CITKAR ready to scale with new investor & MT
Future-proof e-cargo bikes for city logistics
Berlin, May 10, 2022 – Berlin-based CITKAR has found a new investor in Bloomit Ventures, the Dutch accelerator for light electric vehicles, originated by the founders of Babboe Cargo Bikes. CITKAR, manufacturer of e-cargo bikes for last-mile delivery, is now led by a new management team Stefan Räth (operations) and Andreas Schäfer (technology).
CITKAR produces four-wheeled 25 km/h pedelecs that combine the best aspects of a delivery van with the benefits of an e-bike. A smart mix of low running costs, zero-emission transport and a small road footprint with comfort, weather protection and a high carrying capacity. Together with Bloomit, CITKAR aims to quickly scale up in cities in Europe and beyond.
From Prototype to Series Production
Before series production started in 2020 in Berlin-Marzahn, CITKAR spent many years developing. Over time, a variety of prototypes have been crafted to meet the needs of the market. Recent prototypes have won several awards, including Best of Mobility Award (2019), Green Product Award (2020) and German Award for Sustainability (2021).
Ahead of the Pack
With 4 wheels, a covered cabin to stay dry, a steering wheel, cup and telephone holder, a seat with backrest, light indicators, a large cargo space up to 1500L, etc., the CITKAR looks like a van. Yet it is an e-bike (width 100 cm). Cycling is supported by a strong e-motor (250W) and 2 removable batteries (1600 Wh) with a range of 60 km. Rechargeable in 3 -5 hours in a regular outlet. Plus: these specs make the CITKAR exceptional.
New Management Team
CITKAR is now active in 7 countries, with various big brand clients and a growing turnover. To handle the growing demand and varied needs, both operationally and technically, CITKAR is led by a joint MT. Stefan Räth is CEO with a profound background in finance and operations, while Andreas Shäfer is CTO and co-founder CITKAR, responsible for production and NPD.
Future-proof city logistics
Last mile city logistics is a growing challenge. Electrifying delivery vans will not solve traffic jams or parking pressure. CITKAR and Bloomit see the EV transition as a great opportunity to opt for smart and smaller urban vehicles that take up less space, use less energy, create less unsafety and deliver major health benefits. CITKAR is a great example of a clean, easy and accessible transport solution for everyone aged 16 plus.
Quote Stefan Räth, CEO: “The CITKAR has been specially developed as a last mile workhorse to relieve city centers with a compact, emission free delivery alternative at low operating costs.”
Quote Niek van Exel, founder Bloomit: “We invested in CITKAR because they have a market-leading solution to make everyday European city logistics more sustainable and easier with an award-winning solid cargo bike solution."
More information :
CITKAR GmbH, Pyramidenring 12, 12681 Berlin, Germany
Contact: Stefan Räth, CEO | stefan.raeth@citkar.com | +49 176 3114 7957
Website: The Citkar: The e-bike as a cargo vehicle | Citkar
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