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Semcon develops prototype low-cost smart motor for turning any bike electric

Semcon has developed a smart and inexpensive motor prototype that can be easily fitted to any bike. The units costs less than €100 (US$114) to assemble and can easily be transferred between bikes.

The needs and wishes of the typical cyclist are what got us started. The benefits of the electrified bike are obvious, but existing solutions are expensive and complex. That’s why we developed an engine which is compatible with any bike and easily shared among friends and family.

—Anders Sundin, Technical Director at Semcon

Making the engine small and easy to carry around was important for the developers, so the team decided on a solution with a 150-watt output weighing just over one kilogram. To maximize battery life, the engine detects the cyclist’s pedalling and is only active at speeds between 7 and 25 km/h (4.4 to 15.5 mph). This ensures a comfortable, smooth and safe ride, as the smart engine interprets the cyclist’s pedalling and intentions.

The engine contains a small computer on which the software controlling it runs, making it possible for Semcon developers to develop different apps in future. This could include, for example, different modes, prioritizing speed or reach, or other applications such as theft-control or tracking.

Today, the engine is not available to end-consumers. Semcon is currently looking for investors interested in bringing the new bike engine concept to the market.

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