// startup autopsy
Clean Mobile
Electric mobility pioneer that ran out of charge before the market sparked
timingAcqui-hire
Fatal mistake: Launched consumer electric vehicle products before charging infrastructure, battery economics, and consumer awareness made mass adoption financially viable.
Key Events Timeline
FOUNDING
Clean Mobile founded in Germany to develop electric mobility solutions including e-bikes and light electric vehicles.
FUNDING
Raised early venture funding to develop electric vehicle hardware and begin pilot programs in German cities.
PRODUCT LAUNCH
Launched consumer e-bike and light EV product line in Germany amid nascent EV market awareness.
FUNDING
Closed final funding round totaling $16.19M as company sought scale; EV consumer adoption remained slower than projected.
SHUTDOWN
Acquired by larger mobility player after failing to achieve sustainable unit economics in the pre-mainstream EV market.