PopWheels is changing the food cart scene by replacing noisy generators with clean e-bike batteries, improving the dining experience.
PopWheels started when David Hammer, the CEO, wanted to try something new after his work at Google. They usually use their battery packs for food delivery bikes. Now they think connecting them to food carts is a good idea. Hammer said the key question is about solving distribution and charging, not just if e-bike packs are the best power source.
If food carts need more power, the owners can simply exchange the batteries during the day. PopWheels has set up 30 charging spots around Manhattan for e-bike users, allowing them to charge easily. Many delivery workers come from far away, often needing two batteries to last the day. Bodegas charge delivery workers $100 a month to use their e-bike charging services. With wear and tear, this can cost nearly $2,000 a year. However, PopWheels offers unlimited access to its system for $75 a month, and they have many customers waiting to sign up.
The charging cabinets hold 16 batteries and are built to stop fires if they occur. This focus on safety happens because electric bike fires were a big concern in New York City. Last year, PopWheels collected $2.3 million to help grow its solution, and they are now looking for other uses for their batteries.
Hammer realized food carts spend about $10 a day on gas to run generators. PopWheels can replace this with four batteries, which supply enough power for a food cart daily. If food carts need more electricity, they can visit a swap station. The startup tested their batteries at a large event last year, showing how they could work for food carts. One food cart owner was impressed by the quieter operation and wanted to switch.
PopWheels plans to expand this service starting this summer. They aim to offer a low-cost power solution while improving customers’ dining experiences.