Rivian spinoff Also to start delivering e-bikes after months of delays

The quiet emergence of Also, a spinoff from Rivian, delivering its e-bikes after a period of delays, speaks to a broader shift in how companies are approaching last-mile logistics and the integration of electric vehicles into everyday infrastructure. While the TM-B e-bike itself represents a niche product, Also’s ambition – to become a “vehicle” company building four-wheel pedal-assist cargo vehicles for Amazon – hints at a much larger vision. This isn’t simply about replacing traditional delivery methods; it’s about reimagining the entire movement of goods within urban environments, leveraging human power and electric assistance to navigate congested streets and reduce reliance on larger, less agile vehicles. The current strain on the semiconductor supply chain, as highlighted in [Samsung expects memory shortage to worsen through 2027 and last until 2028], undoubtedly presents a challenge for Also, adding to production costs and potentially impacting timelines, but it also underscores the strategic importance of diversifying vehicle manufacturing and exploring alternative power sources.

The focus on pedal-assist technology is particularly interesting, especially when viewed alongside initiatives like Florida's recent decision to repurpose EV charger funds for air taxi pads [Florida plans to build air taxi pads using $200M intended for EV chargers]. While seemingly disparate, both represent attempts to circumvent traditional transportation bottlenecks and explore innovative solutions for urban mobility. Also's approach, grounded in a more tangible and scalable technology, feels less speculative than the air taxi concept. Moreover, the drive for more human-like AI interaction, exemplified by companies like Smallest.ai, which recently raised $13M to build ultra-fast voice AI [Smallest.ai raises $13M to build ultra-fast voice AI that sounds genuinely human], could potentially play a role in optimizing these cargo vehicles, enabling automated route planning, and enhancing delivery efficiency. The convergence of these trends – electric propulsion, human-powered assistance, and advanced AI – points to a future where logistics are far more decentralized and adaptable.

The Amazon partnership is a crucial element of Also’s strategy, providing a significant customer base and potentially valuable logistical insights. Amazon’s continued investment in last-mile delivery solutions signals a recognition that traditional delivery models are reaching their limits in densely populated areas. Integrating pedal-assist cargo vehicles could offer a more sustainable and cost-effective alternative for shorter distances, especially in areas where vehicle size and maneuverability are constraints. While the scale of Amazon's operations presents considerable challenges, the potential benefits – reduced emissions, lower operating costs, and increased delivery flexibility – are compelling. It’s also worth noting that this strategy aligns with a broader consumer trend towards valuing sustainability and supporting businesses committed to reducing their environmental impact.

Ultimately, Also's trajectory, and the success of its Amazon partnership, will be a bellwether for the future of urban logistics. The shift from solely focusing on fully electric vehicles to incorporating human power and pedal-assist technology represents a pragmatic and potentially more resilient approach to last-mile delivery. The question now is whether this model can be scaled effectively and whether other companies will follow suit, recognizing the limitations of purely automated solutions and embracing a hybrid approach that leverages both human and electric power. The broader implications for urban planning, infrastructure development, and the future of work are substantial, making Also's progress one to watch closely.