U.S. electric bicycle maker Ride1Up has launched the second-generation Portola 02 folding e-bike, keeping core performance while upgrading its pedal-assist system, battery choices, cargo configurations and electronics. The bike starts at $895. Buyers can choose 10Ah or 15Ah LG batteries, with up to 60 miles of range on the larger pack. Options include removable or frame-integrated rear racks, plus a larger color display and location tracking.

Pouch-type batteries are drawing renewed interest in defense and robotics as battery companies expand beyond slowing EV demand into sectors such as energy storage. The format offers high energy density and design flexibility but has faced concerns about rapid heat transfer between cells during thermal runaway. With all-solid-state solutions still years away, competition is shifting to external safety materials such as thermal barriers. Demand is also emerging from submarines and robots, though high material costs remain a hurdle for mass adoption.