Rivian files trademark application for its electric bicycles
Rivian files trademark application for its electric bicycles
Rivian, a manufacturer of electric vehicles, has registered a new trademark for bicycles and electric bikes, as well as the structural components that make up the bicycles and electric bikes. According to some, the move could indicate that Rivian is considering jumping on the e-bike bandwagon and diversifying its portfolio with a product that is more cost effective to manufacture at scale than electric pickup trucks and is more in line with its targeted "adventure" seeking demographic than electric pickup trucks.
In response to TechCrunch's questions, Rivian said it had no information to share on the matter and declined to comment.
Other automakers are beginning to recognize the value of the e-bike industry, which saw a 240 percent increase in sales in the 12 months ending in July, despite the fact that many companies register trademarks for products they never use. Porsche introduced two new e-bikes last year that were inspired by the Taycan Cross Turismo and were available in limited quantities. BMW recently announced plans to manufacture several e-bikes and other micromobility vehicles, including the all-electric CE 04 scooter, as part of its ongoing commitment to sustainable mobility.
Earlier this month, Rivian announced that it would use a portion of the $13.7 billion raised during its initial public offering to construct a second factory in Georgia (the company's first is in Illinois) to double its production capacity and produce battery cells – cells that could theoretically be used in batteries for other types of vehicles as well as electric vehicles.
According to the filing, which was first made public by Rivian Forums, Rivian intends to broaden the scope of its trademark use to include the following items as well:
Bicycles; bicycle structural components; electric bicycles; electric bicycle components designed specifically for electric cycling, such as battery packs and motor controllers; electric motors; throttle controls; pedal assist sensors; display consoles; wiring harnesses; and chain; and other bicycle-related products. Bike frame parts, bicycle horns, bicycle chains, bicycle wheels, bicycle tags, bicycle seats, bicycle tires, bicycle cranks, bicycle mudguards, bicycle pedals, bicycle motors, bicycle stands, bicycle saddles, fitted bicycle covers, bicycle bells, bicycle handlebars, bicycle trailers, bicycle kickstands, bicycle seat posts, bicycle wheel spokes, bicycle wheel rims, bicycle pedal straps, bicycle pumps, bicycle parts.
As part of its patent application, Rivian recently filed a patent for an integrated tailgate cargo system for automotive vehicles, which is essentially a tailgate bike rack that allows drivers to transport a bicycle without taking up valuable bed space. Perhaps the company, which is best known for its R1T truck accessories, wishes to design the entire package for its target audience – the eco-conscious rugged American explorer – rather than just the truck accessories.
