The end of the year is traditionally a time for reflection, so we've gone back through 12 months of new ebike launches, tech developments and e-mobility highlights to compile our pick of 2024's top ebike innovations.
As with last year's selection, we've elected not to focus on models that have shifted the most units in a very healthy marketplace, or coverage that's attracted the most eyes. Instead we've chosen standout tech or novel ideas that could make a difference to those who want motor assistance at the pedal.
A number of motor advances caught our eye in 2024, along with a cargo bike with landing gear, a solar-powered charging station for up to 12 ebikes at once and a laid-back PAS motorhome – which isn't not strictly an ebike but is certainly impressive.
Our 2024 ebike tech roundup is presented in no particular order. Enough preamble, let's dive in.
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![The one-of-a-kind Blue Steel – which we realize is technically not an ebike]()
If there had been ebikes in Tron, it's possible that they would have looked something like Blue Steel. The futuristic creation boasts hubless wheels, full suspension and a single-sided front swingarm, although it has the soul of an old Schwinn. -
![At just 2.5 kg, the ultra-compact ZF CentriX motor fits neatly in the bike frame, but its 600 watts and 90 Nm of torque are sure to be felt]()
ZF is best known as an auto tech and supply company, but it's ready to grow its name in ebikes. Its new 48V drive is centered around one of the most compact, inconspicuous electric motors in the bike game and still boasts serious power and torque. -
!["With dual-battery capability and an efficient Bosch motor, Orox has a range of more than 300 km, opening the door to epic trips to rarely traveled places"]()
Combining aspects of a mountain bike, trekking bike and cargo bike, Tern has designed an all-weather, all-terrain pedal-assist gear hauler called the Orox that taps into Bosch power and is dual-battery ready for extended trips into the wild. -
![Renders at the moment, but Beam Global's solar-powered ebike station is based on the company's EV Arc model, which has already rolled out in the thousands across the US]()
Though ebike battery fires are relatively rare, they can cause serious damage to property and riders alike. Beam Global is looking to take charging outdoors with a 12-ebike, grid-independent charging hub that's powered by solar and batteries. -
![The Safe Shield Battery has been "designed from the ground up to advance the safety of ebike batteries"]()
Rad Power Bikes already ensures that all of its models meet UL safety standards, but has now gone further with the introduction of the Safe Shield Battery, which incorporates technology designed to protect against overheating. -
![A new breed of all-electric RV, the Grounded T1 is a tractor-trailer micro-camper with electric trike at the helm]()
We expect the occasional bicycle RV launch, but Grounded has released something we weren't expecting at all. Its T1 micro-camper is a live-in e-trike-powered tractor-trailer with standing height interior, panoramic windows, and space for two. -
![Stabilizing wheels on the underside of the cargo box are deployed automatically when the rider brakes for low-speed travel]()
Cargo ebikes can be a great alternative to the family car when hauling groceries or doing the school run. But they can be a bit wobbly at slow speeds. Startup Tarran is aiming for improved stability with auto-deploying landing gear. -
![The world's first geared CVT, capable of smoothly changing ratios between zero and high gear]()
The efficiency of a tooth-on-tooth geared transmission, with the smoothly variable gear ratios of a CVT – minus the belt friction and capable of going all the way down to a zero ratio without needing a clutch. That's a 'holy grail' level promise! -
![HydroRide Europe AG's HYRYD ebikes use a hydrogen fuel-cell to power the ride, with a compact solar-powered hydrogen generator available for green H2 production potential]()
While most ebikes on the road today will come with a battery pack, some are riding down the hydrogen fuel-cell cycle path. HydroRide not only has fuel-cell ebikes available, but also a compact refill station to top up H2 canisters. -
![The Revolution W is described as "an exhilarating urban, dirt road, mountain and battlefield-ready masterpiece, representing the ultimate adrenaline rush and the fastest factory electric bike ever made"]()
Californian ebike maker Hi-Power Cycles has not only launched a new 80-mph beast, but has also established a brand new Defense Division to get the Revolution W into the hands of military, law enforcement and local government personnel. -
![Exploded view of the 5-speed gearbox developed by Kosmos]()
South Korean startup Kosmos has made its Indiegogo debut with a tech-packed ebike named the Nova7. The PAS commuter features a mid-mount internal gearbox, rear-hub motor with responsive torque sensing, and a low-maintenance belt drive. -
!["The design of the bike is characterized by sleek lines and edges, a lightweight construction, and a high degree of craftsmanship," said Diodra in a press statement. "The seamless integration of components adds to its allure, showcasing both form and function in perfect harmony"]()
Romanian e-mobility startup Diodra is laying claim to making the world's lightest ebike with a bamboo frame. The S3 tips the scales at 15 kg and features an all-in-one hub drive that includes motor and battery. -
![The 2024 Juggernaut FS XD dual-drive fat ebike is described as "the ultimate blend of power, performance and comfort"]()
Back in 2022, Canadian bike maker Biktrix launched a powerful hardtail off-road ebike that featured two drivetrains – pedal power to the right and high-power motor to the left. Now the Juggernaut XD has gone full squish for 2024. -
![Mahle slims the whole XS system down to the essentials, including the controller where the battery mounts and the sensors]()
This week, Mahle launched its lightest electric bike drive series yet. The new XS system shaves over a pound off Mahle's previous lightweight champion while also freeing up more latitude in ebike design. -
![The Owlet One e-scootbike thing sports a 3,000-watt peak hub motor for 180 Nm of torque plus a 60-mile removable battery]()
Finding that many ebike riders prefer to throttle through commutes and urban adventures, LA-based startup Owlet opted to ditch the pedals altogether for its upcoming One model – a high-torque angular beast with attitude.
