EICMA 2021 Milan: Niu rolls out big with e-scooters of all classes
The Chinese scooter manufacturer NIU presented its new portfolio of models MQi GT EVO, RQi, NQi GTS, YQi, BQi, and KQi at the EICMA in Milan. The MQi GT EVO: The next milestone of the NIU M series. The 2022 MQi GT EVO is the latest development in the NIU M-Series and has been completely redesigned inside and out. The e-moped accelerates to over 100 km/h and offers a riding experience that is far superior to that of a comparable gasoline scooter. Riders feel the incredible torque released by NIU's most powerful motor to date. The 5kW hub motor is powered by two removable 72V 26Ah batteries. The MQi GT EVO will be available in four versions, starting at €4,999, including 3 years of connectivity and app services.
The NIU RQi is seen as an electric motorcycle for the city. First introduced at CES 2020 in Las Vegas, the scooter is expected to cost €6,999 (RRP) and uses a 5kW chain motor in the middle of the vehicle and two removable 72V 36Ah batteries to reach over 110 km/h. With the newly developed "Launch Mode," riders are supposed to "catapult" past slow-moving traffic at both low and high speeds.
“We offer an insane amount of torque without compromising on range. Launch Mode is our answer for normal commuter traffic,” explains Token Hu.
The removable batteries of the RQi take advantage of the fast charger, which can be plugged into any household outlet and allows a full charge in less than four hours. The RQi also features a TFT color display and NIU's brand-new front and rear cameras, which provide additional safety in unexpected moments. The NQi GTS also receives a performance upgrade through the newly developed NIU V-MOTOR, which accelerates the scooter to over 80 km/h. Despite more power, it maintains the range of 70 km on a single charge. Additionally, there is a TFT color display, similar to the MQi GT EVO and RQi. The price is €3,999 (MSRP).
Further Definition: More Fun with Scooters and E-Bikes
For the first time, the manufacturer EICMA will also present micro-mobility solutions in the form of electric scooters and e-bikes. In previous years, these vehicle types had been reserved for other technology events.
"We believe that EICMA is the world's most important event for the introduction of urban mobility vehicles, and we are looking forward to showcasing not only our latest electric mopeds but also our brand-new electric scooters and e-bikes," says Yan Li, CEO of NIU Technologies.
Earlier this year, the manufacturer launched its first electric kick-scooter, the KQi3, which became the most funded kick-scooter on Indiegogo and will be available in retail in Europe and the United States this spring. The KQi2 is the latest member of the electric scooter family – with a top speed of 25 km/h and app connectivity, the KQi2 will be offered in Europe for €499.
"We are convinced that it will quickly become Europe's most popular commuter vehicle for urban mobility," says Yan Li, CEO.
In addition to the pro model, a high-performance version will also be launched, the KQi3 MAX, with a top speed of 35 km/h, although the permissible top speed will be regulated by the legal requirements of each country. The price will be announced at the beginning of 2022. With the powerful commuter e-bike BQi, which is also expected to come to Germany in 2022, the Chinese manufacturers are responding to the growing demand for electric bicycles. They have used their know-how to develop the "perfect urban e-bike for under €1,500," the manufacturer advertises. A 250-W Bafang motor in conjunction with a single-speed transmission provides pedal assistance. The app offers common safety features, and two removable batteries ensure a range of over 100 km on a single charge and a top speed of 25 km/h.
Hybrid Motorcycle Before Launch
As a hybrid motorcycle, the YQi will also be presented as a concept vehicle to convince those who are still reluctant to switch to a completely electric motorcycle.
"We believe that we can convince the die-hard fans of gasoline motorcycles that the future lies in electric mobility. The YQi is a motorcycle that we believe can help them bridge the gap," explains co-founder Token Hu.
The YQi is the provider's first hybrid concept, utilizing the combined power of a liquid-cooled 150cc engine and a centrally located 2400-W electric motor to achieve top speeds and acceleration times otherwise only found in motorcycles with over 250 cc, as promised.
Availability of All Introduced Models in Europe
From March 1st, the MQi GT EVO, the NQI GTS, and the KQi2 will be available in stores. The RQi and BQi will be available for purchase from July 1, 2022. The market launch of the YQi is planned for the first half of 2023. All NIU scooters and motorcycles will come with a prepaid Vodafone SIM card, ensuring round-the-clock connectivity to the app. The app offers users real-time information such as GPS, anti-theft protection, remote monitoring, scooter diagnostics, help-center functions, and over-the-air updates for the vehicles.
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