Bosch e-Bike plots acquisition of COBI GmbH

Bosch’s e-Bike division has gone public with plans to acquire COBI, a connected display unit that has been popular with bike industry brands.

“The acquisition of COBI GmbH provides the ideal opportunity to expand the product portfolio of Bosch eBike Systems in the area of connected products and services. COBI offers the necessary expertise and experience, as well as the appropriate technologies for a successful partnership,” says Claus Fleischer, CEO of Bosch eBike Systems.

The parties have agreed not to disclose the acquisition price. The transaction is subject to the approval of the antitrust authorities.

Founded in 2014, COBI GmbH offers eBikers and cyclists the opportunity to use their smartphone as a control, infotainment and display unit. The system offers services such as navigation, music, telephone use and fitness tracking. COBI also connects the rider with other apps such as Strava, Komoot, Spotify, Apple Health and Bluetooth fitness sensors.

COBI’s offerings are largely aimed at the fast-growing digital target group which now uses the smartphone in many areas of daily life and also when cycling. COBI solves the issue of limited smartphone battery life and provides ease of use in a safe and comfortable manner while riding. In the background of the product portfolio, a technology platform of cloud, apps, services and firmware has evolved, which can be used in conjunction with existing Bosch systems for future digital solutions.

Founder and CEO of COBI, Andreas Gahlert, said: “With Bosch as a strategic partner, we see huge scope for worldwide growth in the area of digitally connected products and services in the bike environment. For us, this is undoubtedly a significant step into the future”.