Buying An Electric Bike In China: A Guide

Electric bikes are becoming increasingly popular worldwide, and China is at the forefront of this revolution. China leads the Asia-Pacific e-bike market, with high sales aimed at tackling traffic and vehicle pollution. The affordability of e-bikes in China, priced between CNY 1,500-3,000 (approximately USD 180-360), makes them accessible to a wide range of consumers. The global e-bike market is projected to be worth $21.7 billion by 2027, and Chinese manufacturers are known for their cost-effective and diverse range of products. In this guide, we will explore the key considerations for buying an electric bike in China, including market insights, quality compliance, supplier selection, and logistics.

Electric bike manufacturers in China

China is the dominant player in the electric bike market, producing over 60% of e-bikes globally. This is due to their manufacturing experience, access to low-cost components, and the Chinese government's policies to promote e-bikes to reduce air pollution and traffic congestion in cities.

When looking for an electric bike manufacturer in China, it is important to consider factors such as experience, certifications, customer reviews, and product quality. It is also crucial to ensure that the manufacturer can provide the necessary documentation, such as test reports and certificates of compliance, to ensure that the product meets safety standards, especially if importing to the United States, Europe, or Australia, where specific regulations apply.

• Yadea Technology Group: Based in Hangzhou, China, Yadea has a production capacity of over 3 million units per year and exports to over 80 countries worldwide. They manufacture a wide range of electric bikes, including city, mountain, and folding bikes.
• Aima Technology: With a production capacity of over 1 million units per year, Aima exports to over 50 countries, including Europe, North America, and South America. They offer a range of electric bikes, such as city, mountain, and folding bikes.
• Sunra Electric Vehicle: Sunra, based in Changzhou, has been in business since 2010 and produces over 1 million units per year. They export to more than 50 countries across Europe, North America, and South America, offering a variety of electric bikes, including city, mountain, and folding options.
• BYVIN Electric Vehicle: BYVIN, based in China, has been in the industry for over a decade and is known for its innovative designs and high-quality construction. They offer a range of models, such as folding, mountain, and city bikes, and provide additional services like installation, maintenance, and customer support.
• Xiaomi: Xiaomi has funded a range of inexpensive e-bikes, including the $261 Himo V1, through its crowdfunding platform, YouPin.
• Shandong Fulong Electric Vehicle Co., Ltd.
• HUIZHOU JOJOY SEIKO CO., LTD.
• Wenling Shellmax Equipment Manufacturing Co., Ltd.

When choosing an electric bike manufacturer in China, it is essential to conduct thorough research, request product samples, and consider visiting the manufacturing facilities to ensure they meet your expectations and requirements.

Compliance and safety standards

China is the global leader in e-bikes, with an estimated 350 million on the country's roads. As such, the Chinese government has implemented several national safety standards to ensure the electrical and fire safety of e-bikes and their rechargeable batteries. These standards are mandatory for importers, manufacturers, distributors, and related parties.

One such standard is the "Safety Technical Specification for Lithium-ion Batteries Used in Electric Bicycles." This standard addresses 22 specific aspects of battery design and manufacturing, including over-charging, external short circuits, and thermal abuse. It is expected that this standard will significantly impact e-bike fire safety, a growing concern in China and other countries.

Another standard, titled "GB 42296-2022, Safety Technical Requirements of Charger for Electric Bicycles," will take effect on July 1, 2023. This standard will ensure the safety of electrical bicycles and their rechargeable battery systems. Additionally, a new mandatory standard, "Safety Technical Specification of Lithium-ion Battery for Electric Bicycle," is under development and is expected to be completed by the end of 2023.

When purchasing an electric bike in China, it is essential to ensure that the supplier can provide the necessary compliance documentation. This includes test reports and certificates of compliance for the specific charger model and battery type. Suppliers who actively export e-bikes to markets in the US, Europe, or Australia are more likely to meet these compliance standards.

To further enhance the safety of e-bike riders in China, initiatives such as the "Regulations of Zhejiang Province on the Administration of Electric Bicycles" have been implemented. These regulations aim to improve safety measures through education, infrastructure development, and strengthened law enforcement.

Cost and quality

China is known for its inexpensive electric bikes, with prices ranging from $261 to $420. However, it's important to consider the cost of shipping, which can be significant when factored into the total price. When it comes to quality, there are a few concerns about electric bikes manufactured in China. While some believe that production quality control standards are lacking, others argue that Chinese manufacturers are capable of producing high-quality electric bikes that meet international safety standards. It's recommended to look for suppliers who can provide documentation and compliance certificates for the specific model you're purchasing.

When assessing electric bike suppliers in China, it's advisable to consider factors such as experience, certifications, customer reviews, and product quality. Visiting the supplier's manufacturing facility can provide valuable insights into their production process and quality control measures. Additionally, partnering with well-known and trusted manufacturers can offer assurance regarding reliability and quality.

In terms of product specifications, it's important to consider factors such as the motor, battery, tires, brakes, and handlebar height. The configuration of these components contributes to the overall quality and performance of the electric bike. For example, renowned Chinese motor manufacturers like Bafang produce high-capacity motors that enhance the riding experience.

While electric bikes in China offer a range of affordable options, it's crucial to carefully evaluate the quality and safety of the product. This includes ensuring compliance with international safety standards, particularly for batteries and chargers, as low-quality options can pose electrical and fire hazards.

Overall, when purchasing an electric bike from China, it's essential to balance cost considerations with quality and safety standards. Conduct thorough research, evaluate product specifications, and prioritize reputable suppliers to ensure a positive and safe riding experience.

Finding a supplier

When it comes to finding a supplier for electric bikes in China, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, it's important to prioritize quality and reliability. While you may be tempted to opt for the cheapest option, as seen in the example of a buyer who sourced a supplier that offered a similar product for 10% less, the lower price may not always be worth it in the long run. In that instance, the buyer ended up losing a lot of money due to the supplier's disorganization and subpar workshop conditions.

To ensure quality, look for suppliers with experience, certifications, positive customer reviews, and, most importantly, excellent product quality. Request product samples or, if possible, visit the supplier's manufacturing facility to inspect their production process. This will give you a firsthand look at their operations and help you make an informed decision.

When assessing suppliers, it's advisable to focus on medium to large-scale manufacturers rather than small workshops. Larger manufacturers are more likely to have the resources and capabilities to manage a complex supply chain for electric bikes, which typically consist of numerous components sourced from various subcontractors.

In terms of location, Zhejiang province is a hub for electric bike suppliers in China. Cities like Ningbo, Shanghai, and Tianjin are known for hosting several reputable manufacturers. For instance, Ningbo Lvkang Vehicle Co., Ltd., based in Ningbo, specializes in designing and producing high-quality electric bicycles for personal and commercial use. They have a team of experienced engineers and designers committed to innovation and sustainability.

Other notable suppliers include Qingdao Pusen Technology Co., Ltd., Glory (Shenzhen) Technology Co., Ltd., and QUICKER (Tianjin) Sports Equipment Co., Ltd. Each of these companies has unique strengths and capabilities, so be sure to research them thoroughly before making your decision.

Additionally, consider using online platforms like Made-in-China.com and ChinaImportal.com, which provide directories of reliable Chinese suppliers and manufacturers. These platforms can be excellent resources for finding suppliers that meet your specific needs and requirements.

Lastly, when dealing with any potential supplier, it's crucial to exercise due diligence. Verify the legitimacy of the business, its production capabilities, and other essential aspects before finalizing any deals. This will help protect your investment and ensure a smooth partnership.

Importing to the EU or US

Electric bikes are becoming increasingly popular as a means of transport, with China being the largest e-bike market. The main manufacturing areas of electric bikes in China are Tianjin City and Jiangsu Province. The affordability of e-bikes in China, priced between CNY 1,500-3,000 (approximately USD 180-360), makes them accessible to a wide range of consumers.

If you are planning to import electric bikes from China to the European Union, there are several requirements that must be met. Firstly, ensure that the manufacturer has carried out the conformity assessment, set up the technical file, issued the EU declaration of conformity, and affixed the CE marking to the product. The product must also comply with the Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006, the REACH Regulation, which ensures the protection of human health and the environment, as well as the free movement of substances. Import tariffs apply to all goods imported into the European Union, and the basic duty rate for electric bicycles is 6%. However, it is important to note that anti-dumping duties as high as 79% have been imposed on some Chinese e-bike producers to protect European businesses from subsidized Chinese producers. These measures will expire on January 19, 2024.

When importing electric bikes to the United States, it is important to note that definitions and classifications of electric bicycles vary from state to state. Low-speed electric bicycles in the US are classified as consumer products and fall under the CPSC. The importer is responsible for ensuring that the imported products meet all requirements and comply with the target market's regulations.

To ensure compliance and quality, regular quality checks and inspections are essential when importing e-bikes from China. This includes pre-shipment inspections, container loading supervision, and product testing to identify issues such as poor battery performance, insulation problems, and misalignment in parts. Additionally, it is crucial to verify the Chinese supplier and ensure that the raw materials used in the supply chain conform to regulations.

Frequently asked questions