The future of mobility is electric, and e-bikes are right in the thick of it. They’re weaving into our daily lives, whether it’s for commuting, errands, or just a fun weekend ride. So it begs the question: if your laptop, smartphone, tablet, action cam, and even vape all charge via USB-C, why can’t your e-bike?
That’s the question Ampler seems to be answering with its new Nova series. The Estonia-based brand just launched two fresh e-bikes, the Nova and Nova Pro, and they both come with USB-C PD 3.1 charging. Yes, actual USB-C, like the kind on your MacBook. You can top up the 48V 336Wh integrated battery from zero to full in around three hours using a 140W USB-C charger.
That's quick, and more importantly, convenient.
While USB-C isn’t new tech, this is arguably the biggest real-world application of it in the e-bike space. Most e-bikes still rely on bulky proprietary bricks and connectors, many of which are prone to damage or simply hard to replace. If you forget one on a trip, good luck finding a match at a local store. But a USB-C charger? You’ll probably find one in your backpack—or at the nearest electronics shop.
The Nova series proves this setup is not only possible but practical.
These aren’t high-wattage, high-capacity mountain crushers—they're city bikes designed for real-world use. Both the €2,990 Nova and €3,490 Nova Pro (about $3,230 and $3,770 USD, respectively) come with 250W motors limited to 25 kilometers per hour (about 15.5 miles per hour) and relatively small batteries that make USB-C charging a viable option. The Pro even features a low-maintenance Gates Carbon belt drive, perfect for city slickers who prefer clean pants.
Is it safe? Given Ampler’s engineering and adherence to USB-C PD standards, yes. The company even tested compatibility with common chargers like those from Ikea and Apple, though they’ll sell you a 140W version for €80 (about $87 USD) if needed. The port’s even bidirectional, letting you charge your gadgets—albeit slowly at 15W—off the bike if needed.
Preorders are open now across the UK, EU, and Switzerland, with deliveries starting in June. No word yet on global availability, but it’s a solid sign of where things are headed.
As more devices standardize around USB-C, it just makes sense for e-bikes to follow suit. It reduces waste, cuts down on clutter, and makes life easier for riders. You can now use the same cable to charge your laptop, phone—and your e-bike.
Sounds like a micromobility win to me.
