Source: Nieuwsfiets Image sources: Nieuwsfiets

The LEVA-EU member’s recently launched low-step e-bike Suelo is the first of a new generation of bicycles that has been equipped with the complete Betronic EDS platform.

Betronic EDS is part of the Dutch company Betronic Group, which develops and produces electronics for various solutions including those for the mobility and energy sectors. Now the company is repositioning itself as being a full system supplier to fulfil increasing demand levels for integrated drive systems.

Partnership with Nijland Cycling

Nijland’s Suelo is the first model to adopt a complete Betronic EDS platform. For the integrated system, both parties collaborated on components including the drivetrain, frame integration, geometry and service architecture.

A significant part of the design is the positioning of the 65 Nm mid-drive motor on the frame, which has been modified to be mounted upside down to create additional space between the motor and the frame, to give the e-bike a low step-through entry height of 16 cm. To enable this configuration, the team adapted a drivetrain which enables its chain to run along an alternative route under the frame.

The results of this unique design for Suelo include maximised stability, ground contact at a standstill, and mounting and dismounting control, thanks to the combination of the motor’s positioning, modified drivetrain and forward pedalling geometry.

Software system configuration option for diverse riding needs

Nijland’s Suelo uses a Betronic BM65 mid-drive motor, which has been equipped with a torque rotation sensor and ISIS axle. The software of this system can be modified for different target groups and applications.

For the Suelo model, Betronic has tailored the assistance to provide controlled acceleration and low-speed stability, alongside support to be suitable for users who have reduced stability. Furthermore, with the Betronic Service Tool, dealers can customise driving set-ups for specific users or applications.

The motor controller is the centralised component of the E-Drive platform. Betronic EDS states that its controller has been innovated for a new generation of systems to meet current industrial standards and provide additional security and configuration options. Part of the development and validation of its firmware has been attributed to using AI-assisted software development and signal validation.

The E-Drive platform works on a 12-volt architecture and includes features such as lighting, sensors, CAN communication, IoT functionalities, and provides support for future OTA updates. Betronic also developed a user interface for Nijland Cycling according to the brand’s corporate style.

Betronic EDS support services for Nijland’s dealers

The company provides a reliable service proposition for OEMs, dealers, and workshops. For example, for the Suelo, it provides Nijland dealers with an onboarding kit and service tool, with access to a ticket system and helpdesk for diagnostics, firmware updates and technical support.

The rollout of the Suelo and further partnership developments

In May, the first batch of 20 Suelo bikes was delivered to dealers, with larger deliveries of the model to dealers in Belgium and the Netherlands in June and July. During this first cycling season, Nijland is working with a network of around 35 dealers.

Nijland Cycling and Betronic EDS are planning to work together on additional models, with a broader introduction to the market, anticipated to start in 2027.