[DigitalToday reporter Jinju Hong (홍진주)] E-bike brand Tern has unveiled a new compact cargo electric bike, the HSD, aimed at replacing short car trips in cities. The new model improves the frame structure and increases carrying capacity, while adopting Bosch’s latest electric drive system to enhance everyday mobility and usability.

On July 15 (local time), mobility outlet BikeBiz reported that Tern has introduced the new HSD as an e-bike that is smaller and easier to handle than existing cargo bikes while offering high carrying capacity.

The new HSD keeps a size similar to a standard bicycle while using a newly designed frame. Tern said it applied a new frame structure with a longer wheelbase and lower centre of gravity, along with geometry optimised for cargo hauling, to deliver stable riding and predictable steering even with luggage or passengers. The rider height range has been expanded to 150 cm to 205 cm to accommodate users of various builds.

Carrying capacity has also been significantly improved. The new HSD supports a maximum gross vehicle weight (GVW) of 190 kg, and the rear rack can carry up to 80 kg. It is designed to transport a range of loads depending on configuration, including children and adult passengers, pets and grocery shopping.

Josh Hon, Tern team captain, said: "Cargo bikes are a very effective way to replace short car trips." He said the company focused on creating a high-load model that can be ridden as easily as a regular bicycle by addressing the size, weight and handling difficulty of existing cargo bikes.

The drivetrain has been upgraded to Bosch’s fifth-generation electric system. Tern said the new system is lighter and quieter than the previous generation while delivering strong performance. The electric system has obtained UL 2849 safety certification, and a recent Bosch software update also supports a battery lock and theft reporting function.

Some higher-end models also add electronic automatic shifting. The HSD S9i combines Bosch eShift with a 3X3 NINE internal gear hub and a Gates belt drive, while the HSD P10e pairs Bosch eShift with a TRP drivetrain to support an automatic shifting mode suitable for city riding.

Tern said it focused on developing the new HSD into an everyday means of transport rather than simply a cargo-hauling bicycle.

Convenience features for urban living have also been maintained. The new HSD continues to support vertical parking for upright storage and elevator transport, as well as a flat-fold function that improves space efficiency. This design is intended to reduce the storage burden, cited as the biggest drawback of large cargo bikes.

The accessory lineup has also been expanded. Tern introduced various dedicated accessories for family mobility, cargo hauling and coping with bad weather. Additions include the improved Clubhouse Mini passenger frame, the Storm Box Mini rear cargo box, the Sun Shield Mini canopy, the Rain Shield Mini cover, the Sidekick Footrest and the HardShell Huller lockable storage box.

The new HSD lineup consists of four models. Prices start at $4,999 in the United States, 4,899 euros in Europe and 4,300 pounds in the UK. In Europe and North America, it will be sold through specialist bicycle stores from late summer 2026, while other regions are set for a phased rollout through the end of this year. Tern said models and prices by country may vary depending on market conditions.