General Motors is launching two eBikes, a folding one and a compact one, and the company is asking consumers to come up with a name for the new product.
Electric bikes, along with scooters, are becoming more and more common in cities. eBike popularity is soaring, with sales increasing 95 percent from July 2016 to July 2017, according to data from market research firm NPD Group. The industry is estimated to be worth $65 million.
As a result, car manufacturers like GM are interested in creating their own electric bikes for public usage. GM’s two eBikes are described as “innovative, integrated, and connected.” However, the bikes have yet to be named. That’s where you come in.
If you’re interested in submitting an idea, visit www.eBikeBrandChallenge.com. The individual who comes up with the eBike’s brand name will receive US$10,000. Nine runners-up will receive $1,000 each.
“As an avid cyclist and urban commuter, I know how great it feels to get where I’m going easily and to show up sweat-free,” commented Hannah Parish, director of General Motors Urban Mobility Solutions. “We blended electrification engineering know-how, design talents and automotive-grade testing with great minds from the bike industry to create our eBikes. Now we want to expand our thinking beyond the company walls and hear from people who like to move and have rad ideas.”
GM has some advice for those entering the contest. The company stresses that it is looking for a “simple, smart and bold concept capable of bringing the eBike brand to life.” Qualities they seek include a rich personality and a smart and provocative tone.
In addition, the name must be usable around the world. Participants are urged to do some research and, for example, not inadvertently choose a name that may be insulting in another language.
Who can enter? Legal residents of Canada (excluding Quebec), the United States, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, and United Kingdom. Individuals must be at least 18 years old and the age of majority in their jurisdiction when they enter the contest.
Entries will be accepted until Nov. 26 at 7 p.m. PT. The winners will be revealed on Jan. 31.
It’s unclear how much GM’s eBikes will cost. Competitor bikes currently on the market range from several hundred to several thousand dollars. The consensus appears to be that spending about $1,500 is a good starting point for a reliable machine.
