Utilizing itstheir knowledge and advancements in 48V automotive technology, Continental is now bringing two 48V drive units to the electric bike market.
The 48V Revolution is the world’s first 48V-powered e-bike motor with a fully integrated stepless automatic transmission contained in an all-in-one drive unit. With its 2-in-1 drive and continuously variable planetary (CVP) gearing with a ratio range of 380%, the 48V Revolution sets a new standard in integrated e-bike systems, resulting in a fully automatic ride that is seamless in operation.
The 48V Revolution is the world’s first 48V e-bike motor with an integrated stepless automatic transmission in an all-in-one drive unit.
To complement the 48V Revolution, Continental will also introduce the 48V Prime drive unit, for use with conventionally geared e-bikes. As the global e-bike market is growing, dynamic and full of potential, so Continental is concentrating its already considerable attention to this pioneering field as part of a holistic approach to mobility.
Being mounted in a single unit at the bottom bracket axle position, 48V Revolution is optimized for bike designs offering a central and low center of gravity, resulting in the best handling bikes. Avoiding the penalty of a rotating mass inherent in some hub-based systems is another handling bonus that Continental’s OEM partners can incorporate in their bike designs. The integration of both drive and gearing into a single unit offers manufacturers more design freedom to create a clean, more desirable premium product. Integration reduces shifting complexity for riders and simplifies ongoing maintenance and servicing requirements.
Continental’s extensive R&D experience in 48V electric automotive development has been fundamental in the development of the 48V eBike system, resulting in revolutionary drive units that take e-bikes to the next level. A single unified drive unit bracket (frame adapter) can be applied to the 48V Prime as well as the 48V Revolution. This enables manufacturers to utilize the same frame design, with the same bottom bracket axle position, across 48V Revolution and 48V Prime powered bikes. Both new systems are compatible with both the Continental Belt Drive system and traditional chains. 48V Revolution and 48V Prime drive units will be available from model year 2018.
Continental is currently building a global network for complete after sales support and servicing to ensure that dealers, retailers and end users get all the support they need.
