Australian ebike business pedaling ‘green’ change across Government
The electric bike (ebike) industry is one of the fastest growing sectors across the world. Navigant Research predicts global ebike sales will increase from 2016’s sales figures of $15.7 billion to $24.3 billion in 2025.
According to John Zanol, owner and founder of one of Australia’s leading ebike businesses, Melbourne based, Dolomiti Electric Bicycles, “ebikes are becoming extremely popular in Australia because people are starting to appreciate the convenience, affordability and green footprint of electric bikes”.
“Ebike designs and technology have really progressed over the last few years. In fact, they have become so advanced and ergonomic, that they are now the ‘must have’ item for many homes and technology lovers. They are fast becoming the Tesla of bikes,” John added.
“Since establishing Dolomiti in Australia in 2011, our sales have almost doubled every year.
“The increased use of ebikes is also being driven by Government and corporates. We sell ebikes to the Melbourne City Council and they are being used the council to undertake core business which they have traditionally undertaken in cars.
“They can now do more work and make more visits on ebikes because they are not stuck in traffic. Ebikes are driving efficiencies and service improvements across a broad range of service areas. They are also cheaper to run and maintain than cars.
“Posties across the country are now delivering mail on ebikes instead of motorbikes. The increased take up of ebikes by Government and corporates is helping to normalise and support the use of ebikes.
“Many corporates and businesses are doing away with cars and developing and maintaining fleets of ebikes.
“Ebikes are the most affordable way to travel, thanks to significant advancements in technology and battery storage.
“In fact, the electric motors on our ebikes are so small and well integrated, it is almost impossible to tell the difference between an ebike and a standard bike frame. The motors are very quiet, you can hardly hear them.
“More and more people are getting around on ebikes. It is very difficult to tell the difference between an ebike and a non motorised bike. They are so comfortable to ride and easy to operate. You can easily adjust the powered assistance while pedaling.
“Ebikes are ideal for local travel, getting to and from work, recreation on the weekends and general transport – and not only are they affordable, they are also environmentally friendly.”
An Italian born professional golfer with a passion for all things sport and recreation, John spotted the innovative ebikes while travelling through Europe in 2010 and decided to bring them back to Melbourne to introduce them to the Australian marketplace. The ebikes proved so popular, John opened Dolomiti in 2011 and starting importing the ebikes from Europe.
All of Dolomiti’s ebikes travel up to 25 kilometres per hour under powered assistance and can travel up to 200 kilometres in distance before needing to be charged. Ebikes are also highly cost-effective as it only costs around 10 cents to fully charge them, compared to the average cost to fill a car with a full tank of fuel.
“Ebikes are no longer just for those who need powered assistance, they are ideal for every type of rider and a broad range of uses,” John added.
“Riding an ebike can save you a heck of a lot of money, particularly if you ride it regularly, for example to work and back and you don’t have any parking costs either.
“Not only are they a great way to stay active and have fun, but they are also eco-friendly with some of the best European technologies.
“Ebikes are battery powered through the use of the pedals. The cyclist is then able to control the level of assistance the bike gives them and that’s why they are adaptable to any lifestyle.
“Most of the bikes we stock only cost 10 cents to charge which will take a cyclist for at least 200 kilometers. When you compare this to the current petrol costs, you are saving a lot of money.”
Ebikes can be ridden anywhere a normal bicycle can go and they can travel up to 25 kilometres per hour. Dolomiti stocks ebikes that travel over different terrains, with many different power options.
“There is no other mode of transport with such eco-friendly traits that can be so adaptable for riders,” John added. My hope is to see ebikes everywhere across Australia.
“With Government and business leading the way in Australia, I am sure we will continue to see more and more Aussies on ebikes. Already many of our customers are professionals and families wanting to replace their second car with an ebike.
Daily Bulletin
