Rivian spinoff Also to start delivering e-bikes after months of delays

Rivian's spinoff, Also, is set to begin delivering its first e-bikes to customers next week, marking a major milestone after months of delays linked to supply chain challenges. The Launch Edition of the TM-B e-bike, priced at $4,500, has begun shipping from its manufacturer to the company’s U.S.-based warehouse. All Launch Edition units are expected to be delivered between next week and September, according to the company. Also originated as a secret project within Rivian in 2022, initiated by CEO RJ Scaringe as part of his strategy to expand into electric vehicles tailored for outdoor enthusiasts. The company spent several years refining the concept, even engaging Jony Ive’s design firm LoveFrom for early design work, as first reported by TechCrunch in 2025. In March 2025, Rivian officially spun off Also as an independent entity, securing $105 million in funding from Eclipse. The startup unveiled its first e-bike, the TM-B, in October of the previous year. Initially aiming for a spring 2026 launch, the company faced setbacks due to supply chain disruptions, pushing the delivery window to July. In June, Also acknowledged the impact of global supply chain pressures on its operations. A surge in demand for raw materials and electronic components affected key parts necessary for the TM-B, delaying the manufacturing ramp-up and extending the initial delivery timeline. The company emphasized that its engineering and production teams were working intensively to address these issues without compromising safety or quality. However, specific components responsible for the delay remained undisclosed. Beyond the TM-B, Also has ambitious plans to develop four-wheel pedal-assist cargo vehicles for Amazon and an autonomous delivery vehicle for DoorDash. For now, however, the company must prioritize fulfilling orders for its first e-bikes while managing the logistical complexities of launching new products. Customer service has become a focal point, particularly as some users expressed frustration over inconsistent communication regarding shipment timelines. On the final day of July, multiple customers shared their experiences in a Reddit thread under the r/ALSOmicromobility community. One user criticized the company for repeatedly setting unrealistic shipment deadlines without providing clear updates. Another joked about the remaining hours in July, hoping for an update. Others were less forgiving, with one customer stating they had canceled their reservation due to impatience. The situation highlights the broader challenges faced by companies entering the e-mobility sector, where supply chain volatility and customer expectations can create significant pressure. As Also moves forward, the success of its initial deliveries could play a crucial role in shaping its future in the competitive market for sustainable transportation solutions.