Today we want to take you behind the scenes of Qeridoo product development. How does such a new model actually emerge? Using the example of our QUPA we show you which steps are necessary until you at some point have the agony of choice in the shop
The creation of the QUPA was shaped above all by one thought: how do we manage to develop a new and affordable bicycle trailer that everyone can afford, where our customers don't have to do without safety or comfort?
That was in summer 2020, and our team of boss, engineers and designers cared above all about the following must-haves:
"A trailer in such an affordable price segment with such suspension is unique. Because no one at Qeridoo should have to do without such great suspension."
It should be light yet stable, of course easier and better to carry, especially for moms – but at the same time it should be able to transport even more weight.
The development team often stood around all the plans, sketches, lists and requirements and asked themselves: "How is this supposed to work?" But it worked, for every problem we found a solution and bit by bit a new product emerged, with great ideas and proven Qeridoo product and safety functions. Once again it benefited us that the entire Qeridoo development and design department works together on site in Germany. An idea over coffee in the hallway, agreements in the parking lot just before quitting time, a quick look at a new feature after lunch – that's innovation made in Germany in practice.
Not least, the timeline was also a tough nut to crack: when is the optimal time for the launch of the new child bicycle trailer? How much time does the development actually need until production starts? And how much then for production afterwards? Our goal was quickly clear: the QUPA should hit the market on time for the 2022 season.
Countless questions had to be answered and details clarified until everyone was satisfied with the result.
This is where the work really started: with dedication to every little detail, the QUPA was developed further and further. We changed the design, made adjustments to the function buttons, examined the seating system again and again, until we were finally completely satisfied. Then the big moment came: we stood happily in front of a prototype of our QUPA thought through to the last detail!
Off to the internal test bench, was the next stage for the new child sport stroller. Lengthy tests on heart and soul, or brake and wheel, were on the agenda. For us, the specifications and guidelines according to which our child sport strollers are tested and certified are decisive.
How does the QUPA behave on uneven paths? How at higher speeds? Essential information that was collected – because as you know, nothing is more important to us at Qeridoo than your safety! Then finally it was time to go out: into the wild and test under live conditions!
The child sport stroller was hitched to the bicycle and went over sticks and stones. What do we notice? How does it perform on the roadway? How does it behave in curves? Are the little passengers sitting comfortably in the QUPA?
After we were completely happy with all its driving and transport characteristics, the inspection and approval in the hallowed halls of TÜV Rheinland was next. A very important moment for us! Did we miss something? Are we as good as we think?
The answer was yes, and the QUPA mastered the TÜV inspection with flying colors – the starting signal for production had been given. The drawings were released, the materials purchased and the machines started up.
After almost two years of development and production, the QUPA was listed with our dealers, and since then the Qeridoo family member has been on adventures with you.
How is a new bicycle trailer model created? We show you using the example of our QUPA:
Summer 2020: idea to develop an affordable bicycle trailer that is safe and comfortable
Autumn 2020: first sketches are created by our product design department
Winter 2020: a prototype of the QUPA is manufactured
Spring 2021: the child bicycle trailer is tested on the internal test rig as well as by TÜV
Winter 2021: the first models of the QUPA are produced
Spring 2022: after two years of development and production time, the Qeridoo QUPA comes to market
A prototype is a first physical sample of a new product. It is used to test and assess design, ergonomics, function buttons and safety features under real conditions – long before expensive series production starts. Changes can then still be made early and inexpensively.
Children's bicycle trailers from Qeridoo are first tested internally by us as a prototype for function and safety. That happens not only on our internal test rig, but also outdoors under real conditions with a bicycle. Numerous pairs of eyes and the entire Qeridoo team are involved.
Once we are satisfied, the new bicycle trailer is also tested by TÜV Rheinland. Only when safety has been confirmed from the official side as well do we go into production.
The Qeridoo QUPA is the ideal children's bicycle trailer for newcomers. It is functional, easy to use and impresses with its attractive value for money. As one of the few trailers in this price segment, the QUPA has a comfortable leaf-spring damping system. The QUPA Plus offers even more comfort and practical features.
Our Qeridoo Kidgoo models combine safety and flexibility and, with FIDLOCK systems and the becco coupling system, offer smart features. Perfect for families looking for maximum comfort.
The Qeridoo Sportrex is made especially for sporty families who want to use the trailer flexibly for various activities. This trailer is the ideal all-rounder.
Anyone looking for a special look will find it in our Skaja and Lynix models. Their stylish design makes them stand out.
The QUPA 1 is a one-seater, while the QUPA 2 is a bicycle trailer for two children. The two-seater is therefore built wider and offers room for two children on the bench seat.
Our development, design and service departments are located at our headquarters in Germany. As for production, like most of our competitors we have our bicycle trailers manufactured in China.
Our aim is to avoid unnecessary costs and to keep prices fair. One of the ways we achieve this is the structural set-up of our production facilities in China, where most components are made in-house "under one roof". This eliminates unnecessary transport routes and the cost of bought-in parts.
