Over 200 Million Electric Bikes in China in 2013

People in China rode more than 180 million e-bikes (electric bikes) by the end of last year, up 36 percent since 2010, according to Wood Mackenzie Ltd. Average lead content in a two-wheel e-bike has dropped from about 13 kilograms (29 pounds) in 2010 to 11 kilograms last year, according to the Edinburgh-based researcher. There will be about 33 million electric bikes sold in China in 2013. China will have about 210 million electric bikes at then end of 2013.

Two- and three-wheeler e-bikes account for more than half of all lead consumption in China and about 20 percent of global demand, Huw Roberts, a founder of CHR Metals, said at a Metal Bulletin conference in Istanbul today. The nation used 4.63 million metric tons of refined lead last year, or 44 percent of global demand, Standard Bank Plc says. Batteries are the biggest use for the metal.

The worldwide market for e-bicycles is expected to increase at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.5% between 2012 and 2018, resulting in global sales of more than 47 million vehicles in 2018. China is anticipated to account for 42 million of these e-bicycles that year, giving it 89% of the total world market. The e-bicycle market is anticipated to generate $6.9 billion in worldwide revenue in 2012, growing to $11.9 billion in 2018. If the 10% forecast for 2013 electric bike growth holds then the world e-bike total could be on track to 51 million in 2018.

There are foldable e-bikes with 48volt lithium ion 1000 watt power with a range of 30 miles and a top speed of 36 mph (on a flat road). Maximum e-bike speeds vary by state from about 20 mph to 40 mph and the maximum engine power also varies by state.

What to Look for in a $1000 E-bike

If you go with a no name made in China bike you can get a decent lithium powered electric bike for the $1000-1200 range. The bie is cheap and dependable.

Ebay is loaded with such bikes. People in the US import 50 or so of them and then sell them from their garage. If all you want is a commuter bicycle, buying one of these is well work the risk.