Rivian spinout Also apologizes for delays in shipping futuristic e-bikes
Rivian's Also division has significantly delayed the TM-B electric bike, pushing delivery from spring/summer 2026 to an uncertain fall timeline or beyond The delays stem from three main challenges: AI-boom-driven supply chain shortages for PCB and IC components, regulatory hurdles around the 240W power delivery exceeding current safety standards, and manufacturing complexity of the DreamRide pedal-by-wire drivetrain Also's product manager Saul Leiken publicly apologized on Reddit, attributing de
Analysis
TL;DR
- Rivian's Also division has significantly delayed the TM-B electric bike, pushing delivery from spring/summer 2026 to an uncertain fall timeline or beyond
- The delays stem from three main challenges: AI-boom-driven supply chain shortages for PCB and IC components, regulatory hurdles around the 240W power delivery exceeding current safety standards, and manufacturing complexity of the DreamRide pedal-by-wire drivetrain
- Also's product manager Saul Leiken publicly apologized on Reddit, attributing delays to strict quality standards rather than rushing an unfinished product
- The TM-B features a unique software-controlled pedal-by-wire system, USB-C chargeable battery, removable seat post, and Gates Carbon belt drive — making it one of the most technologically complex e-bikes ever designed
- Also acknowledges they should have been more transparent about the challenges and timelines from the outset
Why It Matters
This case illustrates the real-world friction between ambitious software-defined hardware and manufacturing reality — a challenge increasingly relevant as AI and software become central to physical product design. It also highlights how the broader AI chip boom is creating supply chain ripple effects that extend far beyond traditional tech into consumer hardware like e-bikes.
Technical Details
- DreamRide Drivetrain: A pedal-by-wire system with no mechanical connection between pedals and wheels; the rider pedals a generator motor on the crank to replenish the battery, while a separate rear traction motor is software-driven via a Gates Carbon belt drive, requiring high-precision manufacturing
- Battery System: Available in 538Wh and 808Wh packs targeting up to 100 miles of range, with 240W power delivery that exceeds current regulatory guidelines, forcing engagement with standards groups to establish new safety and testing protocols
- Supply Chain Constraints: Shortages of printed circuit board (PCB) and integrated circuit (IC) materials driven by AI industry demand, requiring alternative material sourcing and additional engineering validation
- Software-Defined Architecture: The TM-B's unique feature set — USB-C charging, removable seat post, software-controlled pedaling — represents a highly integrated electronics and firmware stack that complicates both design iteration and production scaling
Industry Insight
- Companies pursuing highly complex, software-defined hardware should invest in realistic production timelines and maintain proactive customer communication rather than overpromising on ambitious launch dates
- The AI chip boom's supply chain effects are now spilling into non-traditional sectors, and hardware companies should factor semiconductor and component availability into product roadmaps more carefully
- This situation underscores the importance of engaging regulatory bodies early when developing products that push beyond existing safety and power delivery standards, as retrofitting compliance can cause significant delays
Disclaimer: The above content is generated by AI and is for reference only.