Poor Economic Conditions Lead to Growing Interest in Electric Bikes

Jan. 17, 2009 - PRLog -- With gas prices at record highs last summer, electric bikes stormed onto the scene in 2008 and several major retailers like Wal-Mart capitalized on the craze with their low cost electric bike models. These days, gas prices have subsided and the economy is undergoing one of the worst recessions in years. But according to Craig and Jeremy Panizzoli of eCo Wheelz, Inc. (http://www.eco-wheelz.com), it hasn't slowed down sales of their electric bike and scooter models.

"Traffic continues to increase at our new retail store," said eCo Wheelz President and Founder, Jeremy Panizzoli. "Most people aren't even aware that these products exist when they come in, but as the word spreads, we're seeing growing interest as more and more people become educated about electric-powered bikes and scooters."

Located in Downtown Plymouth, MI, eCo Wheelz specializes in electric bikes, scooters and mopeds. Operating on 100% hybrid electric power, these products are eco-friendly and economical. With a range of 15 to 35 miles per charge (dependent on model), it costs less than a penny per mile to operate an electric bike or scooter. In comparison, the average automobile costs $0.51 per mile. For a commuter who travels 15-30 miles per day, the savings add up quickly and the cost of the bike - as low as $599 - can often be recovered within the first year.

The U.S. market for e-bikes continues to grow. Even with a struggling economy, 2009 is expected to be a banner year for electric bike sales, with projections of 170,000 units. Although this is a vast improvement over 2008, it pales in comparison to European and Asian markets where electric bikes have received widespread acceptance for years. But Panizzoli believes a bad economy and an uncertain economic outlook will be the driving force for continued growth in the year to come.

"With increased job loss and uncertainty in the air, consumers are looking for new ways to cutback and save. It's likely many people will be forced to give up their car or search for new ways to save money. Electric bikes provide an excellent alternative and can help struggling families and individuals during tough economic times. As the economy continues to suffer, its likely people will be searching for any opportunity to cutback. It's our job to make sure they know about our products and the bikes will sell themselves."

Although traffic is likely to slow down over the winter months, eCo Wheelz is expecting spring to be a huge success for their retail store. In the mean time, the eCo Wheelz website is up-and-running all year round and traffic continues to grow (even over the Winter) as consumers in warmer states search for their products online. Choose from a wide variety of electric bikes and scooters or install one of their electric bike kits.

To learn more about eCo Wheelz and see a full list products, visit:

http://www.eco-wheelz.com


Or, contact:

Jeremy Panizzoli
eCo Wheelz, Inc.
198 S. Main Street
Plymouth, MI 48170
(734)453-3359