Rivian spin-off Also presents e-bike and e-quads for US and Europe
Also makes its debut with the TM-B e-bike and two quad variants, the Consumer TM-Q and the Commercial TM-Q. The former is a two-wheeled model, while the quads are four-wheeled vehicles approved for cycle paths. The Commercial TM-Q is additionally equipped with a roof and a cargo box. Amazon is reportedly interested in this version, with plans to deploy “thousands” of the e-cargo quads across Europe and the United States, according to the accompanying statement. The ties between Amazon and Rivian, a minority shareholder in Also, are close: Amazon ordered 100,000 large electric delivery vans from Rivian in 2019.
“Our vision is to bring together the latest technology with fun, thoughtful design to create small EVs that inspire people to adopt these more efficient modes,” said Also President Chris Yu. He noted that this launch was years in the making and marks the beginning of a broader platform. Also initially targets the United States and Europe, with plans to expand into Asia and South America at a later stage.
The TM-B e-bike is described as the company’s first flagship model. It features a modular top frame that can be swapped at the push of a button to suit different body sizes and uses – “from utility and commuting to trail and recreation.” At its core is the proprietary DreamRide drive system, featuring software-controlled pedal assistance. “Instead of a direct mechanical connection, DreamRide blends energy regeneration with intuitive motor control to tune every ride to the individual rider’s preference.” The e-bike also integrates a touchscreen display with navigation, media, calls and app support, offers USB-C fast charging up to 240 watts, and includes an automatic locking system.
The launch of the e-bike is accompanied by the introduction of two pedal-assisted quad variants, which share a largely identical drive system. Also plans to release the Commercial TM-Q in 2026, while the other two models will become available later this year.
“Also was created to develop technology and products that challenge existing expectations for what is possible in form factors smaller than a car or truck – I couldn’t be more excited about the potential for ALSO to help drive excitement for new modes of transportation,” said Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe. “We have built a ground-up technology platform that enables us to deliver rich, personalized experiences that get better over time, through the power of software.”
Rivian’s links with Amazon are also contributing to the development of the Commercial TM-Q. The two companies have agreed on a “multi-year collaboration on a customized pedal-assist e-cargo quad.” Their shared goal is to “expand Amazon’s micromobility fleet with thousands of quads across Europe and the US.”
“Amazon already operates more than 70 micromobility hubs in cities across the U.S. and Europe. Micromobility solutions like pedal-assist e-cargo quads allow us to quickly deliver to customers in dense, urban cities, while helping reduce traffic and noise,” said Emily Barber, Director of Amazon’s Global Fleet. “Similar to our Rivian EDV partnership, working with Also provides an opportunity to continue to innovate in this space, building on our delivery logistics experience, paired with their advanced technology, safety, and performance features.”
For its consumer-focused models, Also plans to establish additional partnerships for sales and service. These include Rivian (“later this year, customers will be able to purchase Also vehicles through Rivian online and retail stores across the US”), as well as Velofix (service network) and Chase Slate (financing solutions). Pre-orders and reservations for the TM-B are open now, with deliveries expected to begin in spring 2026.
Also was founded in March following its spin-off from Rivian. The startup simultaneously secured an investment of $105 million from venture capital fund Eclipse Ventures. Rivian founder and CEO RJ Scaringe had long considered adapting the company’s technology for smaller micromobility applications. Within Rivian, a dedicated development programme had been underway since 2022, involving around 70 employees before the spin-off.
This unit was established as Also in spring, with Eclipse Ventures becoming the majority investor by contributing the mentioned amount. Rivian remains a minority shareholder, and the two companies intend to maintain close collaboration. RJ Scaringe serves as Chairman of Also’s Board of Directors, while the startup’s CEO, Chris Yu, previously held senior positions at Rivian and earlier served as Chief Product and Technology Officer at bicycle manufacturer Specialized. The companies also plan to share retail space in selected Rivian locations.
This article was first published by Cora Werwitzke for electrive’s German edition.
0 Comments