The Ampler Nova electric bike charges via USB-C – and it’s no April Fool’s joke
By ForGeeks Estonian company Ampler has unveiled an e-bike that can be charged with a regular laptop charger. It’s not a concept, but a production model that’s about to go on sale.
The modern electric bike market is literally overloaded with technical innovations, but truly convenient and versatile solutions don’t come along very often. But a new product from Ampler could change the way two-wheelers are charged: the Nova and Nova Pro are the first commercial e-bikes that can be fully charged via USB-C, the same port that has long been used in laptops, smartphones, and tablets.
Universal charging: one outlet for everything
The USB-C connector built into the frame allows you to charge your bike’s battery not only with a proprietary power supply, but also with most standard USB-C PD 3.1-compliant chargers up to 140W. For users, this means one thing: no more heavy and bulky adapters with proprietary connectors.
The Nova packs a 48-volt, 336Wh battery that can be charged from zero to 100 percent in just three hours. That’s an impressive result, especially considering that many similar models take up to five hours or more, and some expensive e-bikes with 300W fast charging only cut the time to two hours. With up to 240W chargers hitting the market, the USB-C standard is becoming a serious alternative to specialized solutions.
Even Ikea and MacBook chargers will do
Ampler has conducted tests to confirm that the new models are compatible with chargers from Ikea and Apple that support the previous USB-C PD 3.0 standard. For those who don’t have a suitable adapter, the company offers its own 140W charger for €80 (about $87).
Curiously, the USB-C port on the Nova series bikes works in both directions – meaning you can even use it to charge a smartphone or other device. However, power is limited to 15W, so you can’t expect fast charging.
Two versions, two approaches
The basic Ampler Nova model will cost €2,990 (about $3,230), while the more advanced Nova Pro will cost €3,490 (about $3,770). Both versions are available in both classic frame and step-through designs, making them suitable for just about any user.
The Ampler Nova Nova is available in both frame and step-through versions, making it suitable for just about any user.
The bikes meet the EU motor power standard of 250 watts, with a top speed limited to 25 km/h. They are essentially redesigned versions of the Stout and Stella models, adapted for wider compatibility with accessories such as locks, child seats and alternative saddles.
They’re also a new version of the Stout and Stella models, adapted for wider compatibility with accessories such as locks, child seats and alternative saddles.
The Nova features 27.5-inch tires, a classic chainring, and a nine-speed transmission with shifter. The Nova Pro features 28-inch wheels, a Gates Carbon belt and a Shimano Deore 10-speed drivetrain built into the rear hub. This version is considered the more reliable and low-maintenance version.
Start of sales is near
Pre-orders for the Ampler Nova and Nova Pro are already open in the UK, EU and Switzerland. The first deliveries will start in June. For after-sales service, the company offers a network of official service centers in Germany and authorized workshops throughout Europe.
