Rad Power Bikes gets a new owner, pledge to build bikes in the US

Source: Engadget

Acquisition Details

Life EV has completed a court‑approved acquisition of Rad Power Bikes, taking ownership of the brand, intellectual property, inventory, and certain operating assets. The Florida‑based company will continue to operate under the Rad Power Bikes name in the United States and plans to expand to “select key markets.”

Commitments and Future Plans

• The new owner will honor warranties and gift cards purchased before the acquisition.
• New bikes will be built in the United States.
• Life EV will adopt a Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) structure for its manufacturing operations, allowing special domestic customs procedures when sourcing parts from global suppliers.

“Rad Power Bikes has helped define the e‑bike category in North America with its innovative products and passionate rider community,” said Life EV CEO Rob Provost. “Respecting and preserving that legacy—its brand, vision, and leadership—is foundational to this acquisition. Together, we will build on that trust and create new opportunities for riders nationwide.”

Background

• In December, Rad Power Bikes filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy after the Consumer Product Safety Commission warned customers to “immediately stop using” certain e‑bike batteries due to a fire hazard. The company said it could not afford to recall the at‑risk batteries.
• Less than two months later, a fire broke out at a Rad Power Bikes retail store warehouse in Huntington Beach, California. The incident was contained while the store was closed, and the cause remained unconfirmed.