Rivian spinoff Also wants to reinvent the wheel — but first, it has to ship

The cost of high-performance compute components for custom e-bike designs may rise as demand from AI servers intensifies.

Also, a micromobility brand spun off from Rivian, is now shipping its TM-B modular e-bike to customers after facing supply chain challenges. The company, led by Chris Yu, designs its components in-house, leading to difficulties competing for parts like ICs and PCBA materials with the AI server industry. Also had to requalify and resource components due to global shortages. Additionally, the brand collaborated with UL to develop new certification standards for its unique high-power-density, software-defined battery with USB-C charging and regenerative braking capabilities. Despite initial delays and some customer frustration on Reddit over communication gaps, Also is ramping up production for standard and performance trims, having experienced very few cancellations due to strong customer demand and positive test rides.

Also's experience highlights a growing conflict for specialized hardware manufacturers: the intense demand for semiconductors and raw materials from the burgeoning AI industry is directly impacting their ability to source critical components. This competition forces companies like Also to invest significant resources in requalifying alternative parts or redesigning systems, delaying product launches and increasing costs. The situation suggests a broader trend where consumer electronics, even those as seemingly distinct as e-bikes, are now intertwined with the supply chains of cutting-edge computing infrastructure.

The successful navigation of regulatory ambiguity for Also's advanced battery system through direct collaboration with UL sets a precedent for innovative hardware. It demonstrates a path for manufacturers of novel devices to proactively engage with certification bodies to establish new standards, rather than being stalled by undefined areas. This approach, while time-consuming, ensures compliance and can accelerate the adoption of future technologies that push the boundaries of existing product categories.