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The Coventry-based Maeving, a UK electric motorcycle producer, has secured £8 million in new investment to enhance production, expedite international sales, and create new models targeted at commuters and female riders.
The firm, established in 2018 by college friends Seb Inglis-Jones and Will Stirrup, garnered support from venture capital organizations including Venrex, Future Planet Capital, and Elbow Beach Capital, along with angel investors such as John Ayton, co-founder of Links of London, and Simon Hill-Norton, founder of Sweaty Betty. Additionally, it has obtained a £3 million working capital line from HSBC UK.
Maeving exports approximately half of its bicycles to markets like France and Germany, with the US now its largest foreign market outside the UK. Sales to the US have surged fivefold thus far this year compared to 2024, despite disturbances from President Donald Trump’s tariff-induced trade conflict.
“The primary challenge for all producers exporting to the US has been the unpredictability for consumers,” noted Inglis-Jones. “If individuals feel uncertain about their finances, they are less inclined to spend on non-essential products.”
Motivated by the success of basic e-bikes in China featuring detachable batteries, the Maeving founders aimed to merge functionality with British craftsmanship and design at a premium price level. While Chinese versions may cost just a few hundred pounds, Maeving motorcycles commence at £4,995.
The company’s RM1 and RM1S models can cover up to 80 miles on a full charge, with batteries that recharge in under four hours for approximately 73p. Maeving estimates that powering an average UK commute of 11.4 miles daily costs just £4.20 per month in electricity.
Instead of pursuing traditional motorcycle enthusiasts, the brand focuses on new riders, especially commuters and urban residents seeking an alternative to overcrowded public transport. Weighing 140kg, Maeving bikes are lighter than most motorcycles, making them more approachable — particularly for women.
“Our clientele is often individuals who haven’t ridden many bikes before and have no connection to gasoline engines,” stated Inglis-Jones. “They’re not expecting vibration or noise. They desire something clean, straightforward, and user-friendly.”
Maeving employs 67 personnel, including 50 in production at its Coventry facility, which has the capability to manufacture up to 11,000 motorcycles annually. The UK is no longer recognized for large-scale manufacturing, Inglis-Jones remarked, “but motorcycle design remains one of the areas in which we are still respected globally.”
The company’s product leader, Graeme Gilbert, previously worked on new product innovation at Triumph, another British motorcycle brand.
With its newly acquired funding, Maeving intends to intensify its R&D efforts, increase marketing expenditures — particularly in international markets — and solidify its status as a new player in the electric mobility industry.
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