Bosch eBike Systems off to a flying start in Japan

Stuttgart/Reutlingen – Bosch eBike Systems is starting its market launch in Japan at the Tokyo Motor Show in October 2017. Thus, the international market leader for eBike drive systems in the premium segment will be expanding its presence in the Asia-Pacific region, following its entry into the Australian and New Zealand markets. The primary focus in Japan will be on a target group with a particular interest in lifestyle and technology. To ensure optimal support at local level, Bosch is collaborating with its service partner Intertec Inc., a company with many years' expertise on the Japanese bike market.

eBikes gaining ground strongly in Japan

Pedelecs have been growing in popularity in Japan for some years now. A significant increase in eBike sales was noticeable in 2011 as a consequence of the tsunami catastrophe. With much of the local transport infrastructure around Tokyo destroyed, many city commuters discovered that the eBike is an ideal alternative. The main focus of the market launch will be on this type of use: with the Active Line Plus product line, showcased for Model Year 2018, the Bosch eBike Systems offering is directed on the one hand mainly at convenience-conscious commuters from suburban and rural regions and on the other hand at leisure-time eBikers who make regular cycle tours and are keen to have a harmonious, agile drive system. The most important factors for eBikers are the design and performance of high-quality drive units.

Active Line Plus: an ideal drive system for the Japanese market

As Fouad Bennini, Head of the Asia Pacific Business Unit, explains: "Japan is a highly developed market with a well-established pedelec sector. If bike manufacturers integrate Active Line Plus drive units into their fashionable and unusual designs, this will make a huge impact in Japan. They will also be opening up new target groups." Bosch eBike Systems' innovative strength will play a major role in the product launch. With Active Line Plus, Bosch is meeting the specific requirements and legal formalities of the Japanese eBike market.

Additional offerings for eBikers

Parallel to the launch in Japan, local services are being expanded. From October 2017 onwards, Bosch's Japanese service partner Intertec Inc. will be providing service which is optimised to suit specialist retailers. This includes a hotline for dealers, the efficient processing of warranty claims and a full-scale supply of spare parts. There are also plans for training sessions with local Bosch experts in order to familiarise retailers with the latest Bosch eBike Systems products and technologies as effectively as possible. The first training sessions will take place during customers' inhouse trade shows from August 2017 onwards. At the beginning of 2018 an intensive training programme for retailers will be available in selected cities.