[Digital Today reporter Jinju Hong (홍진주)] U.S. e-bike company Lectric has launched a new urban commuter e-bike, the XPress Lite, at $1,099 (about 1.47 million won). It cuts weight and price from a popular existing model and stresses practicality for commuting and everyday travel.

Electrek, an electric vehicle outlet, reported on Oct. 13 local time that the XPress Lite is designed to be lighter and cheaper than Lectric's existing XPress 2 model. It weighs about 20.7 kg excluding the battery, targeting riders who need to load it into a vehicle or carry it up stairs.

The powertrain is based on a 500W rear hub motor. Peak output is 864W, and torque tops 61 Nm. It pairs an 8-speed Shimano Altus drivetrain with a proprietary torque sensor to secure riding performance and ease of control.

It also lets riders choose between torque-sensor and cadence-sensor modes through the Xperience Switch feature. Users can select settings that either provide assistance naturally in line with pedalling force or enable a more relaxed ride based on pedal rotation.

Riding modes can be set to Class 1, 2 or 3 depending on local regulations, and pedal assist can be adjusted across five levels. A thumb-operated paddle-style throttle sits under the handlebar. The bike uses hydraulic disc brakes, and 27.5-inch puncture-resistant urban tyres are filled with sealant from the factory.

The battery capacity was set as a compromise to lower price and weight. A 7.8Ah battery has a total capacity of 375Wh and delivers a maximum range of about 72 km on pedal assist. Actual range can vary depending on the assist level, terrain, rider weight and speed.

Convenience features include a 3.5-inch colour TFT display and a rear light that integrates brake and turn-signal functions. Both the complete bike and the battery have UL certification. It comes in four colours: Toasted Marshmallow, Pine Green, Glacier White and Stratus White, and uses a mid-step frame designed for easier mounting and dismounting. It also supports accessories including a rear rack, fenders, panniers, a suspension seatpost, a mirror and a phone mount.

The new model shows Lectric's product strategy of prioritising portability and price competitiveness over high output and large battery capacity. After growing on the back of its folding XP series, Lectric has expanded its lineup to include cargo bikes, three-wheel models, full-size commuter bikes and lightweight folding models.

Rather than continually raising the price and specifications of its main models, it is broadening choices by adding products at various price points and for different uses. It has also diversified its lineup by introducing a premium brand, Monarch, featuring high-end parts and higher performance.

The XPress Lite fills commuter demand that puts price accessibility at the centre of this lineup expansion strategy. It targets users who want a relatively light body and everyday riding performance rather than models with bigger motors, larger batteries and thicker tyres.

With a price of $1,099, a body weight of about 20.7 kg and a maximum range of about 72 km, the XPress Lite is expected to target consumers seeking to use an e-bike for commuting and everyday transportation.