Cambridge-based engineering company FLIT has raised FLIT secures $1.5 million in a new funding round to accelerate the production of its latest folding electric bike, the FLIT M2. The investment came from ACF Investors, Cambridge Angels, and Tony Purnell, the former Head of Technical Development at British Cycling. With the fresh capital, FLIT aims to expand its UK production capabilities and meet growing demand for lightweight, high-performance e-bikes designed for urban commuters.

Innovation in E-Bike Design

FLIT specializes in designing and manufacturing compact, portable electric bikes that seamlessly integrate battery and motor technology. The company’s flagship model, the FLIT M2, weighs just 14.5 kilograms and offers a range of up to 50 kilometers. With a focus on urban mobility, FLIT ensures its bikes are not only efficient and powerful but also easy to fold and carry, making them ideal for city dwellers seeking practical and sustainable transport options.

Aerospace-Grade Engineering

A standout feature of FLIT’s e-bikes is the innovative no-weld adhesive bonding technique used in their construction. This method, which is widely applied in the aerospace and automotive industries, enhances structural precision while reducing production times. Originally developed in response to supply chain disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic, the technique allows for a tighter, more compact fold and contributes to a one-kilogram weight reduction compared to traditionally welded frames.

Founders' Vision

Alex Murray, FLIT’s Managing Director and co-founder, highlighted the company’s commitment to redefining urban transport through cutting-edge engineering. He emphasized that FLIT’s approach differs from traditional e-bike manufacturers, as their models are built from the ground up to integrate both folding and electric capabilities. By leveraging aerospace-grade bonding techniques, the company has eliminated the distortions caused by welding, resulting in a lighter, stronger, and more compact design that enhances portability and ride quality.

Investor Confidence

Tim Mills, Managing Partner at ACF Investors, expressed confidence in FLIT’s potential to make a significant impact in the growing e-bike market. He praised the team’s combination of advanced engineering expertise and a deep understanding of urban mobility needs. According to Mills, FLIT’s unique design and manufacturing approach position the company well for expansion, and ACF Investors is eager to support its journey as it scales production and reaches more riders across the UK.

From Concept to Reality

FLIT’s journey began when co-founders Alex Murray and Dave Henderson met while studying in Beijing in 2015. Their experiences using electric bikes to navigate the city sparked their interest in sustainable urban transport. Henderson, an ex-Jaguar Land Rover engineer, and Murray, a transport policy expert, later moved to Cambridge, where they transformed their early sketches into a practical and efficient folding e-bike designed from scratch.

Future Outlook

The latest funding follows an Innovate UK grant awarded to FLIT in 2023, which supported the company’s research and development efforts. With production of the FLIT M2 already underway at its Cambridge facility, the new capital will further streamline manufacturing processes and accelerate deliveries. The company’s commitment to innovation and customer support ensures that urban commuters receive a high-quality product tailored to modern transportation needs.

As FLIT scales its operations, it continues to prioritize sustainability, convenience, and performance in its product development. By integrating advanced engineering techniques and customer-focused design, the company aims to make cycling more accessible and enjoyable for city residents. With strong investor backing and a growing market for e-bikes, FLIT is well-positioned to lead the next generation of urban mobility solutions.