NTN EUROPE Develops Secure Bike Station

NTN EUROPE S.A. (hereafter, NTN EUROPE, headquarter in Annecy, France), a consolidated subsidiary of NTN Corporation (hereafter NTN), which is a designer and manufacturer of precision mechanics, specializing in the development, manufacturing, and sales of bearings in the European market, has introduced a new secure bike station-a multifunctional facility designed for bike storage, battery recharging. Through providing this product, we will promote usage of bikes, a form of soft mobility that is considered an environmentally friendly means of transportation to contribute to further reduction of environmental impact.

NTN promotes carbon neutrality in its business activities to realize a sustainable society as a manufacturing company and provides products and services that contribute to the global environment, such as bearings that reduce friction and save energy, in a wide range of fields including the automotive industry. In the field of bikes, we have contributed to the development of the market by providing bearings with excellent low torque characteristics for various parts such as wheels for bikes including electrical bikes.

European governments promote cycling as an alternative mode of transportation to fight climate change and urban traffic congestion. As an example, the French government aims to increase bike usage from the current 5% to 12% by 2030, supported by initiatives such as exclusive bike lanes. However, challenges like bike theft and limited service points for cyclists remain pressing concerns.

The secure bike station developed by NTN EUROPE addresses these issues with an innovative, compact, and secure storage system. Bikes are stored upright in individual rotating slots to prevent theft and deterioration. The station incorporates NTN's advanced technologies, including bearings and high-precision angle control sensors. Accessible via a dedicated smartphone app, users can reserve a slot in advance, ensuring safe and convenient storage upon arrival. Optional features include electric bike battery recharging, repair tools, and changing facilities. The first unit was recently installed in the suburbs of Geneva, Switzerland, for a French customer. Commuters use the station to store bikes, driving to the site by car and completing the final leg of their journey within Geneva by bike. This solution not only reduces traffic congestion in the Geneva area but also lowers CO2 emissions, offering a sustainable and comfortable commuting option.

NTN EUROPE plans to market the secure bike station to local governments and companies as a practical solution for reducing carbon emissions and alleviating urban traffic congestion.

NTN Group aims to address societal challenges and reduce environmental impact, fostering a more sustainable future by providing products and services that contribute to the global environment in a wide range of fields.