In what is unlikely to become a new trend but really should anyway, Ampler Bikes has just unveiled the world’s first production electric bicycles that feature recharging via USB-C, allowing riders to share the same charger they already use for their laptop computers.
The Estonian-based electric bicycle company Ampler, which shares its high-tech lineage with the connected mobility company Comodule and the equally tech-forward Äike electric scooter company, announced the new Nova and Nova Pro e-bikes this morning.
In a world increasingly defined by convenience and connectivity, Ampler has taken a bold step into the future of urban mobility, hopefully dragging the rest of the industry with it, even if they must come kicking and screaming. Ampler has been known for its minimalist designs and hand-built craftsmanship, despite those simple designs hiding away impressive technology inside. Now the Nova and Nova Pro are building even further upon that legacy with the introduction of USB-C recharging.
Yes, you read that right: USB-C. The same connector you use to charge your laptop or smartphone can now power your electric bike. It’s a move that could set a new standard in the e-bike industry—and one that also happens to be perfectly timed with the EU’s upcoming 2026 directive mandating USB-C charging across electronic devices. However, it is unclear how many e-bike makers would actually adopt the charging protocol.
While the Nova and Nova Pro maintain Ampler’s signature understated style and lightweight builds, they come loaded with thoughtful upgrades aimed squarely at modern riders. The headline feature, of course, is the embedded USB-C charging port, which allows you to charge the bike with a standard 140W laptop charger. A quick 2.5-hour top-up is enough for most daily rides, and a full charge takes about 3.5 hours.
Even more impressively, the charging system works both ways. Not only can you power the bike with USB-C, but the bike itself can charge smaller devices like your phone—essentially turning the Nova into a mobile power bank on wheels.
The shift away from bulky, proprietary chargers is a welcome one, especially for city dwellers, commuters, and anyone who’s ever had to haul an awkward brick-shaped charger across town. It’s also a win for sustainability. According to Ampler, an estimated 11,000 tons of e-waste are generated each year from unused or discarded chargers. USB-C helps cut that down by embracing a universal standard that riders already carry in their bags.
As for the bikes themselves, the Nova and Nova Pro share Ampler’s clean, commuter-friendly design language but cater to slightly different riders.
The base model Nova is built for urban cruising, with wide 27.5” tires and a 9-speed MicroSHIFT drivetrain. It’s designed for comfort, stability, and simplicity—ideal for those dipping their toes into the e-bike world or just looking for a no-fuss daily rider.
Meanwhile, the Nova Pro is the more performance-oriented sibling, featuring 28” sportier wheels, and a choice between a low-maintenance Gates Carbon belt drivetrain or a 10-speed Shimano Deore drivetrain. The Nova Pro is said to be aimed at riders who want to go farther and faster, whether on longer commutes or weekend adventures.
Both models come in high-step and low-step frame options, with a range of sizes to accommodate different rider heights and preferences. The frames are designed to be modular and customizable, with compatibility for everything from racks and fenders to child seats and trailers.
Ampler also put a strong emphasis on serviceability. The bikes use standard components from well-known brands like Shimano, MicroSHIFT, Gates, Panaracer, and Selle Italia—making them easy to repair at virtually any bike shop across Europe or by owners with a bit of wrench-turning experience.
Production takes place in Ampler’s own Tallinn, Estonia-based factory, which runs entirely on renewable energy. That local, low-impact manufacturing approach further underlines the company’s long-standing commitment to sustainability.
The Nova lineup is also part of a broader shift at Ampler toward inclusivity. Newly appointed CEO Eva Raigo is putting women riders and families at the center of the brand’s 2025 vision, noting, “E-bikes need to reflect the diversity of their riders, and it’s time we see more women not only riding but also designing these bikes.”
Other notable features include GPS tracking and ride analytics through the Ampler app, smart ride settings, a weatherproof frame and screen, and compatibility with leasing programs like JobRad. Pricing starts at €2,990 for the Nova and €3,490 for the Nova Pro, with orders opening on April 1 and deliveries beginning in June 2025.
Electrek’s Take
Freakin’ FINALLY! I’ve literally been calling for this for years. I’ve actually begged e-bike companies to do this. No one would listen. We had to go all the way to Estonia to finally find a company brave enough to buck the easy route of choosing a battery and charger from some Chinese company’s catalog and instead develop their own alternative that can include the most accessible, standardized form of charging on the planet for consumer electronics.
Whether you buy one or not, we ALL owe Ampler a debt of gratitude for showing the industry that this is possible.
Now let’s get to the bikes. Universal charging, sleek design, easy maintenance, and inclusive appeal all wrapped into a stylish, made-in-Europe package. Sure thing, sign me up! The North American market may not be impressed with the specs, but for Europeans, these bikes have a lot going for them! If I can get one here in Tel Aviv, I’d ride the hell out of it.
And the prices are even quite reasonable for a made-in-Europe e-bike, especially one with features like GPS tracking and USB-C charging. I’ve actually visited Ampler’s factory in Estonia before and I’ve seen the dedication they put into building their e-bikes. If I lived in Europe, I’d throw down a few grand on one of these easily.
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