With the new M40, Mahle is unveiling a high-power mid-drive motor for the first time and is thus expanding its portfolio, which was previously focussed on hub motors. The new motor delivers a high torque of 105 Nm and achieves a peak power of up to 850 watts — at a weight of only 2.5 kilograms. This makes the M40 one of the most powerful systems on the market. Alongside Bosch, Specialized and DJI, Mahle is the next manufacturer to introduce a drive with over 100 Nm.
Not the first mid-drive motor from Mahle — but the most powerful to date!
Until now, Mahle was primarily known for its compact and lightweight hub motors, which are mainly used in sporty everyday bikes and urban models. However, this is not the first mid-motor in which the company has been involved: in collaboration with Specialized, Mahle has already developed a compact mid-drive motor that is used exclusively in the US manufacturer’s lightweight SL models. However, this drive is designed for lower performance and is used for gentle support rather than full power.
The M40, on the other hand, was developed for use in demanding environments and is designed to provide consistent, powerful support — even at high pedalling frequencies. The power is controlled by modern sensors and precise software that recognises the riding style in real time and adjusts the motor support accordingly. The result is a natural riding experience with a direct response.
Mahle places particular emphasis on a high degree of customisability. Bicycle manufacturers can configure the system to suit the respective brand – including riding behaviour and control. Accessories from other manufacturers can also be integrated via an interface module.
New batteries and compatible accessories
The system works with two new batteries that are developed and manufactured in Europe: The iM5 battery with 534 watt hours enables a particularly light overall combination with the motor of less than 5 kilograms. The larger iM8 with 800 watt hours should allow a range of up to 150 kilometres or 2,500 metres in altitude. Both batteries are identical and can be easily replaced. They are also said to be capable of fast charging – however, it has not yet been communicated how many amps they can actually be charged with.
In addition, the drive is equipped with a compact colour display (Head Unit+) and a new handlebar control (Trio Remote), which works wirelessly and is intuitive to operate. Both components can be fully combined with existing Mahle products.
The start of a new series of mid-drive motors
The M40 is the first drive in a new product line, the so-called M-series, which Mahle intends to develop further in the coming years. The aim is to play a central role in the area of powerful centre drives alongside the already established X-series hub drives.
So the race for ever more powerful motors continues – and Mahle is positioning itself with a lightweight and versatile system. However, it remains to be seen how the M40 will perform in everyday use. We are particularly interested in aspects such as its noise level under load, heat generation on longer journeys and the actual range with high levels of assistance. The long-term quality of the new batteries and the number of bikes with this new system will also show how competitive the new Mahle drive really is.
