If you look around your home, it wouldn’t be surprising to find a Bosch appliance, but did you know that Bosch is also responsible for engineering the pedal-assist technology that powers our e-bikes? We sat down with some of the e-bike experts at Bosch to learn more about the motors that make our bikes go.
Who is Bosch?
Bosch was founded in 1886 and contributed one of the key technologies that helped make internal combustion possible for use in automobiles – the magneto ignition device. Today, Bosch technology is present in a variety of industries around the world. In fact, it’s difficult to go through a day without Bosch technology touching your life in some way. Bosch sensors are in more than 50 percent of cell phones, Bosch home appliances and power tools are found in homes and worksites globally, Bosch security cameras adorn buildings all around the world, while Bosch hydraulic technology is present in the Panama Canal and Tower Bridge in London. Virtually every vehicle on the road in the world today has Bosch technology on it, and Bosch was the first to bring life-saving safety technologies like anti-lock braking and electronic stability control to market. Known for its quality and dependability, Bosch’s technology and expertise in electric motors, sensor technology, displays, and lithium-ion batteries makes them the leading and most-qualified supplier for electric bike systems.
When and why did Bosch start making e-bike motors?
Bosch first forayed into e-bikes in 2011, when the Automotive Electronics division launched its first e-bike system and essentially shaped the modern e-bike as we know it today. Once a small startup within Automotive Electronics, e-bike is now its own independent division within Bosch, which truly demonstrates just how far e-bikes have come and how highly valued they are within the company as a pillar of Bosch’s mobility solutions sector.
So, why e-bikes? Broadly speaking, Bosch sees the mobility of the future characterized by three elements: automation, electrification, and connectivity. E-bikes exemplify these traits, and broaden Bosch’s definition of mobility to include more than just automotive transportation. Mobility is a basic human need, in whatever form it takes to get from place to place, and e-bikes unite technology with healthy human-powered mobility, which really stays true to our motto, “Invented for Life.”
What can you tell us about the components that you’ll find in the Trek Verve+ 3 that we ride on our trips?
The Trek Verve+ 3 sports the Active Line Plus, a well-balanced Class 1 drive unit with a max assist speed of 20 mph or 32 km/h. It has enough torque to succeed on hills while maintaining excellent battery range, bringing simple enjoyment to everyday riding. It’s quiet, reliable, and has barely any noticeable pedal resistance. The power of the Active Line Plus is delivered smoothly to achieve a natural riding sensation.
Purion is our compact, easy-to-read display that’s mounted on the left handlebar with the e-bike assist controls integrated within it. The display provides a clear overview of the charge status, speed, riding mode, range, trip distance, and total distance. All the important details are just a thumb-click away, perfect for riders who want simplified information and controls.
Bosch’s PowerTube lithium ion batteries have the power you need for any ride, and are easily rechargeable from any standard 110v wall outlet. The Verve+ 3 integrates its PowerTube 500 battery within the frame for worry-free riding, and a safety latch prevents the PowerTube from falling out even on challenging terrain.
How much power is in a typical e-bike battery?
Our e-bike batteries have their capacity measured in watt hours (Wh) and come in several sizes ranging from 400 Wh to 625 Wh. On average, you’re paying roughly 17 cents for every battery charge, and traversing anywhere from 35 to 100 miles on a single charge, depending on various factors (which you can learn about on our interactive e-bike Range Calculator page). It’s tough to compete with that level of energy efficiency versus a car!
Are there any surprising statistics or facts to know about?
- • Our Speed, Torque, and Cadence sensors make over 1,000 measurements per second as you ride, which translate to smooth, realistic, and quick responses to every pedal push you make.
- • Our 4-amp Charger will take your e-bike battery from zero to full charge in roughly 4.5 hours.
- • The Purion display also lets you control your integrated lighting by holding the “+” key.
- • As a company, Bosch has made good on our promise to achieve carbon neutrality by 2020.
- • The Robert Bosch foundation, a nonprofit foundation, holds 92 percent of the company’s shares, seven percent are in the hands of Robert Bosch’s descendants, and the company holds the remaining one percent.
- • Our complete e-bike system features the UL 2849 safety standard from the prestigious Underwriters Laboratory (UL), a strong commitment to long-term component quality for peace of mind.
- • Want a tune-up? Our field team has trained over 4,400 retailers in North America to bring e-bike expertise to every neighborhood.
- • E-bikes are so much fun, it’s virtually impossible to complete an e-bike ride without smiling.
What’s the most important thing to know about e-bikes?
E-bikes are even more fun with friends! Riders on your Trek Travel trip can enjoy the same sights and climb the same hills regardless of differences in riding skill or fitness level, making a tour by e-bike an unforgettable experience for everyone.
Explore e-bike vacations with Trek Travel
