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Eurobike 2024: A closer look at ZF's e-bike drive system

Eurobike 2024: A closer look at ZF's e-bike drive system

At Eurobike 2024, the ZF Group unveiled its new 48-Volt drive system for e-bikes for the first time. The 'ZF Bike Eco System' includes all drive components such as the e-motor, batteries, control units, app, and cloud connectivity. The core component is the ZF CentriX drive unit with a compact, 90 Nm mid-motor.

The centerpiece of the ZF drive system is the newly developed CentriX drive unit, unique for its high torque density, low weight, and small installation space. CentriX consists of a mid-motor and a gear stage in a cylindrical design, with installation dimensions of 88 millimeters in diameter and 118 millimeters in width.

The ZF drivetrain is available in two versions: the CentriX 90, with 90 Nm of torque and a maximum output of 600 watts, is ideal for mountain, trekking, or SUV bikes. The CentriX 75, with a torque of 75 Nm and a maximum output of 450 watts, is designed for gravel, commuter, or urban bikes.

The ZF drivetrain is available in two versions: the CentriX 90, with 90 Nm of torque and a maximum output of 600 watts, is ideal for mountain, trekking, or SUV bikes.
The ZF drivetrain is available in two versions: the CentriX 90, with 90 Nm of torque and a maximum output of 600 watts, is ideal for mountain, trekking, or SUV bikes.

ZF Bike Eco System

The ZF Bike Eco System is based on a 48-volt architecture and delivers 250 watts of continuous power. For energy supply, ZF offers lithium-ion batteries with capacities of 504 or 756 Wh, which are mounted in the down tube using a rail system and are removable for charging.

The Core Controller, integrated into the top tube, serves as the central control and operating unit for the entire system. It displays information such as battery charge status via an intuitive circular LED display. Optionally, a remote or a high-resolution 2.8-inch color display with touch function can be connected to the handlebars.

Innovative interface

The Core Controller features an innovative interface for charging devices like smartphones via magnetic spring contacts, known as pogo pin connectors. Additionally, Bluetooth connectivity allows the bike to connect to ZF’s app on a smartphone, offering features such as navigation, route recording, bike status, and over-the-air software updates via the cloud. In the future, the digital ZF Bike Eco System will be expanded to include additional comfort and safety features.

The system benefits from easy installation, featuring simplified cabling and a quick motor installation process that takes just a few minutes.
The system benefits from easy installation, featuring simplified cabling and a quick motor installation process that takes just a few minutes.

Flexibility

The ZF Bike Eco System is an open system that offers interfaces and integration options for third-party providers, giving bicycle manufacturers flexibility in their choice of additional components. The system benefits from easy installation, featuring simplified cabling and a quick motor installation process that takes just a few minutes.

The entire drive system is designed for easy maintenance, with individual components typically replaceable within minutes. Dealers can quickly and easily update the software using the magnetic pogo pin connector on the Core Controller.

This article is sponsored by ZF.