The concept of an electric bicycle dates back to the 19th century. One of the earliest electric bicycles was created by Thomas Davenport, an American inventor, in the 1860s. However, it wasn't until the late 19th and early 20th centuries that electric bicycles gained more attention and development.

In the 1890s, various inventors and companies, such as Hosea W. Libbey and Ogden Bolton Jr., patented electric bicycles or related technologies. These early electric bicycles were often powered by non-rechargeable batteries and had limited practicality.

The development of electric bicycles continued throughout the 20th century, but it wasn't until more recent years, with advancements in battery technology and electric motor efficiency, that electric bicycles became more popular and practical for everyday use. The modern electric bicycle industry has seen significant growth and innovation, with various models and designs available to consumers.