it has almost double the price of normal fans but they have more features like remote operation, long-lasting, and most importantly they are energy efficient.
Battery: The batteries in EVs are the most important part. It's a lithium-ion battery used in an e-cycle to store energy and power up the motor. It is lightweight and has a longer lifespan which is compatible with e-cycles and other EVs.
However, these lithium-ion batteries are the most expensive components of these e-cycles. The cost is about 8K to 10K, making e-cycles more expensive than traditional cycles.
Other Controllers
The electric cycle is also well-equipped with other important controllers that manage overall functionality. These controllers also add production costs, but in return, you have a comfortable, smooth, and safe ride.
Display: E-cycles have a small display on the handlebar that shows battery bars, ignition, speed, etc.
Digital meter: The premium types of e-bikes or e-cycles have digital meters that properly show the battery bars, speed, riding mode, etc. same as an electric scooter.
Throttle: The accelerator or throttle on the right side of the handlebar of used to control the speed and provide an effortless ride.
Charger: These e-bicycles have powerful and easy-to-plug-in chargers to recharge the battery. Its cost also depends on the ampere, indicating how fast a charging is.
Flash and tail light: It also has flash and tail lights for better visibility which helps in safe riding on dark streets. I think it's an important part because these bicycles have a higher speed than normal cycles.
Wiring: To maintain the connection between the motor, battery, throttle, display, and flash/tail light, it has the safest wiring system.
Toolkit: Most companies provide a toolkit with an e-cycle for assembling a part and helping with minor repairs. I think it is a very convenient thing just like other vehicles.
Manufacturing Materials
Frame-set: The frameset of any bicycle is a very crucial part. It holds overall parts and components. So, it's essential to know which materials brands use to manufacture the frame.
Aluminum, steel, and carbon steel are some of the most common materials used in the manufacturing of framesets for e-cycles. All have their pros and cons and pricing varies depending on these materials.
Material | Key features | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|---|
Aluminum | Lightweight, stiff | Affordable, corrosion-resistant, good strength-to-weight ratio | Less comfortable due to stiffness, less durable for long-term |
High tensile steel | Lower carbon content | Affordable, durable | Heavy, less strong than other steel |
Carbon steel | High carbon content | Strong, durable, repairable, affordable | Heavy, susceptible to corrosion |
These three types of materials are commonly used in e-cycles price range of 23000-30000. However, the best materials like carbon fiber, scandium, and titanium are used by brands in most premium e-cycle models whose pricing is much higher.
Disc-brakes: Almost all brands provide mechanical dual-disc braking systems in their models. The disc brakes are very impactful with higher speeds which is essential for riders' safety. And sure, it also impacts e-cycle pricing.
Other parts: With higher speeds, the e-cycle needs to have strengthened parts such as brake lever, brake wire, forks, rims, tires, etc. than the normal cycle which also adds additional cost.
Research and Development (R&D)
We have witnessed in the past 3-4 years that electric cycles are gaining popularity in the Indian market. But, instead, did not see the expected growth in sales.
The reason behind this is, that these are innovative e-mobility means and it is still in their evolving phase.
The brands are spending a big chunk on research and development for how to improve battery life, motor efficiency, and overall design.
Maybe these investments make e-cycles more affordable or people will be aware of their long-term benefits to the common man and the sales will increase.
Branding and Marketing
As we said above, e-cycles are innovative commuting options, so brands are trying to make people aware of them in various ways and creating brand value.
The brands also spend a lot on branding and marketing to make their reputation and spread awareness about e-cycles among people. It is also impacting on the pricing.
India's popular e-cycle manufacturer Emotorad appointed Indian cricket superstar MS Dhoni as a brand ambassador in recent months. Thus, it will help build trust and reputation, which will increase sales relatively.
Will the prices of e-cycles be reduced in the near future?
We discussed the five most common but important reasons why electric cycles are so expensive. Now, let's discuss whether there is any chance that prices will come down in the near future.
First thing, I want to tell you that good quality e-cycles come under the 23000 to 30000 which is a feasible pricing.
However, if brands keep in mind some aspects then we can hope maybe prices can go down a bit more.
As we discussed on R&D, the brands are doing research and development to make e-cycles more efficient, durable, user-friendly, etc.
They are also working on making batteries and motors more long-lasting. This can make e-cycles more affordable than now because if they go long-lasting, people realize it is a profitable deal and sales will increase.
The second one is as people become aware of e-cycle benefits trust will build on this new commuting means so it will also be very helpful in increasing sales.
And the sales will increase then the competition will also increase among the brands. Due to this competition, the brands may be compelled to reduce e-cycle pricing a bit.
It is my opinion if you have any idea on pricing please write it down in the comment box below.
Customer Perception and Market Trends
Customers should also have to change their perception of e-cycle pricing. I have noticed customers directly compare it to the normal cycle then they make a mindset it is very expensive.
It is very different from normal pedal cycles and provides various advantages for commuting up to 30km to 50km. Internal link
But the good thing is that people are now rapidly adopting electric vehicles. They are willing to pay more for quality, reliability, and advanced features. It is a good sign for the e-cycle market.
Conclusion
So, I'm wrapping up now, I have covered various key factors behind why are electric cycle so expensive.
I hope you have properly understood these reasons and now you can make the right decision if you thinking of purchasing an e-cycle.
If you still have any doubts please comment to us and you can also contact to official website of the company where you want to purchase an e-cycle.
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