In 2010 Bosch eBike Systems presented its first drive system for pedelecs. The market and thus also eBike design has developed rapidly over the past ten years: from the deep beginner to the mountain bike, almost all types of bicycle are now electrified. At the same time, system components have been integrated increasingly seamlessly into the bicycle design. And this development is far from over: With the eBike Design Vision, Bosch eBike Systems presents the integration of its components in a way that will provide impulses for the pedelec design of the future.
Urban Sports Cruiser as concept study
Drive system and battery integrated in the frame
Bosch’s concept bike is designed as an urban sports cruiser — and with its carbon frame with fully integrated front and rear suspension, it offers the highest level of comfort for city adventures, commuting and country lanes alike. In this design study, the Bosch drive system merges with the frame and handlebars into a single unit. The integration of motor and battery, the new Nyon on-board computer and the Bosch eBike ABS make the eBike Design Vision a visual experience. The Performance Line CX engine is completely integrated in and enclosed by the white carbon frame structure. Lateral cooling channels in the frame create the necessary “cooling effect” during the ride for the powerful, dynamic drive. The PowerTube battery with 625 Wh is integrated in the down tube and can be removed for charging. Sophisticated design aspects reduce volume and give the concept bike a special dynamic. For example, the battery cover tapers towards the drive unit, creating a visual unity with it and supporting the clear cut between white and black surfaces.
Fully integrated cockpit
The carbon handlebar unit is also characterised by clear lines. The embedding of the new Nyon networked on-board computer in the middle of the cockpit is particularly attractive. The control unit of the on-board computer and the two brake levers also form a single unit with the black handlebars. The brake system’s wiring harness and hydraulic lines run inside the cockpit structure, so that nothing distracts from the design and the shape can take effect on its own. The eBike Design Vision is also equipped with the Bosch eBike ABS. The ABS unit is hidden behind the front luggage rack and fits elegantly into the overall picture. The front light is located under the front rack — a permanent LED daytime running light that draws its energy from the PowerTube 625. The LED tail light pair integrated into the frame rounds off the concept bike and supports its dynamic, futuristic look.
Further development of the eBike design
“With the eBike Design Vision, we want to show what is already possible today in the field of functional design integration and where the journey can lead in the future,” says Claus Fleischer, managing director of Bosch eBike Systems. “Because the eBike is becoming even more self-confident – also in terms of design.” Whereas in the past the focus was mainly on the optimal design of the individual components, the eBike of tomorrow will focus on vehicle design. A specific eBike design language will emerge that sees the eBike as a whole. An approach that the eBike Design Vision is already pursuing.
“In the foreground is the enjoyment of eBiking – and visual and design aspects play just as important a role here as optimum driving dynamics on the road or on the trail,” says Claus Fleischer. “It is important to us that our products provide a perfect basis for future design concepts of the manufacturers. To this end, we are continuously developing our system further – for a natural, comfortable and networked eBike riding experience that is both fun and beautiful”.
Even if it’s only a study, some of the solutions shown here are likely to be ready for production in the near future, for example clean cockpits without visible brake lines; in terms of circuitry, dispensing with cables is already possible with the electric models from Shimano and Sram. And even though the integration of motor and battery is already quite advanced at present, the topic of miniaturization is likely to continue to advance in the coming years – motor and battery should become even more compact as a result and be able to be integrated more unobtrusively into the frame. So we can already look forward to seeing what Bosch will be showing in 2021 in the form of innovations to mark its 11th anniversary. And until then, let’s just enjoy this pretty study!
