Also, a Rivian Spinoff, Redefines Electric Biking with Innovative Design
Experience the Future of Urban Mobility: Also's TM-B Electric Bike
Rethinking Personal Transportation: The Case for Electric Bikes
While electric cars frequently dominate discussions about future mobility, electric bicycles present a compelling, arguably superior, alternative for reducing urban pollution and congestion. These nimble machines are already experiencing a global surge in popularity, but Also, a startup with deep roots in Rivian's engineering philosophy, seeks to elevate the e-bike experience to unprecedented levels. Their objective is to apply the same pioneering, technology-driven approach that brands like Tesla and Rivian brought to automobiles, now to the realm of smaller electric vehicles, promising widespread adoption through enhanced design and functionality.
Introducing the Also TM-B: A Glimpse into its Core Offerings
The TM-B electric bicycle is the culmination of four years of dedicated development, initially as a covert project within Rivian and subsequently as an independent entity. Available for pre-order now, the bike is set to launch next year in three distinct variants. The Launch Edition, priced at $4,500, will be the first to hit the market in spring 2026. A Performance model, sharing the same mechanical specifications but with subtle aesthetic differences, will follow. Later in the year, a Base model will be released for under $4,000, offering a smaller battery and slightly less power. True to its Rivian heritage, future upgrades, such as performance enhancements, will be accessible via software downloads for owners who opt for the larger battery pack.
Ingenious Features That Set the Also E-Bike Apart
Also's commitment to ground-up design is evident throughout the TM-B. Its unconventional frame not only distinguishes it visually but also introduces groundbreaking capabilities to the electric two-wheeler market. Similar to Rivian vehicles, the bike activates as its owner, or their smartphone, approaches. A responsive five-inch circular touchscreen on the stem serves as the control hub, providing access to ride modes, settings, a media player, and navigation. This intuitive interface surpasses many car infotainment systems in its seamless operation. The navigation system intelligently adjusts ETA and estimated range based on the selected pedal-assist level. All software and electrical components are proprietary, allowing Also to implement real-time adjustments and over-the-air updates, such as the upcoming self-canceling turn signals.
Hardware Innovation and Modularity: The Top Frame Concept
The TM-B's hardware is equally impressive, highlighted by its innovative "top frame" component. This modular design allows riders to easily swap out the seat post assembly with the push of a button, instantly transforming the bike. At launch, options include a cargo rack and an extended moped-style seat, alongside the standard configuration. This means riders can convert their TM-B into a cargo bike or a child carrier in mere seconds, without requiring any tools. This electronic locking mechanism simplifies the decision-making process for users, eliminating the need to choose a specific bike for a particular function. Furthermore, the removable battery, which utilizes the same cells as Rivian's R1S and R1T, doubles as a portable power bank, complete with USB-C ports for charging devices at wall-outlet speeds. Also's vision also extends to a smart helmet, equipped with integrated speakers, a noise-canceling microphone, and front and rear lighting, available for purchase independently of the bike.
A Smooth and Powerful Ride: Experiencing the Also E-Bike
Also's custom-engineered motor, unlike traditional mid-drive units, boasts a futuristic aesthetic, especially with the transparent covers on the Performance and Launch models. Its functionality is equally unique, delivering an impressive 180 Newton-meters of torque, surpassing all other e-bike motors on the market. The Performance model offers a 10x pedal assistance, also a class-leading feature. Even the Base model provides a 5x pedal assistance, outperforming many competitors. During a test ride, the bike's acceleration and climbing capabilities were remarkable; reaching 28 mph on a steep incline without effort underscored its power. The TM-B also features an innovative pedal-by-wire system, where there's no mechanical link between the pedals and the rear wheel. Instead, sensors register pedaling effort, and motors translate this into propulsion, creating a sensation akin to an automatic continuously variable gearbox. This sophisticated system allows for a smooth, gearless ride, though a manual mode can simulate traditional shifting. The motor and battery are integrated into a magnesium casting, forming the structural core of the bike, to which other components attach. Additionally, the bike incorporates regenerative braking, a feature common in electric cars, which extends its range by approximately 25%. The Performance and Launch models, with their larger battery packs, offer a range of 25-100 miles, depending on usage.
The Road Ahead: Also's Vision for Micro-mobility
Unlike other automakers that merely rebrand existing e-bikes, Rivian and Also have developed a meticulously engineered product with a clear purpose. This is just the beginning; Also envisions its software, electronics, cloud infrastructure, and hardware as a versatile platform, much like the "skateboards" used by EV manufacturers to underpin various models. The next offering is the TM-Q quad, with a delivery van-style version slated for release next year for commercial uses, such as Amazon package delivery. A more compact version with a large cargo bin will also be available for personal use, targeting individuals who use golf carts or need to transport multiple children without the balancing challenges of a heavy cargo bike. With over half of all vehicle trips in the U.S. being under six miles, electric bikes like the TM-B offer a viable and enjoyable alternative to cars. Also believes that such well-designed and satisfying products, potentially followed by more affordable models, can significantly accelerate the shift towards sustainable micro-mobility solutions.