A California-based startup Morelle is developing an ebike that can fully charge in under 15 minutes. Backed by mountain bike pioneer Gary Fisher, a legendary figure in the cycling world, Morelle’s approach could shift how both consumers and industries think about battery-powered mobility.
A quick scan of the current ebike market reveals that charging typically takes several hours, with some models managing to push that time closer to two. But whether it’s two or six, it’s a far cry from the sub-15-minute goal that Morelle is setting. The company is preparing a 350-Wh battery pack, integrated discreetly within the bike’s down tube, that can be fully recharged in just minutes.
This unprecedented speed is made possible through Morelle’s use of silicon anode battery technology, a chemistry already being explored in sectors like electric vehicles and consumer electronics. Unlike traditional graphite anodes, silicon offers ten times the energy capacity, allowing for far greater energy density and vastly improved charging times. Of course, silicon anodes have long been known for their downside: they tend to expand and contract during operation, which can cause degradation and shorten battery life. But Morelle claims that its design addresses this issue, ensuring not only speed but also durability across 1,000 charge cycles.
Morelle’s system includes advanced hardware and software within its chargers, which allows for real-time diagnostics and automatic optimization of charging protocols. This smart system is designed to stretch the battery’s life even further, adjusting to wear and use over time.
In terms of charging classification, Morelle is proposing a new framework for micromobility power levels. While today’s ebikes charge at relatively slow rates between 100 and 300 watts, Morelle’s battery system supports 1,000 to over 1,500 watts, dubbed “M2” and “M3” charging levels respectively. The “M” stands for “micromobility,” distinguishing these levels from the more powerful automotive EV charging infrastructure. To support this fast-charging system, Morelle plans to build out dedicated charging locations based on user behavior, as well as retrofit existing Level 2 EV charging stations with ebike-compatible hardware.
While the charging tech is clearly the headline, Morelle has also paid close attention to the bike itself. The design focuses on creating a sleek, minimalistic urban commuter that weighs in at around 30 pounds (13.6 kg). This puts it right on the threshold between lightweight and ultra-lightweight, making it ideal for city use. The bike will be equipped with a high-torque mid-drive motor, capable of delivering pedal assistance at speeds up to 28 mph (45 km/h). Although the specific motor brand and range specs haven’t been revealed yet, the combination of a high-efficiency battery and low overall weight suggests the bike will be well-suited for most urban rides without range anxiety.
Morelle acknowledges that a 15-minute charge may not be necessary for all users. For many riders, traditional overnight or in-home charging may still suffice. However, the flexibility to charge quickly while out and about — whether during a coffee break or a short stop brings a new level of convenience that current ebikes simply can’t match.
Importantly, Morelle’s ambitions don’t stop with bicycles. The company sees strong potential for its fast-charging system in the field of untethered robotics, where downtime due to slow recharging or battery swapping can hinder productivity. With the ability to quickly charge and resume tasks, robots equipped with Morelle’s system could become more efficient and autonomous. The company also hints at further applications in non-pedaled micromobility devices, such as scooters, where quick recharging could offer clear advantages.
The first wave of Morelle ebikes is expected to arrive in early 2026, with a starting price of $3,000. Interested customers can already place a fully refundable $50 reservation to secure one of the early production units.