To put it bluntly, Akku Vision’s entry into the ebike market has so far only been through the back door. With its battery solutions under the E-Bike Vision brand, the manufacturer is one of the second-tier suppliers that interested parties usually only come across when original batteries on the bike need to be replaced. Now, however, the company takes the offensive and addresses bicycle manufacturers directly with a programme called “Bespoke Battery Concept”. The goal: to move up into the league of original equipment manufacturers. In an interview with Elektrofahrrad24, Daniel Maiberger, founder and CEO of Akku Vision, explains how this is to be achieved.
Mr Maiberger, last year Akku Vision launched the Bespoke Battery Concept. What exactly is it about?
Behind the name is our foray into the OEM business as an original equipment manufacturer. It shows what is technically feasible. In the future, we will not only supply replacement batteries for pedelecs, but also become active as an original equipment manufacturer in this area. In the course of 2022, the first customers will receive solutions from our company. Other drive manufacturers will follow as early as next year.
What expectations do you have of this project?
The Bespoke Battery Concept was the door opener for our cooperation with various drive manufacturers and has caused a stir within the ebike industry. Up to 900 watt hours in such a small volume will not be available from any other manufacturer in the foreseeable future. Thus, the Bespoke Battery Concept has more than fulfilled its task. We are happy to already be in close contact with other customers who will use it.
How do you rate your chances of establishing yourself as a serious competitor in the long term alongside the numerous and very well-known competitors?
The chances are very good. Our customers understand our concept and gratefully accept it. With Akku Vision, everything comes from a single source, in manufacturing quality, with the safety offered and an after-sales service that is second to none. We have the impression that Made in Germany is worth something again. The number of enquiries and projects we have in the pipeline speak for themselves.
Can you already reveal which bicycle manufacturers will soon be equipping their bikes with Akku Vision batteries via the Bespoke Battery Concept?
Unfortunately, I’m not allowed to name the manufacturers yet. What is certain is that delivery of the Bespoke Battery Concept to the first customers will begin in autumn 2023. Everyone can be excited. Because we will then be able to come up with a real innovation.
The Intube battery with which Akku Vision is launching its Bespoke Battery Concept is said to have an astonishing 900 watt hours.
You are keeping us on tenterhooks. Which battery will be installed in the corresponding models?
Unfortunately, I have to put you off at this point as well. For the moment, the details remain a secret. After all, we are talking about a real innovation that does not yet exist on the market! Basically, we want to start with a rechargeable battery. Different versions will be available. The plan is, of course, to follow the first battery with others.
Thank you very much for the interview, Mr Maiberger.
Pictures: Akku Vision GmbH
