Here we are, a year after the S3 and X3 launch. The pandemic is not yet over and there is also no new S4. What we do have is a further developed s3 and a new accessory which could change the way you ride and interact with your VanMoof.
So no new S4 this year, but VanMoof did improve the existing S3 model. The S3 2021 is not a completely different bike, but it has a few improvements that are worth mentioning.
If this is your first time reading about the VanMoof Electrified, you should check out my review of the Electrified S (2017). There i go into more detail about the design and connected features.
For an in-depth read of the VanMoof S3 check out my review of the S3 (2020).
First up is a new display. New darker foil in combination with a brighter display ensures more visibility in direct sunlight. I'm again testing the S3 light/blue (i love this colour) and this is the model that suffered the most in terms of display light.
On the dark S3 you could see the dots of the matrix display a lot better, but on the light it was hardly visible in some bright conditions. This has been greatly improved on the 2021 S3 and the contrast is now a lot better.
Then there is Apple's Find My integration. Apple recently opened up their Find My network accessory program to third-party device manufacturers to build products utilizing the service.
VanMoof is one of the first company's to work with the Find My app to let you locate and keep track of your VanMoof.
It's a useful feature that is more accurate then VanMoof's built in parking feature.
Other improvements to the 2021 S3 are new pedals with improved grip, electronic shifters that are more accurate and improved internal wiring for better weather resistance.
Oh and the design of the bike is still stunning, nothing really changed there 😁
Introducing the VanMoof PowerBank. The PowerBank is a range extender accessory that you install on the bike and that functions as an additional battery. It charges the internal battery while parked and even while riding the bike.
I think the PowerBank is really interesting. Since the beginning one of the common complaints about the electric VanMoof models is the absence of a removable battery.
Design wise an internal battery is a lot nicer. But from a practical point of view a removable battery ensures that you don't have to lift your 19 kg bike up the stairs to the second or third floor every time.
Now you have the best of both worlds. A sufficient internal battery and an additional battery you can take with you whenever you like.
You install the included dock on your bike and then click the PowerBank into place. You can secure the battery with the attached straps. The PowerBank automatically clicks in a lock which secures the PowerBank to the frame so you can't just lift it off the bike. You need to use the included key to remove the PowerBank.
The PowerBank can add about 70% to your battery so you can significantly increase you range. You can also use it to charge your bike while parked on the street when you don't want to lift your ride up the stairs in an apartment building.
Ride your bike to work, charge there, ride back home and charge your bike on the street.
Or take the PowerBank with you inside, install it the next day again and it charges while you ride to work.
Possibilities!
Let's talk about the design of the PowerBank. I think it complements the design of the bike nicely. It looks a bit like the chain bag of the S1. A triangular shape that fits perfectly into the bottom of the frame.
The velcro straps on the other hand don't deserve any real prices.
The velcro straps are practical though and are probably necessary to make the PowerBank compatible with last years S3 models.
But it would have been nicer if you could just click the PowerBank into place without having to extra secure it with the straps and end up with a rather prominent visible cable. Especially because VanMoof is known for hiding their cables in the frame.
Maybe the PowerBank for the S3's successor will be more enclosed with the frame.
Some other PowerBank specs include:
- The weight is 2.8 kg. It's not super heavy, but also not that light. You can still transport it in a backpack without too much effort though.
- The capacity is 378Wh. For reference, the internal battery of the S3 is 504Wh.
- VanMoof says the PowerBank brings you 1.75x extra distance. Which translate into an extra 45 km.
- Possible total distance: 105 km (when using full power mode) with PowerBank vs 60km without PowerBank.
- Charging the PowerBank takes 3 hours.
- Price €348.
There is no doubt that the S3 is still one of the best e-bikes in 2021. The updated 2021 edition and the new PowerBank make the choice even more valid. The engine power (even with head winds) and the feeling when pressing the boost button never get's old. And while the additional PowerBank isn't the same as having the main battery removable, it certainly makes for more convenient charging.
With the 2020 S3 that was released a year ago I complained the most about the visibility of the display. Since this is now fixed, nothing is really stopping you from getting this great combo. And the best thing is that if you already own an S3 or X3, you can also just buy the PowerBank as an accessory to extend your range or simplify charging.
If you're in the market for an S3 or X3, I wouldn't wait too long because the price might go up soon...
© 2026 Sjoerd Reitsma
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