China’s “Apple of electric scooters” announces new series aimed at broader user base

Niu (小牛 in Chinese) has announced the launch of a new line of electric scooters: the U series. Short for “Ultra lite,” the U1 is designed for a broad market. Whereas the N and M series are for enthusiasts, the U series references the electric bicycles seen on many of China’s streets. The U series is set to appeal to a variety of users and, indeed, solves a big pain point for any bicycle rider: how to carry your stuff from place to place.

China has increasingly become a place for cars. For many, however, bikes and their electric counterparts are the main modes of transportation, with many not even owning a car. With no car, storage capacity becomes an important consideration when purchasing the next vehicle. U1 solves this neatly by allowing users to add on as much or as little storage racks as they like. In fact, with 30 bracket mounts and an open modular accessory system, the U1 offers a degree of customization never seen before for China’s e-scooters.

Beyond aesthetics, user problems and cool features, the U1 also solves a legal problem: compliance with China’s fragmented regulations.

What you get

Full access to all premium content and our full archives

Members'-only newsletters

Preferential access and discounts to all TechNode events

Direct access to the TechNode newsroom