Bear in mind that electrical bike model referred to as SONDORS – the one which confirmed off a mannequin referred to as the MetaCycle?
Given just a few delays with the corporate, we had been initially doubtful as to the bike’s debut; sadly, whereas the MetaCycle’s arrival is now confirmed and the mannequin is now within the arms of many a succesful rider, there are nonetheless just a few nitty-gritties that SONDORS as an organization will likely be coping with over the flip of the yr.
Spoiler: It ain’t prettty, so brace yourselves.
In response to Punya Sharma at High Velocity, SONDORS’ producer lies in China, the place the companion has revealed that they’ve over 500 MetaCycles primed, prettied and able to go (plus sufficient elements for 1,500 extra)… however they’re not releasing them anytime quickly.
The issue?
Apparently, SONDORS hasn’t paid their producer since 2022. Right here’s an excerpt from Sharma’s protection:
The manufacturing facility experiences the EV firm hasn’t paid its payments for over a yr. Solely a prepayment for the preliminary 2,000-unit order was made in June 2022, following which the remainder of the quantity stays unpaid thus far.”
– Punya Sharma (High Velocity)
This information follows on the heels of rumors pointing to an eventual class-action lawsuit (Electrek) and an additional, slightly revealing replace on Google Maps displaying the SONDORS headquarters to now be completely closed.
See under:
The place does this go away the MetaCyclists who had been capable of come up with their very own orders?
We find out about as a lot as you do, however the above information imply it is perhaps a good suggestion to:
- Watch out together with your MetaCycle, seeing as components will possible be unavailable for some time
- Preserve an ear to the bottom for any lawsuits that may make allowance for a full (and even partial) refund
- Preserve a watch out for info from others who acquired a MetaCycle (pretty people like Cara Pellegrini, who was so variety as submit a MetaCycle Journey Assessment for us)
Backside line, SONDORS has all the time appeared to profit from a tough scenario, whether or not it’s been the intricacies of working throughout lockdowns, managing with provide shortages or just working with delayed deadlines.We agree with Micah Toll on Electrek with the under phrase:
… we’ve by no means seen SONDORS dance this near midnight, and the music could be very near going out.”
– Micah Toll (Electrek)
SONDORS has but to launch something confirming they’re tapping out, so keep tuned for updates throughout this time.
What do you consider SONDORS’ MetaCycle? Would you prefer to see one other model take the mannequin on to hold ahead the machine’s potential?
