Veer, a pioneering San Francisco-based company, is driven to revolutionize the eBike and Light Electric Vehicle (LEV) industry with its next-gen drivetrains. Harnessing the strength of carbon fiber drivetrains and innovative drive systems, Veer is striving to replace age-old chain drives and gearbox transmissions, aiming to modernize LEVs as cities race towards electrified transportation.
Fueled by its mission to combat climate change, Veer seeks to accelerate the adoption of LEV usage for local transportation. The company has identified existing challenges with LEVs; they need to have more range, more power, and be more affordable. Veer offers innovative solutions, especially its Shift Drive system, which makes LEVs significantly more affordable and efficient.
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Veer's recent partnership with Phatfour, (https://www.phatfour.com/en-GB ), a Dutch-based eBike brand, and the unveiling of its Super Belt and Xpert Drive product lines at Eurobike emphasize the company's progressive trajectory. Veer is also in the process of developing its patented Shift system, a 2-speed shifting mechanism set to redefine LEV efficiency.
Veer also recently launched a StartEngine campaign, (https://www.startengine.com/offering/veer), to accelerate the launch of the company's Shift Drive.
"The technology used in LEVs today is antiquated, rooted in designs over 140 years old," said Sean Hacking, founder and chief technical officer of Veer. "Our Shift Drive System eliminates the need for traditional chain systems and gearboxes, which not only have higher costs but also demand regular maintenance. Our system allows for seamless and efficient shifting on traditionally single-speed drives, ensuring optimal motor performance across various speeds."
Many LEVs, like eScooters and eMotorcycles, do not have a method to change gears, causing the electric drive system to have trouble operating at the most efficient speed, limiting range and performance. Development and integration of new technologies into different vehicle designs is difficult and expensive, holding back the entire industry. Veer's technologies are innovated specifically for LEVs and ease of integration into the vehicles. Their initial innovation, Split BeltTM, was the first spliced belt drive that allowed eBikes to adopt the benefits of low maintenance and durability of belt drives with the installation ease of a chain.
Highlighting the company's market advances, Hacking noted, "The LEV industry is experiencing rapid growth and is prime for fresh innovation. Every LEV using a chain drive is part of our target. We are focused on delivering a more reliable, cost-effective, and safer drivetrain system that aligns with our vision of a sustainable future."
Statistics reveal a promising opportunity for Veer in the LEV market. By 2027, the worldwide bicycle market is projected to surge to $147.24 billion, according to a recent Fortune Business Insights report. Additionally, the electric bike market, valued at $28.87 billion in 2023, is expected to hit $52.59 billion by 2028 as highlighted in a recent Mordor Intelligence report.
For users, the benefits of Veer's Shift Belt Drive system are many-fold, ranging from increased efficiency, reduced maintenance, increased durability, cleaner usage, smoother performance, and lighter weight. Above all, the Shift system allows LEVs to use smaller motors and batteries, decreasing the overall cost of vehicles so they are more accessible to the public.
"We've received overwhelming feedback from our customers, many of whom emphasize the longevity and durability of our belt drives, especially when compared to chains. The zero-maintenance aspect is a game-changer for daily commuters, and the ride quality is unparalleled," explained Kelly Burr, CEO of Veer.
Top Benefits and Features of Veer's Shift Belt Drive System:
- Minimal Maintenance: The belts and transmissions are designed to be hassle-free. There's no need for regular lubrication, they're resistant to rust, and cleaning is as simple as giving them a rinse.
- Enhanced Durability: Veer belts are designed for endurance. Constructed from carbon fiber-reinforced polymer, they wear at a much slower pace compared to chains and can handle the torque of eBike motors with ease. On average, they can outlive chains by up to four times, even on eBikes.
- Sleek and Clean: Say goodbye to greasy pant cuffs or messy hands. The Veer belt system operates without the need for oily lubricants, ensuring you and your bike remain spotless.
- Smooth Performance: Experience a jolt-free ride with Veer belts. Without the common stretch found in chains, riders can enjoy an immediate power transfer with every pedal stroke, making it feel as though they're effortlessly soaring.
- Featherlight Design: The belt drives are significantly lighter than their chain counterparts, with belts weighing in at just a quarter of a standard chain's weight. The Shift system itself is less bulky and weighs less than the most popular internally geared hubs and gearboxes currently used.
- Whisper Quiet: Enjoy the silence. Veer's belt drive operates so quietly that you might forget they are there.
- Wide Compatibility: Veer's Shift Belt Drive system seamlessly integrates with leading motor manufacturers such as Bosch, Bafang, Shimano Steps, and Brose. It fits smoothly into existing vehicle designs and can adapt to a wide array of LEVs without the need for extensive modifications.
On Veer's StartEngine launch, Burr noted, "We're on the cusp of a significant leap in our journey. This campaign aims to expedite the development of our Shift Drive, ensuring it reaches the market faster, offering consumers an unmatched LEV experience."
Veer's inception traces back to Hacking's passion for bikes and engineering. A life-altering accident in Taiwan due to a snapped chain in heavy traffic compelled him to explore more reliable drivetrain alternatives. The result was Veer's first product, the Split Belt.
"I thought that there must be a better, more reliable drivetrain available," Hacking recalled. "This was not the first time I had a mechanical failure that caused an accident, but I wanted to make sure it was the last.
Burr, reflecting on the company's DNA and future, commented, "With over 40 years in the bike business, I have aimed to fuse my love of riding with a vision tailored to customer needs. Our recent partnerships, product launches, and StartEngine campaign launch underline our unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation in the LEV space."
Burr also added, "Veer's team has a lifelong passion for cycling, and believes LEVs can help fight global warming and change the world for the better. We rely upon that passion and expertise in the pursuit of not only growing the company but the expansion of our product offerings. Our new Superbelt line opens the door to higher-powered eBikes and cargo bikes that need the ultimate in durability and reliability. This is a massively growing market for commercial applications as more delivery companies are using e-cargo bikes for 'last-mile' deliveries."
Veer's team has never lost sight of their company's larger goals of benefiting the environment and improving lives.
"When I get stuck in gridlock, I can't help but dream about a future where people can get around quickly, easily, and healthily in their community. We see this happen in cities all around the world - when they transition from car-centric transportation to smaller, cleaner alternative vehicles - it creates a happier and healthier way of life," Hacking added.
