Over the past ten years, France has shown an uninterrupted growth of e-bike sales reaching 854 417 units in 2022. “This already represents 28 percent of the total bike market and there is more to come,” explains Mathys. It’s the cargo bike market that is conquering the French street scene. “More and more families, F&B and delivery companies choose cargo bikes to cover short distances in city centers.”
In the overall e-bike market we also see high-end brands upgrading the e-bike experience with smooth designs and enhanced features: “Following the shift to electrification, connectivity has become the prevailing norm. These connectivity solutions boost safety, comfort, and offer valuable insights into the usage of connected e-bikes,” mentions Mathys.
Made in France
The French government is also investing over 2 billion euros to get a proper bike infrastructure in place towards 2027. This also encourages many players in the industry to get a piece of the growing pie. Mathys: "In our market, the 'Made in France' label continues to resonate strongly with consumers when they consider purchasing an e-bike.”
The clear trend for relocation of e-bike production to France is therefore well received by the market. Companies like Group Rebirth, Ultima Mobility and Yamaha with its PWS2 motor are leading the way. As in other European markets, we also see French automotive groups like Valeo, Bontaz, Peugeot, Mini Cooper - with the french startup Angell Mobility - stepping into the e-bike market.
Mastering the supply chain
With production increasingly taking place in France itself, many French e-bike manufacturers can now exercise greater control over the complete supply chain. From its European warehouse in Belgium with dedicated stock management services, A&C Solutions offers French customers a continuous supply of (customised) Higo connectors. “We aim to provide the right connector solution at the right moment," Mathys says. "When all of this comes together and the customer's new e-bike design comes to life, we consider our mission fulfilled."
Increased customisation in E-bike connectors
The trend for higher-end e-(cargo) bike designs often implies more customisation in e-bike connector solutions. “That’s where A&C Solutions and Higo step in”, continues Mathys. It’s A&C Solutions’ core business to relieve manufacturers by managing e-bike connector projects from the start-up of the design to the in-house manufacturing of fully customised Higo cable harnesses.
“Many of these customised projects need continuous follow-up and extensive communication," Mathys explains. "That’s why our French customers appreciate a local contact person with whom they can easily speak in their own language. It makes it easier for both of us to build trustworthy partnerships.”
Partnership with VUF bikes in France
An example of such a partnership is VUF Bikes. Their liaison with A&C Solutions has proven to be a synergistic collaboration, marked by the successful integration of Higo connectors into VUF’s innovative cargo bikes. VUF General Manager Anthony Chenut: "Through our collaboration with A&C Solutions, we've elevated our cargo bike models with a tailormade harness and Higo connectors. This state-of-the-art technology ensures a smooth and advanced riding experience for all of our users."
This article is sponsored by A&C Solutions.
