Join CleanTechnica’s Weekly Substack for Zach and Scott’s in-depth analyses and high level summariesjoin our daily newsletterand/or follow us on Google News!
Podbike, the Norwegian startup recognized for its futuristic 4-wheeled velomobile/e-bike, the Frikar, has formally filed for chapter, bringing an finish to a daring try at reimagining city mobility.
A Huge Thought On A Powerful Highway
Podbike got down to change how folks get round cities. Its flagship product, The Frikarwas half e-bike, half automotive: a weather-protected, pedal-assisted electrical automobile with 4 wheels, designed to supply the consolation of a small automotive whereas staying inside bike lane rules in Europe.
The thought caught the attention of micromobility fanatics throughout the continent. With rising issues over city congestion, local weather change, and automotive dependency, the Frikar appeared like a glimpse right into a cleaner, smarter transportation future. However even good concepts face exhausting realities.
What Went Mistaken?
Regardless of sturdy early curiosity and a rising group of supporters, Podbike struggled to maintain its enterprise afloat. Rising manufacturing prices, persistent provide chain points, and a sluggish financial local weather all took their toll.
The corporate tried to lift new funding however couldn’t shut the hole. In a heartfelt farewell is LinkedInCEO Bernt Rosli thanked clients, buyers, and followers, writing:
“We’re devastated! For our clients ready patiently. For our companions and suppliers. And for you — our group — who lifted us greater than we ever imagined.
“To those of you who rooted for us, shared our vision, or sent us a message of encouragement along the way: thank you. You’ve been part of something rare and brave. Even though we didn’t reach the finish line, we’ll always be proud of the ride we shared.”
A Blow To Supporters & Clients
Podbike had began delivering Frikar autos in Norway in early 2023 and expanded into Germany, Switzerland, Belgium, and Austria in 2024. Many purchasers positioned pre-orders and deposits, hoping to be among the many first to personal a Frikar.
Now, with the corporate in chapter, some are left questioning in the event that they’ll recuperate their investments. Podbike’s own terms and conditions warned that refunds is probably not attainable within the case of insolvency.
A Powerful Lesson For Micromobility Startups
The shutdown highlights simply how troublesome it’s for hardware-focused micromobility startups to outlive, particularly after they’re introducing one thing fully new. Designing, manufacturing, and scaling a posh product just like the Frikar requires severe capital and operational experience.
Podbike had the imaginative and prescient. However in the long run, the monetary runway wasn’t lengthy sufficient.
What’s Subsequent?
Podbike’s story might have ended, however its affect will doubtless linger. The Frikar sparked actual dialog about sustainable transport, and its distinctive method may encourage future designs within the micromobility house. For now, the staff has signed off, encouraging anybody with questions to succeed in out through electronic mail at hiya@podbike.com.
Whether or not you’ve solar energy or not, please full our latest solar power survey.
Have a tip for CleanTechnica? Wish to promote? Wish to recommend a visitor for our CleanTech Speak podcast? Contact us here.
Join our each day e-newsletter for 15 new cleantech stories a day. Or join our weekly one on top stories of the week if each day is simply too frequent.
CleanTechnica makes use of affiliate hyperlinks. See our coverage here.
CleanTechnica’s Comment Policy
