http://urb-e.com

Press

Video Links:

" One of the more interesting discoveries at CES 2014 " - Tech Crunch

" Felt like the kind of vehicle an enlightened citizen of 2030 would own. It’s fast, maneuverable, and lightweight. With a 20-mile range on a full battery charge, it could work well for most city dwellers’ daily commutes. " - The Verge

 The Today Show

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Awards

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The Ultimate 'Last Mile' Vehicle

It takes only one second to convert the URB-E from something the size of carry on luggage to a 'go anywhere' personal e-vehicle!  Although there are other options for mobility devices such as bicycles and larger, more expensive e-vehicles on the market, it is not always possible to take these vehicles with you while traveling on a crowded train or bus during rush hour.  Because of its amazingly compact size and ability to stay with you while traveling on a train, bus, or trunk of your car, the URB-E makes for the perfect commuter companion.

Other applications well suited for the URB-E include RV's, Boats, Private Aircraft, Universities, Corporate Campuses, Government Agencies, Resorts, and Tourism.

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BLACK by URB-E

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The URB-E COMMUTER

The URB-E Commuter is the perfect vehicle for the highly congested urban environment.  Its three wheel trike design allows for added stability and greater lower speed maneuverability, perfect for navigating pedestrian traffic.  The two rear wheels also serve as a very stable way to roll the URB-E around while in its folded position, similar to pulling a piece of luggage.  Although the URB-E Commuter is capable of the same speeds as the GP (15mph), it is better suited for slower speed turns. (image shown with optional luggage rack accessory and bag) 

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The URB-E GP

The URB-E GP is... well... let's just say... a LOT of fun!  Although this machine has the exact same power specifications as its more practical brother, the URB-E GP likes to live on the wild side.  The short wheel base of the GP's two wheel design gives it the agility of race car and a fun factor of 11 out of 10!  Unlike anything you've ridden before, the GP will bring you back to the way you felt when you first learned how to ride a bike!  Though it's a little more challenging than the URB-E Commuter at slower speeds, we're sure you won't be disappointed riding the coolest e-bike in town!

Specs for COMMUTER and GP

• Weight: (with battery): 27lbs (13kg) 
• Material: Machined recyclable aircraft grade aluminum (powder coated)
• Battery: Lithium Ion, 36V 10Ah, 20 mile (32km) range, approx. 3hr charge time
• 250W brushless electric hub motor:  8" wheel, 15 mph (24km/h) top speed
• Size: 16"x16"x 36" (40 x 40 x 91cm) folded
• Disk Brake
• Finger throttle for the Commuter model.  Grip twist throttle for the GP.
• Removable rear wheel assembly for converting your URB-E to either the COMMUTER or GP model. (optional wheel assembly not included, but can be purchased as an accessory)
• Included Accessories: Color sleeve inserts, additional customizable clear sleeve inserts, 100V - 240V Universal charger, LED front and rear lights, universal smart phone holder (fits most smart phones), USB charging port, shock absorbing comfort seat, custom URB-E App download.
• Optional Accessories: Color spectrum LED lights operated from smart phone app, folding luggage rack (mounts on front or back), wheel fenders, shoulder strap, wireless bluetooth speakers, handlebar bell, cup holder, custom URB-E briefcase, rear wheel conversion kit for either the COMMUTER or GP model.

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Personalize your URB-E!

Your URB-E can be personalized by choosing your own color combination.  Both the URB-E Commuter and URB-E GP will be offered initially in our three base colors (Carbon Grey, Cloud White, or GoGo Green) or two premium colors (Polished Gold or MRDR Black).  With your order, you will be able to choose from a selection of accent color inserts.  Accent color choices are black, blue, white, hot pink, yellow, or Dot orange.

Unlimited Customization!

In addition to the accent color you choose, you will also receive a second set of clear sleeves, which are fully customizable to create whatever design or color you desire.  We will include instructions on some easy ways to create a custom design, and later in the year, we will host a competition on our website to see who created the most unique designs.  The winners of the competition will win some really great stuff including URB-E accessories, and will have their designs posted on our website for the entire URB-E community to see! 

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Charge your smart phone

(IOS & ANDROID) 

The universal smart phone holder will work for both IOS and ANDROID, and will enable you to charge your phone while you ride.  The external USB plug also allows you to use the URB-E's Lithium Ion battery to charge any additional device such as a laptop, tablet, etc. 

URB-E App

The URB-E App is being developed for both IOS and ANDROID, and will monitor battery charge, range, speed, controls for LED lighting, music, and navigation.  There will also be an optional power override feature which will allow you to utilize your mobile device as the URB-E's key.  Our release of the App will be announced in the near future.

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Adaptable and theft resistant

Due to its unique ability to collapse, the URB-E can be taken virtually anywhere!  Whether you are going into your office, moving around a corporate campus, heading into a college classroom, or going for lunch in a fancy restaurant, the URB-E can go wherever bikes can't, and because it can always stay with you, you no longer need to worry about it being stolen!

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Message about our $799 price point

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URB-E goes to China...

Grant on a recent trip to China.  Footage taken with a GoPro.

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Meet Herb the gorilla.  The original URB-E promo video...

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The URB-E Team

Grant Delgatty, co-founder & CEO:  Grant has designed hundreds of products ranging from furniture, sporting goods, consumer electronics, retail environments, protective gear, and housewares.  A significant portion of his career, however, has been devoted to footwear design.  He has led design for a number of shoe companies including Vans shoes.  During his 7 years as Design Director at Vans, the company saw growth of more than $700 million in yearly revenue.  In 2008, Grant launched his own sustainable footwear company called Urshuz, which was a new footwear concept based on a patented technology he developed, where consumers can interchange the soles and uppers of their shoes to create a customized look, and allow the soles to be 100% recyclable.  Grant has taught at Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, CA since 2007, specializing in product, mobility and transportation design.

Mateo Neri, co-founder & COO:  Mateo is a serial entrepreneur and award-winning designer. He co-founded companies that launched innovative digital products for such companies as: Mercedes-Benz, Nike, Disney, Motorola, Intel, Wells Fargo, Coca-Cola and the International Olympic Committee. He holds eight patents for online products still being used today. Received more than 26 awards of excellence, including The Edison Award for Social Impact innovation, and is the recipient of the first Clio ever awarded in interactive. Featured in several high profile publications, including The Wall Street Journal, the New York Times and the Los Angeles Times, some of his early projects included work on some of the first e-commerce sites, social networks (before they were coined as such), digital toys and sensor-based and touch-screen technology. Mateo is a graduate of the Art Center College of Design, where he co-founded the new entrepreneur program and has a degree in Solar Energy Technology from Cabrillo College in Santa Cruz, Ca.

Todd Belle, co-founder & CMO: Todd is a multi-faceted industrial designer that is empowered by inquiry and investigation. He believes that abstract connections make for innovative solutions. He is a seasoned brand storyteller, creating consumer experiences from retail to UX/UI.  Previously, Todd co-founded Carbon Project Inc., a strategic design consultancy. His clients included Nike, Lincoln, Ford, the Detroit Lions, Columbia Sportswear, Samsung, Endologix, Fujitsu and the Walt Disney Company. Todd formerly was the Global Brand Image Director for Walt Disney Consumer Products; the Experience Design Manager for Ford Motor Company's portfolio of brands; he was also a Senior/Lead Designer at Nike, Inc., leading projects that include the flagship retail NikeTowns in New York, London and Berlin. His work has gained award recognition from “Most Innovative Retail” Award, AIGA, ID Magazine, Communication Arts, IDSA, and the Clio awards for interactive design. Todd is an alumni from the Art Center College of Design and has been an associate professor there in the graduate and undergraduate product design departments as well as a visiting professor to INSEAD Business School to the World in Singapore.

Sven Etzelsberger, SVP, Engineer: Sven has more than 20 years of experience in the automotive industry around the globe. In Germany, he worked at Porsche on the development of formidable sports cars and eventually came to Porsche’s Californian design center to head the studio engineering, which culminated in the production release of the Cayman. He was chief engineer and vehicle line executive at Fisker, where he earned his stripes in alternative energy transportation. He is currently the VP of Advanced Engineering at Saleen Automotive, still pushing the boundaries of electric performance vehicles. Sven’s passion includes anything that merges clever engineering with drop dead gorgeous design. He builds motorcycles in his garage that are just as powerful as they are visually striking. The relatively young field of personal urban transportation is especially fascinating for him since it allows to combine creative engineering solutions with a high end development approach.              

 Jason Chuan, VP of Marketing: Jason is our tech advisor for SEO, Social Media, as well as helping on photo shoots for the outdoor scenes.

Sho Rust, Design Head: Sho handles all design associated with web, press kits, social, and many other items.

Will Evans, Brand, Master: Will is our brand master who created the URB-E logo that we love.  

 Black Sock Studio: William De Leon and Yves Truong created the URB-E indiegogo video and studio shots.

In addition to our core team, we also have a great advisory board who have helped us along the way, as well as protecting our brand and IP globally.

Dr. Tom Kosnik: Dr. Tom Kosnik is a Fenwick & West Consulting Professor, Stanford Technology Ventures Program (STVP), Dept. of Management Science and Engineering, Stanford University. He currently serves on the teaching teams of three courses; Global Entrepreneurial Marketing, Global Entrepreneurial Leadership, and the Draper Fisher Jurvetson Entrepreneurial Thought Leaders Program. Dr. Kosnik has worked with over 100 startups since 1978. He also provides consulting and executive education.

Dirk Michels & Katherine Blair: Partners at K & L Gates.

David Bailey & John Peck: Partners at KPPB IP law firm.

Jeff Joyner: Board Member at Clean Tech Los Angeles, Co-Chair at Los Angeles Economic Development Corporation and Shareholder at Greenberg Traurig.

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How URB-E was born

We started a company in March, 2011 called ideapiphany.  The goal of this company was to design and develop products for growing consumer market needs.  One of the areas we were interested in was the growing trend for urban commuters to utilize alternative forms of clean energy transportation to commute.

Because of increased congestion within most cities worldwide, and today's high cost of vehicle ownership, more and more commuters are utilizing public transportation to commute.  This is not only a more convenient and cost effective way to travel, but it is also a much greener approach to commuting.

The one problem associated with using public transportation however is, how does one get to their final destination after getting off the train or bus?  This scenario is what is often referred to as the 'last mile'.  We decided this was an important enough problem to solve, so we launched a company called EgoLogical Mobility Solutions, and began to develop our first product, the URB-E.

Although many commuters are utilizing bikes to address this need, it is not always easy or convenient to take a bicycle onto a packed train or bus during rush hour.  The other problem with bicycles is, in most cases, commuters leave their bikes locked on the street and risk vandalism and theft.  The URB-E solves this problem by being able to always stay with you.

There are other e-vehicles currently on the market which are trying to address the last mile scenario, but none of them compare to the URB-E with how easy it is to ride, how compact and portable it is, and most are more expensive.

We started designing the URB-E the end of 2012, and have built and extensively tested multiple prototypes in order to develop what we feel is the ultimate personal mobility device.  We were also able to partner with former lead engineer at Porsche, Sven Etzelsberger, to help us with the final engineering specs, so we like to say it has the same engineering DNA as Porsche!

The URB-E is made from recyclable aircraft grade aluminum that has been machined to reduce all but the essential material for maximum weight reduction and reveal the iconic hole pattern, similar to how race cars and aircraft are built.

URB-E has many beneficial features such as an integrated luggage rack, a patented folding mechanism and shock absorbing seat for an extremely comfortable ride, led lighting, and replaceable color sleeve inserts for creating a personalized look.  It also has an option to be a three wheel trike version for more stability in slower moving pedestrian traffic, or a more aggressive two wheel GP edition for a little more freedom and excitement.  There is also an integrated universal smart phone mount with custom App being developed to monitor the URB-E's speed, battery, range, and navigation, as well as being able to charge your phone and other devices with the integrated USB port.

URB-E has teamed up with a production facility in Pasadena, CA called Foes Racing, and is ready to begin production early spring, 2014.  Foes makes hand made, high end downhill mountain bikes, so we are confident we will be delivering a very high quality product.

Sounds of URB-E creation...

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Manufacturing & Timeline 

Our goal is to deliver the best product possible.  Our manufacturer is working on stress and durability testing to ensure a quality product.  Initial URB-E production will be made and assembled at our production facility located in Pasadena, California.  This allows us to personally inspect each component and test before delivering.

The owner of our manufacturing facility is Brent Foes, a high-end mountain bike craftsman who hand makes mountain bikes for the hardcore racer and everyday rider.  Brent has been developing innovations for more than 20 years and has added his expertise and years of experience to the production of the URB-E.  We are thrilled to have this master craftsman help us produce these!  For more info on Foes, go to http://foesracing.com/bikes/

We are working hard to deliver product for Summer 2014.  As mentioned, our initial production will begin in Pasadena, however the capacity of Foes is not suited for mass quantity.  Should we receive a large volume of orders, we do have a contingency plan in place with strategic production connections in Asia.  Our goal is to maintain a US made component to our product, so we have made sure we will be able to produce URB-E's as a collaboration between our Asia and US production facilities.

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Why indiegogo?

When we first decided to raise our startup capital through a crowdfunding campaign, we originally had planned to go with another site that starts with 'K' and ends in 'starter'.  : )  After receiving many accolades from our CES crash party (yes, we got kicked out after 4 hours for not having a booth, lol!), we had some trusted advisors ask us if we had considered using indiegogo instead?  The opinion we heard was, the igg community was probably better suited for this type of product, and we might have wider global reach.  When we received a call from an indiegogo representative explaining all the amazing benefits of the platform, we were pretty convinced!  We have received terrific support throughout this process and are very satisfied with our decision.  Gogo indiegogo!

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Use of funds

We have self funded the development of URB-E from its inception, building many iterations of prototypes and market testing the product.  Our team comes from extensive backgrounds in developing brands and bringing products to market, so we know what it takes to make this happen.  Your contribution to this campaign will allow us to purchase the raw materials, source components, open molds, develop the App, and begin production.

We realize your contribution to pre-purchase an URB-E through this campaign is a significant investment, and we do not take that lightly.  We are confident we can bring the URB-E to life, and have made the necessary accommodations to ensure this product will be delivered, but we need your help to get it there.  Please join us in this first mile, to help you get to the last mile.  Thank you,  The URB-E team.

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FAQ

How much does the URB-E weigh?

Currently, the URB-E weighs in at a lean 27 lbs (13 kg) with the battery installed.

How fast does the Urb-e go?

The URB-E’s speed is fully variable and can move from a crawling, slow pace to 15 mph (24 km/h), the maximum speed for electric personal assistive mobility devices.

How far can the URB-E travel on a charge?

It has a range of approximately 20 miles (32 km) on a single charge depending on use.

What powers the URB-E?

URB-E is powered by a 36 volt lithium-ion battery and a brushless front hub motor rated at 250 watts.  We will be offering a 200 watt motor for countries with certain restrictions.

How do you recharge the URB-E?

It uses a charger that plugs into any standard 120-220 volt wall outlet and fully recharges in 3 hours. The battery can be charged 5000 cycles. Spare batteries and chargers will be available for purchase.

Do I need a special license to operate an URB-E?

The URB-E is a “Electric Personal Assistive Mobility Device” (EPAMD) and each country, state and city has its own laws and restrictions. We strongly advise the use of safety equipment like helmets. Please review your local motor vehicle rules and laws.

Is the URB-E easy to ride?

The URB-E stands on three wheels and is easily balanced. In a matter of minutes you’ll master the controls and confidently navigate your environment. The URB-E GP is our two wheeled version and rides more like a mini bike.

Do you need to pedal it to operate it?

No, the URB-E is a compact electric vehicle and the pedals are for foot placement only.

Can children ride an URB-E?

It is currently a “one size” product and designed for an adult operator. It is not suitable to be operated by children.

How much does it cost?

Based final costing, we anticipate the URB-E and the URB-E GP will be priced in the $1,799 range for the base model and there will be additional accessories for customization.

Where can I buy one?

We’ll be launching our Indiegogo campaign in February 2014 but the URB-E can be pre-ordered on our website and projected release date in Summer 2014.

Does the URB-E come in different colors?

Our body color options for production are endless, but we will offer a select pallet to choose from. Custom colors would be considered a special order. URB-E has a unique customization feature that allows colored panels to be swapped out of the main battery tube. Any color or graphic can be created that shows through the body holes.

Does the URB-E have a line of accessories?

We are planning to launch along with the URB-E, a line of accessories that add to the user experience which include, LED lighting, speakers, case/cover, grips, seats, horns/bells, etc..

How does my smart phone work with my URB-E?

The URB-E provides a dock to view navigation apps and a USB connection to charge your devices. We are currently developing an URB-E App to be launched in 2014.

What is the weight capacity of the URB-E?

Our current model has the weight capacity of 250 lbs.

What is the warranty on the URB-E?

Our company is establishing our resources for all the components that make up the URB-E and will provide a one year limited warranty on the product. We will only introduce a product that can meet 100% satisfaction from our customers and will honor any concerns and issues that arise with our product.

Does the URB-E come with a Gorilla suit?

As an accessory! (note, Gorilla suit is not considered “safety equipment”)

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We'd like to thank...

- Mike Mikity, for helping us weld the very first prototype in your garage

- Javier and Eric at ADM Works, for staying up late to finish our second prototype in time for the Port Tech Open contest (which we won, btw!).

- Stan Tomsic and John Dmohowski for encouraging us to enter the CleanTech Open and PortTech Open, and providing all the great advice and mentorship.

- Tom Kosnik, for the amazing mentorship and advice throughout the CleanTech Open, and helping guide us through this whole endeavor.

- The Cleantech Open and their advisors including Erik Steeb and Brian Yanez.

- The Stanford University Global Entrepreneurial Marketing Team, Guerrilla Marketing Consultants.

- Amy Zhou and Elizabeth Xu, for getting us to the right sourcing connections in China.

- The Back Abbey, for providing us an inspirational eating environment conducive to generating great ideas.

- Stewart Reed, for being our advisor.

- John Davies, for your valuable feedback and support. 

- Neil Brooker, for the introduction to Sven, it made for a perfect fit.

- Sven Etzelsberger, for believing in this project and investing your time with us.

- Jason Chuan, for all the help in managing our social media content.

- Sho Rust, for designing and managing our website.

- Will Evans, for creating our logo and brand identity.

- Will De Leon and Yves Truong for putting up with Grant's meticulous direction, and creating all our awesome video and photo content.

- Todd and Jill Pam, for letting us film in your house.

- Matt Lowe, for bringing 'star power' to our promo video.

- Colleen Johnston, Frances Delgatty, Jody Sappington, Jason Edwards, Racin Delgatty, and Dezin Delgatty for being in the video.

- King's Row, for letting us film at the restaurant.

- Esther Elmer, for getting us the treadmill.

- Jeremy Herron, for getting us the gorilla suit.

- Ezekiel Wheeler, Matt O’brian, Tracee Jeung, Brian Beltz, and Brenda Beltz, for staring in the indiegogo video.

- Lorne Buchman, for giving us a break on your daily rate.

- Dirk Michels and Katherine Blair, for corporate legal advice.

- David Bailey and John Peck, for IP advice.

- Jeff Joyner, for TM and mobility network connections.

- CES, for giving us a 4 hour window of opportunity before kicking us out.

- Katie Linendoll, for getting us on the Today Show.

- Jordon Crook, Matt Burns, and Felicia Williams, for all the great TechCrunch press.

- Ben Popper, for naming us ‘Best of CES’ on the Verge.

- Bre DiGiammarino, Kate Drane and Ben Bateman, for all the amazing support and advice at indiegogo.

- Steve Lubanski at Open Road Bicycle shop, for your opinion and giving us a break on bike parts.

- Ed Haroutonian, for connecting us to Brent.

- Brent Foes, Allen Ovsepyan, Daniel Burt, Ruby, and all the guys at Foes Racing, for helping us dial in an amazing quality product.

- Bob and Diana Mion for their support.

- Our friends and family, for all your support and encouragement.

- Our kids, for understanding when daddy had to miss a game, or needed to be away from home.

- Our amazing wives, for their relentless support, encouragement and belief that all this hard work and sacrifice will pay off in the long run.