In a world where electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular, it’s no surprise that the Tesla Model Y and Model 3 are the best-selling EVs in the United States. But what if I told you that the third best-selling electric vehicle in America isn’t a car at all? It’s actually an electric bike!

Yes, you read that right. The Lectric XP 3.0 e-bike is the surprising champion that’s secured its place as the third best-selling EV in the nation.

And to be honest, it’s not even close. As the company explained, “In 2023, Lectric helped electrify more Americans than Ford, Volkswagen, Hyundai, Rivian, Lucid, BMW, and Porsche combined.”

That might sound surprising, but those in the e-bike industry will likely already know that the Lectric XP 3.0 has been a runaway success. While the company doesn’t list exact sales figures, we know that its best-selling model, the XP 3.0, handily secured the spot of third best-selling EV in the US. And of course its significantly more affordable price of just $999 didn’t hurt its placement on the list, either.

“Lectric eBikes is one of the fastest-growing electric bike companies in America, selling more than 400,000 eBikes in its first 4 years,” the company continued. “Most of this growth is powered by the success of Lectric’s most popular electric bike, the Lectric XP, which is the third most popular EV in America behind only the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y.”

Third best-selling electric vehicle in the US is an e-bike

The Tesla Model Y and Model 3 took the two top spots for 2023 at 394,497 and 220,910 units sold, respectively. And while we don’t know exactly how many XP 3.0 electric bikes were sold last year due to Lectric being a private public, it was likely in the high five figures. Lectric’s total of over 400,000 sales from 2019 to 2023 includes its first year with minimal numbers while it was still ramping up production. Those sales figures also include several other models from Lectric, though the XP 3.0 is by far the company’s biggest mover.

For comparison, the fourth spot on the list of best-selling EVs in the US, the Chevy Bolt EV/EUV, sold just over 62,045 units in 2023.

The rise of the Lectric XP 3.0

The Lectric XP 3.0 has quickly become a favorite among Americans, thanks to its impressive features and affordable price point. The folding fat tire e-bike offers a unique combination of power, versatility, and convenience, making it an ideal choice for urban commuters and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

With its 500W motor (outputting closer to 1,000W peak), multiple battery size options, and fat tire design, the Lectric XP 3.0 is well-equipped to handle a variety of terrains and riding conditions.

Why the Lectric XP 3.0 is outselling traditional EVs

Several factors likely contributed to the Lectric XP 3.0’s unexpected rise to the top of the EV charts. First and foremost, its affordability sets it apart from its four-wheeled counterparts. While a new Tesla will set you back tens of thousands of dollars, the $999 Lectric XP 3.0 comes in at a fraction of the cost, making it accessible to a wider range of consumers.

Additionally, the convenience and versatility of electric bikes make them an attractive option for many. The Lectric XP 3.0’s folding design allows for easy storage and transport, making it perfect for city dwellers with limited space. Its ability to tackle both urban streets and off-road trails adds to its appeal, providing riders with a flexible and enjoyable mode of transportation.

The last several years have seen an increasing number of drivers becoming riders as e-bikes have grown in popularity as car alternatives. While some commuters have completely gotten rid of their cars in favor of e-bikes, many more have found that an e-bike can be a great supplement to a car, replacing it for common local trips. That leaves the car for longer journeys or situations with more passengers or cargo needs. Though there too, cargo variants of the Lectric XP 3.0 with a rear passenger bench or cargo baskets have proven popular for both roles.

The environmental impact

Another significant factor driving the popularity of the Lectric XP 3.0 is its positive environmental impact. As more people become conscious of their carbon footprint, electric bikes offer a greener alternative to traditional cars and motorcycles.

By choosing an e-bike, drivers who become riders can reduce their reliance on fossil fuels and contribute to a more sustainable future.

A new era of transportation

The success of the Lectric XP 3.0 and the growth of e-bikes as a whole signifies a shift in the way Americans view transportation. Sure, it may only be a game of catchup to Europe and Asia, but just because America is late to the game doesn’t make it any less important.

As urban centers become more congested and the demand for eco-friendly alternatives grows, electric bikes are poised to play a crucial role in the future of mobility. The Lectric XP 3.0’s impressive sales figures are a testament to the growing acceptance and enthusiasm for this mode of transport.