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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 Massive Concept On A Powerful Street
Podbike got down to change how individuals get round cities. Its flagship product, the Frikar, was half e-bike, half automotive: a weather-protected, pedal-assisted electrical car with 4 wheels, designed to supply the consolation of a small automotive whereas staying inside bike lane laws in Europe.
The thought caught the eye of micromobility fanatics throughout the continent. With rising considerations 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 arduous realities.
What Went Flawed?
Regardless of robust early curiosity and a rising neighborhood 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 on LinkedIn, CEO 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 neighborhood — who lifted us larger than we ever imagined.
“To these of you who rooted for us, shared our imaginative and prescient, or despatched us a message of encouragement alongside the way in which: thanks. You’ve been a part of one thing uncommon and courageous. Regardless that we didn’t attain the end line, we’ll at all times be pleased with the experience 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 get better their investments. Podbike’s personal phrases and situations 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 completely new. Designing, manufacturing, and scaling a fancy 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 probably linger. The Frikar sparked actual dialog about sustainable transport, and its distinctive method may encourage future designs within the micromobility area. For now, the crew has signed off, encouraging anybody with questions to succeed in out by way of electronic mail at whats [email protected].
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