Citkar wins new investor for cargo e-bike Loadster

Berlin-based startup Citkar has found a new investor that will help kick-off series production of their four-wheeled cargo pedelec Loadster. Investor TEC Ventures is active in the clean energy industry and is to reload logistics now. 

Citkar had presented its Loadster this April. The car-like electric cargo bike is fully covered but requires the driver to pedal in order to be assisted by the pedelec system by Brose.

Their new investor TEC Ventures is to enable the small company to present a near-series model at the IAA this September. Yet, the sum of the investment has not been disclosed. In a statement, TEC Venture CEO Sebastian Seitz positioned the Loadster as a solution for congested streets in cities.

Because the Loadster is classified as Pedelec25, it classifies as bicycle in Europe. This means it does not require a driver’s license and can be driven in parks or on cycle lanes. The firm is also working on a speed pedelec version with 40 kph.

Citkar says the Loadster can carry up to 300 kilos and got a box with 422 litres volume. A 1,500 Wh batteries holds energy for a range of up to 200 kilometres. The cargo pedelec weighs 60 kilos including the plastic cover. The pedals are in the middle of the vehicle, leaving the chain uncovered between the legs of the rider, who is in a semi-lying position. A steering wheel replaces the handlebar.

The startup wants to assemble their Loadster in Berlin’s belt, that is Brandenburg. Preorders are open online and Citkar wants to begin building their cargo pedelec before the year’s end. They have now named VfJ, a workshop employing people with mental or physical challenges, as a new partner. They join the ranks of Brose and TEC Ventures, and Citkar has also managed to get Magura and Enviolo on board.

cleanthinking.de (in German)