Upway

In 2021, Toussaint Wattinne and Stéphane Ficaja, both former Uber executives, noticed a significant problem in the electric bike market: high-quality e-bikes were prohibitively expensive for many riders, and purchasing pre-owned bikes came with too much uncertainty and risk. Determined to solve both issues, they founded Upway to create a trusted marketplace where riders could access professionally refurbished electric bikes at up to 60% off retail prices.

Upway's innovative approach involves sourcing pre-owned e-bikes from individuals, retailers, rental fleets, and manufacturer returns. Each bike then undergoes rigorous inspection and certification by professional mechanics at their 'UpCenters' before being offered for sale. The company has grown rapidly from its French origins to operate in nine countries across Europe and North America, with workshops in Paris, Berlin, New York, and expanding locations. In just three years, Upway has refurbished over 100,000 e-bikes with an ambitious goal of reaching 1 million by 2030. The company's mission is to make sustainable e-mobility accessible to everyone while reducing electronic waste.