VanMoof, the renowned Dutch e-bike manufacturer that recently faced bankruptcy, has been acquired by Lavoie, an upscale electric scooter company. This exciting partnership was announced on Thursday. VanMoof had gained a devoted following due to its expensive and technologically advanced bikes built from proprietary parts. However, the company’s financial problems resulted in production backlogs and lengthy wait times for sales and repairs.
Under the new ownership, riders of VanMoof bikes will still face some uncertainties. Nick Fry, the chairman of Lavoie’s parent company, McLaren Applied, stated that definitive answers to their problems won’t be immediately available. Despite this, Lavoie intends to invest “tens of millions” to address the challenges and rectify the situation.
Improving the availability of parts and repairs is a top priority for Lavoie. VanMoof owners had experienced difficulties in finding suitable bike shops able to fix their bikes. Lavoie seeks to expand the network of mechanics capable of repairing VanMoof bikes and explore opportunities to sell them in retailers beyond the brand’s own shops. Additionally, they aim to address the reliability issues that plagued the bikes, which were often described as “awesome” when they were functioning properly.
Regarding customers who had already purchased VanMoof bikes but had not received them prior to the bankruptcy, it remains uncertain what their options will be. Previous negotiations with the previous owner did not result in an agreement, according to Mr. Fry.
Lavoie, known for its high-end electric scooters, recently launched sales of its luxury scooter series, priced at over $2,000. These scooters utilize Formula 1 technologies developed by Lavoie’s parent company. In contrast, VanMoof, founded in 2009 by Ties and Taco Carlier, experienced significant growth during the pandemic, tripling its sales. The unique design of VanMoof bikes places the battery inside the frame, offering protection against rain and thieves while providing the bikes with their signature streamlined appearance.
The company sold more than 200,000 bikes, each priced at over $2,000, and established stores across Europe, the United States, and Japan. Due to its elegant designs, custom materials, and premium prices, VanMoof was often compared to tech giants like Apple and Tesla within the e-bike industry.
Eliott Wertheimer, Lavoie’s CEO, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating that VanMoof and Lavoie are a perfect fit. Lavoie has also been likened to Apple for its sleek and high-tech engineering in the scooter market. Mr. Wertheimer aims to ensure that VanMoof owners worldwide can continue riding their bikes with confidence.
In conclusion, this acquisition presents an exciting opportunity for VanMoof and its dedicated riders. With Lavoie’s support, the company aims to overcome its challenges, improve services, and enhance the overall experience for VanMoof bike owners.
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