Energy and Drive Systems for Electric Bikes
Energy and Drive Systems for Electric Bikes
Electric-assist pedaling provides eco-friendly fun that lets people of all fitness levels ride farther, faster, and traverse challenging terrain with greater ease.
eBikes for every rider make U.S. entry
Panasonic is at the smart transportation forefront with our entrance into the electric-assist (eBike) market. As the end-to-end eMobility technology leader, our diverse portfolio spans vehicles from four wheels to two, providing next-gen energy solutions and new connectivity that is empowering safe, comfortable and environmentally responsible micro mobility alternatives for individuals and entire communities. Through its first U.S.-based eBike partnership –with Kent International, Inc. – Panasonic is launching electric bicycles under two brands with three models. Under the Kent International Inc. family of companies, the Univega USA brand and the Van Dessel brand, will both be powered by Panasonic batteries and motors. All models are designed and to be assembled in the U.S.
Connected and electrified
Just like a bicycle, but equipped with a motor, batteries and a control system, this emerging mobility option is ideal for commuting and everyday travel. Panasonic’s new GX0 motor system has an innovative casting design that makes its 2.95kg weight and 90Nm of torque an industry leading weight-to-power advantage and will be featured on two Van Dessel models – the Van Dessel Gravel eBike and Mountain eBike. The Univega USA Touring eBike will feature Panasonic’s X0 motor system, weighing in at 3.7kg and offering 80Nm of torque. With its introduction of a more compact, powerful and versatile eBike motor, Panasonic is helping to promote and expand two-wheel mobility, bringing this fun, family-friendly bicycling option to a broader population. Future advances in connectivity promise new mobility opportunities for smart cities, including the integration of bike-to-infrastructure capability into traffic management systems, enabling bikes and cars to communicate their location for safer roads.
The power of pedal-assist
Our eBike simulation demonstrates the difference between electric pedal assist and regular pedaling. An eBike can be operated strictly on battery power or by pedal power, but optimal energy efficiency is achieved by doing both at the same time. This lets riders travel farther, faster, carry heavier loads and conquer hills with less effort, making it ideal for commuters and cyclists of all fitness levels.
The two-wheeled revolution
Current market trends in North America show consumer demand for two-wheeled vehicles for recreation and fitness, but eBikes are also predicted to radically transform future urban mobility. In U.S. metro hubs, more people are commuting on two-wheels than ever before, catching up with the way two-thirds of the world gets to work. The fastest-growing bicycle type in the market right now is electric and sales of eBikes have grown more than eightfold since 2014, according to a recent Deloitte study. As a forward-thinking global energy leader, smart city expert and technology integrator, Panasonic has full capability to service this emerging two-wheel mobility market.
See E-bikes & Urban Mobility infographic here.