Simon Wang, CEO of Taitra – the event's organiser – underlined these key topics during the press conference 'E-bikes and Sustainability'. Wang voiced the importance of Taiwan's role in the ever-changing landscape of transportation, highlighting the need for electrification as the driving force. He outlined the exponential growth of Taiwan's e-bike export value, which during recent years has repeatedly met the same level as traditional bicycles, showcasing Taiwan's adaptability and innovative excellence.
The visit along Taiwan's west coast, a hub for industries that manufacture semiconductors, electronics and plastics, further reinforced the island's position as a key contributor to the future of intelligent, electric mobility.
Wang emphasised Taiwan's dedication to reducing its carbon footprint and stated that sustainability is an essential aspect of responsible business practices. He highlighted the Taiwanese bicycle industry's significant progress in sustainable manufacturing, design innovations, and the research and development of new materials.
Today’s company visit provided a first-hand look at the integration of recycled and eco-conscious materials, including plastics, ocean-salvaged waste, and bio and carbon fibres. The demonstrations stressed the innovative capabilities of Taiwanese businesses, solidifying their status as leaders in the global supply chain.
Robert Wu, Chairman of the Taiwan Bicycle Association (TBA) said: "The Taiwan bicycle industry plays a hugely important role in providing the world with a premium supply chain. We have a very hard-working and smart bicycle industry which contributes many innovative products on a daily basis. In August 2023, our average export price was FOB USD$1000 per bike and USD$1700 per e-bike. That’s a growth of almost 100 times compared with 50 years ago. 2023 has been a very difficult year for the worldwide bicycle industry, but hard times are also a good time to prepare exciting future products and tech from across the Taiwan Bicycle Industry."
The Taiwan bicycle industry plays a hugely important role in providing the world with a premium supply chain.”
Young Liu, Chairman of Bicycling Alliance for Sustainability (BAS) highlighted their future goals, saying: "Firstly, our members are required to complete a Carbon Footprint Verification within two years. Up to now, approximately 75% of the members have achieved this goal within just nine months. Secondly, our members are committed to reducing carbon emissions by 3% annually, aiming to achieve a 25% reduction in carbon emissions per bicycle by 2030. That’s the equivalent of about 40 kilograms of carbon emission reduction per bicycle. Finally, we will promote individual carbon credit passports to encourage more people worldwide to ride bicycles."
Chairman Liu also mentioned that next year's Taipei Cycle will invite important international bicycle associations from across Europe and the United States to come to Taiwan to promote sustainability.
Simon Wang stated that e-bikes and sustainability are the core topics for this year's press conference and company visits. TAITRA confirmed that the upcoming Taipei Cycle 2024 has surpassed the scale of its pre-pandemic edition, attracting a diverse array of exhibitors from across the globe.
The 2024 event will boast over 900 exhibitors representing 30 countries, with a staggering 3,400 booths. Notably, the 4th floor of TaiNEX Hall 2 will be dedicated solely to the display of e-bikes and e-mobility supply chain products, complemented by an exciting e-bike demo track for test rides.
Taipei Cycle 2024 is scheduled to take place from March 6 to March 9 2024 at TaiNEX Hall 1 and Hall 2, marking a significant milestone in the industry's journey towards electrification and sustainability.
This article is sponsored by the Taiwan External Trade Development Council.
