In under two years, Seattle e-bike startup Clean Republic has gone from prototype to delivery of more than 1,000 units. Clean Republic is a garage-based company that markets an e-bike conversion kit for the do-it-yourselfer as well as its Hill Topper electric bike kit -- basically a ready-to-install bike wheel with built-in electric assist motor.
The beauty of the Clean Republic Hill Topper is that it installs in just about 3 minutes and it’s relatively inexpensive. It's available with an 11-pound sealed lead acid (SLA) battery pack that delivers a 10-mile range or a more expensive lithium battery that weighs about 6 pounds and gives a 20-mile range. The Clean Republic Hill Topper is intended to assist, not replace the rider; as anyone who has been to Seattle knows, a little help on the hills can be very handy.
Speedy E-Bike Conversions
Seattle-Based Clean Republic Makes Eco Transportation Easy
Trend Themes
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E-bike Conversion Kits — Clean Republic's success highlights the growing trend of consumers converting traditional bikes to electric with easy-to-install kits.
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DIY Eco Transportation — Clean Republic's garage-based business model and do-it-yourself e-bike conversion kits represent a disruptive innovation opportunity for the eco-friendly transportation industry.
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Lightweight Lithium Batteries — The availability of inexpensive, lightweight lithium batteries for electric bikes creates new opportunities for manufacturers and retailers in the e-bike industry.
Industry Implications
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Bicycle Industry — The e-bike conversion kit market is disrupting the traditional bicycle industry, forcing companies to adapt and potentially offer their own conversion options.
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Green Energy Industry — Clean Republic's e-bike conversion kits and focus on eco transportation highlight growing opportunities in the green energy industry.
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Retail Industry — As the e-bike industry continues to grow, there is potential for retailers to enter the market with e-bike conversion kits and ready-to-ride electric bike options.