Recently, there have been changes in the Shanghai electric (bicycle) sales market. According to reports from the media, there seems to be a wave of “store closure tide” happening. Some businesses have admitted that they are facing a dilemma of “unable to sell old standard bikes, unable to bring in new standard bikes” in anticipation of the upcoming full implementation date of the new national standard for electric bicycles.
In recent days, there has been a phenomenon of collective closure of electric bicycle sales outlets in Shanghai, with some businesses openly stating that the situation has lasted for over a week. Some businesses have mentioned that around 90% of the sales outlets are currently closed.
Photos taken by the media in the area also show that many stores have their doors tightly shut.
According to a report from “Qilu Evening News,” the primary reason for this wave of closures is the upcoming implementation of the new Chinese electric bicycle standard in December. Businesses are facing the dilemma of “unable to sell old stock, unable to bring in new models,” and as a result, some have chosen to close down and put up a “temporary closed” sign.
The new “Electric Bicycle Safety Technical Specification” (referred to as the new standard) has been effective since September 1 of this year, with a transition period: the sale of old standard bikes is allowed until November 30, 2025, and from December 1, the sale of old standard bikes will be completely suspended.
Faced with the approaching “deadline,” many businesses have chosen to close down to avoid risks. They are concerned that if they sell old stock bikes that do not meet the new standard, consumers may face difficulties in licensing the vehicles, leading to a wave of returns. Businesses themselves may also face hefty fines for selling violations.
This uncertainty has led to a temporary “supply vacuum” and the collective closure of stores in the market, where old bikes are not being sold, and the supply of new bikes is inadequate.
Traditional brands such as Yadea and Aima, as well as emerging brands like Niu and Ninebot, have not yet brought large-scale stocks of new standard models to the market.
Helplessly, businesses say, “Closing may mean losing a month’s rent, but if you stay open, you might face fines if inspected, and who knows how much you’ll be fined.” In the face of uncertain risks, closing down has become the only choice for businesses.
However, there have been different responses in the market. Jiemu News reported on November 26 that they visited several electric vehicle stores in Shanghai and found that many are still operating normally, but with varying business situations. Some stores have already displayed the new standard electric bicycles for sale. There are also stores selling old standard bikes. At the same time, some businesses are actively clearing inventory and planning to discontinue electric vehicle sales next year, indicating the significant pressure and transformation willingness faced by some small and medium-sized businesses during the standard transition period.
Overall, as the deadline of December 1 approaches, the electric bicycle market in Shanghai is undergoing a critical reshuffle and transformation.