Paris-based electric mobility company Valeo develops electrical systems for all rechargeable hybrids and all-electric cars, followed by e-trucks, autonomous shuttles, electric three-wheelers, and delivery droids. Now, Valeo has developed yet another use for its 48V systems – for electric bikes.
Developed in partnership with Effigear, the Valeo technology comprises a 48V electric motor and a seven-speed automatic, adaptive gearbox in a single unit located in the pedal assembly, providing the best electric assistance for bikes to date. Thanks to the motor’s torque of 130 Newton meters, it can multiply the cyclist’s effort by eight.
Here among other things, according to the company, its electric assistance allows a cyclist carrying a 150kg load to climb a 14% gradient (the equivalent of a parking lot ramp, for example) without breaking a sweat, whether moving forward or reversing. Valeo’s electric motor is also more efficient than the 24V or 36V motors installed on the vast majority of e-bikes available today.
The company has developed three prototypes to show how its Valeo Smart e-Bike System can be adapted to all types of models: a city bike, a mountain bike, and a cargo bike for transporting loads featuring unique reversing and braking energy recovery functions.
The adaptive automatic transmission uses an algorithm to understand and instantly adjust to each person’s needs, taking into account their riding style and journey. The gears shift smoothly, with no buttons or levers needing to be pressed. The Valeo Smart e-Bike System includes an anti-theft function integrated directly into the pedal assembly that, when activated, blocks the use of the bike. It also boasts a pedestrian push-assist function, which is particularly useful when carrying heavy loads, and a boost function that makes it easier to overtake other cyclists and climb hills.
With this high-end solution, Valeo is revolutionizing e-bike drivetrains with a system that already meets the best and most demanding automotive standards in terms of quality, robustness, durability, and safety.
