LEVA-EU member Bafang has announced that they’ve entered into a service agency agreement with EMCB to enhance the growth of the e-bike market across the UK.
Under the terms of the agreement, EMCB will manage dealer services in the UK for bike brands that have signed dealer service contracts with them. EMCB will offer daily consultations, repairs, and sell spare parts. Bafang says that due to the wide range of product combinations, priority will be given to brands that implement the complete Bafang system to ensure top-notch service quality.
Mike Wen, the service director of Bafang, said: “This cooperation is an important move for Bafang to root in the UK market. By cooperating with EMCB, an experienced eBike motor service company, we will be able to provide services to UK dealers more efficiently.”
“Bafang is a well-known brand that has been specializing in eBike drive systems for over 20 years, we are very pleased to begin this exciting cooperation, and looking forward to being able to support Bafang’s growth in the UK market” – Pete Collard, Head of EMCB.
Bafang has said they are committed to developing and delivering first-rate drive systems and services for electric bicycles. The company has built a service network across the Netherlands, Germany, France, Italy, Denmark, Poland, the United States, and China, and is now expanding its reach to the UK, enhancing the localization of its services.
EMCB is a sister company to eBike Motor Centre, a repair service centre that focuses on out-of-warranty services for a range of eBike motor brands. Drawing on its deep expertise in the eBike motor industry, EMCB is set to offer warranty services to OEM manufacturers and their dealerships across the UK.
Exemplifying the rapid innovation within the electric bicycle industry, LEVA-EU member Bafang, a major manufacturer of e-bike components, has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past five years.
Electrek recently visited the company’s production facilities in China and explored its new expansive manufacturing facilities and groundbreaking advancements in electric bicycle technology.
Comprehensive component production
Bafang has long been a significant force in the e-bike sector, producing a wide range of components integral to electric bike drive systems. Since the author’s initial visit in 2019, the company has substantially expanded its operations, now encompassing full e-bike battery design and manufacturing. The author described the contrast between their initial visit in 2019 and the latest tour, five years later, as “mind-blowing”. This expansion necessitated a move to a larger, state-of-the-art facility, highlighting the company’s commitment to innovation and vertical integration.
Revolutionary research and development
The journey begins in Bafang’s Research and Development (R&D) department, where a team of engineers and designers meticulously crafts the next generation of e-bike components. One of its impressive advancements is the development of internally geared hubs (IGHs) with integrated hub motors. Known as the Bafang Gear Variable Transmission (GVT) line, these components combine the clean, low-maintenance design of IGHs with the power and efficiency of electric motors. This innovation allows for automatic, cable-free shifting and opens new possibilities for e-bike design.
Rigorous testing and quality assurance
A rigorous testing process ensures the durability and reliability of Bafang’s products. Its motors undergo pressure, drop, and vibration tests, while soundproof rooms and electromagnetic compatibility chambers allow engineers to fine-tune performance and safety. The company has also developed a proprietary gear material, offering enhanced strength and reduced noise compared to traditional nylon or steel gears.
State-of-the-art manufacturing
On the factory floor, quality inspections are paramount. Components are scrutinized with micron-level precision before entering largely automated assembly lines. Robotic systems now handle tasks such as applying grease, winding copper wire for motor cores, and assembling motors with greater speed and accuracy than manual methods. Notably, new vacuum systems at soldering stations enhance worker safety by extracting fumes directly through the workstation surfaces.
Battery production: A bold new frontier
A standout feature of Bafang’s expanded facility is believed to be its battery factory. Traditionally the domain of specialized battery manufacturers, Bafang’s decision to produce its own high-quality battery packs represents a significant leap forward. The process begins with stringent cell testing, followed by robotic sorting and ultrasonic welding to create larger battery assemblies. After extensive performance testing, each battery pack undergoes a full charge and discharge cycle before packaging and shipment.
A one-stop shop for e-bike OEMs
The scale and sophistication of Bafang’s operations underscore its emergence as a comprehensive supplier for e-bike original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). By producing nearly every component of an e-bike drive system in-house, Bafang has positioned itself as a global leader in the electric bicycle industry.
Shaping the future of electric mobility
As the e-bike market continues to grow, Bafang’s commitment to research, innovation, and production excellence looks to play a major part in shaping the future of electric mobility. The remarkable advancements witnessed during this recent factory tour serve as a compelling indicator of what lies ahead for this dynamic and rapidly evolving sector.
Elektrek’s Bafang video tour can be accessed here.
The globally renowned electric bike component manufacturer is set to expand its increasingly popular hub motor range with a new three-speed automatic system.
The upgrade is expected to significantly improve riding performance and will be part of Bafang’s H-series line, under the product code H730.
It will be initially unveiled on the upcoming Ado Air 30 urban e-bike, which currently has a fundraising campaign on Indiegogo, to support the production of this innovative new model.
Bafang’s existing two-speed automatic hub motor has already earned a strong reputation, featured in some of the market’s highest-rated e-bikes. Its seamless transition between gears which adapts to the rider’s pedal power has been highly praised, with its acceleration that significantly enhances the performance of what would otherwise be a single speed bike. The new three-speed system is expected to reduce effort during acceleration by up to 24%.
According to available information, the automatic gear shifts will occur at speeds of 13 km/h and 19 km/h, with each shift aligning with the feedback from the torque sensor. The motor will provide 40Nm of torque.
This advanced automatic gearing system will also improve battery efficiency by better managing power usage, helping riders reach speed more effectively while reducing strain on the motor. Additionally, the Ado Air 30 will feature a partner display that allows users to program both sport and eco assistance modes, offering the option to manually adjust the bike’s range and power output.
The Ado Air 30 e-bike boasts a range of up to 100 km, powered by a 370Wh integrated slimline battery that can be easily removed via an asymmetric side cover. The bike will also include a range of smart features, including GPS tracking for anti-theft protection, USB-C charging, and a suspension seatpost for added comfort. Both classic and step-over frame options will soon be available.
The pricing for the new Ado Air 30 Ultra will be disclosed on February 20th, during the Indiegogo campaign launch.
E-bike systems manufacturer and LEVA-EU member Bafang has seen an enthusiastic uptake of its Gear, Variable, Transmission (GVT) technology platform and automatic gear hub since their launch at China Cycle in 2021
The launch of Bafang’s GVT technology came after years of meticulous R&D. “This technology takes the e-bike shifting experience to a new level with precise automatic shifting mechanisms and advanced transmission control, resulting in seamless and smooth gear changes that integrate the rider and e-bike as one, turning a concept into a reality,” said Zou Bin, Chief Designer of Bafang’s GVT. “Products with GVT technology are belt drive friendly and offer a high degree of integration, allowing for more design possibilities for e-bikes.”
The manufacturer reports that over 40 brands have chosen to install the GVT system in their products. Rudi Leusink, CEO of the Dutch e-bike brand iMove, said, “Our First Lady and President models are equipped with the automatic Bafang H700 shifting system. For those who are looking for an eBike, we strongly recommend a test ride to experience a different shifting feeling.”
Enhanced durability
According to Zou Bin, GVT alleviates the common maintenance issues and durability concerns associated with existing shifting systems. “It is also a further step towards extending the overall lifespan of e-bikes. In the past three years, we have launched the automatic hub motor and automatic gear hub series, both of which have received positive feedback from various markets.”
iMove’s Rudi Leusink added, “Automatic internal shifting does not require the array of components required by external shifting systems. This fits perfectly with our design style: clean and classic, while being effective in avoiding performance impacts caused by weather, dirt or external wear, making it hassle-free for users.”
An example product is the H700 is an automatic two-speed rear-wheel drive system. During riding, the bike automatically and efficiently shifts gears based on the bike’s speed, keeping the cadence in the zone that best suits the rider. “Compared to manual shifting, automatic shifting offers a simpler choice for cyclists, especially in busy urban areas where they can focus more on the road than on the gear shifter,” said Yingzhe Wang, Head of R&D at Bafang.
Bafang’s design philosophy for the GVT is to simplify commuting by providing riders with a new riding and shifting experience. It can also be found in mid-motor drivetrain systems combined with automatic shifting hubs, such as the M210 mid-drive system combined with the G300A 3-speed automatic shifting hub.
Addressing e-bike gear switching challenges
In the e-bike industry, the shifting performance of high-power e-bikes is a regular concern; thanks to the high output power, traditional external shifting systems face increased risk of damage. To address this, Bafang developed the GVT automatic shifting hub motor series, including H700, H710 and H720, with power ranges from 250W to 1000W. In addition, the G500A 5-speed automatic gear hub released in 2024 offers a torque of up to 200Nm, effectively addressing the shifting difficulties in high-power mid-motor drive systems, especially for cargo bikes with high loading capacities, providing riders with more reliable performance. “GVT was launched three years ago, and since then, more than 40 e-bike brands worldwide have integrated our GVT products in the urban, touring, cargo and fat eBike categories,” said Yingzhe Wang. “Without the need for shifting cables or external cassettes, you will find more folding bikes and city bike equipped with GVT series products. Looking ahead, we will continue to explore more possibilities on this platform.“
Comments Off on Bafang presents revolutionary Gear Variable Transmission (GVT) technology platform and new 5-speed automatic gear hub
Spearheading a new era for the shifting experience, Bafang proudly introduces its innovative Gear Variable Transmission (GVT) technology platform, along with its latest creation based on GVT—the G500A, an internal 5-speed automatic shift hub designed for high-powered eFat bikes. Offering a groundbreaking shift experience for eBikes, G500A is debuting at the 2024 China Cycle Show.
Breaking Cycling Boundaries with the Revolutionary GVT Technology Platform
GVT, short for Gear Variable Transmission, represents years of meticulous research and development by Bafang. This technology elevates the eBike shifting experience to a new level with precise automatic shifting mechanisms and advanced transmission control, creating seamless and smooth gear changes that aligns the eBike and rider as one, turning what was once merely a concept into reality. Products featuring GVT technology are belt-drive-friendly and offer a high degree of integration, enabling greater design possibilities. Moreover, GVT significantly reduces common maintenance issues and durability concerns found in existing shift systems, thus extending the overall lifespan of eBikes.
“Over the past 3 years, we have launched the automatic hub motor and the automatic gear hub series, both of which have received positive feedback from various markets. We are very proud and honored,” said Zou, the chief engineer of the Bafang GVT. “It is this motivation that has led us to decide to give it an official name, to better acquaint everyone with it. Regarding the GVT technology platform, in the future, we will further interpret it through more innovations.”
The 5-Speed Automatic Gear hub – The Latest GVT Technology
As the latest innovation on the GVT platform, the G500A is a 5-speed automatic gear hub specifically crafted for high-powered fat-tire eBikes, designed to effectively tackle challenging terrains like snow and sand. G500A can withstand torque ratings of over 200Nm and supports speeds of 45km/h and 60km/h. It is available with 175mm and 190mm dropout options to accommodate most eFat bikes.
Bafang’s commitment to quality and reliability is reflected in its rigorous testing standards. Each of the five gears in the G500A undergoes at least 10,000 impact tests, ensuring durability and rider confidence.
G500A simulated load testing
With the introduction of the GVT technology platform, Bafang aims to set a new benchmark for drive system reliability and durability in the eBike industry. As the GVT platform continues to evolve, Bafang is developing more ground-breaking products, underscoring its commitment to leading the industry towards higher technological standards and user experiences.
The e-bike system manufacturer’s DP C010 display receives accolade at the German Design Awards.
Bafang achieved great success at the German Design Awards 2024, its DACH sales manager, Andre Fuchs, attended the event to accept Bafang’s award for its DP C010 system, which won best product design in the bicycles and e-bikes category. According to the German Design Awards’ website, the system wowed the judges with its user-friendliness, efficiency and aesthetically pleasing advantages.
Bafang’s C010 display has a high-resolution, waterproof 4.0 inch TFT screen, and has six built-in languages with features including USB charging, maps, and Bluetooth connectivity.
This news adds to an already exciting start to 2024 for Bafang, the brand has recently received an CNAS accreditation for its laboratory, giving extra assurance about the strict compliance of its products.
Comments Off on Bafang Laboratory Center receives CNAS accreditation
Bafang Electric (Suzhou) Co., Ltd. is committed to building a world-class professional testing laboratory for two-wheel drive systems, elevating industry product quality standards. Most recently, the Bafang Laboratory Center officially obtained its accreditation certificate from the China National Accreditation Service for Conformity Assessment (CNAS). This achievement comes in the wake of the company’s continuous upgrading of quality management practices, and dedication to product quality, both fundamental elements in the survival and development of enterprises.
International Authority Accreditation
CNAS accreditation signifies that the outstanding hardware facilities and management practices of the Bafang Laboratory Center have reached international recognition standards, and that the facility possesses the technical capabilities to conduct high-quality professional testing. In following CNAS guidelines, Bafang will further enhance the reliability of its diverse product range including motors, HMIs, controllers, and sensors, as well as the compatibility of its complete systems for electric rides.
As an official Chinese accreditation body, CNAS is responsible for the review and supervision of certification organizations, testing institutions, laboratories, and other qualified assessment institutions. Under the authority of the Certification and Accreditation Authority of the People’s Republic of China (CNCA), CNAS has achieved international recognition of its test results with numerous global organizations, helping to accelerate product certification and project advancement for companies and enabling Bafang and its upstream and downstream partners to respond to market demands more rapidly and accurately.
Bafang Quality Management System
To date, Bafang has successfully established the acoustics laboratory, motor performance laboratory, battery performance laboratory, eBike system performance laboratory, EMC laboratory and reliability laboratories in mechanical and environmental, as well as other specialized testing facilities. Bafang has allied with riders all over the world to conduct on-site application tests on professional tracks and has assembled a quality management team that covers every stage of the product lifecycle. Through a multi-channel, whole-process quality management system, Bafang pioneers product quality invariably.
Comments Off on Global e-bike drive systems brand, Bafang, looks to embrace challenges and drive progress in 2024
As the eBike industry faced a challenging year in 2023 due to a slowdown in demand caused by an unstable international climate and high inventory levels, Bafang, a global drive system supplier with over 20 years of experience in the two-wheeled industry, proactively adjusted its pace to meet market changes. The company further solidified its industry-leading position by leveraging advanced products and superior services.
Looking ahead to the upcoming year, Bafang plans to continue strengthening its investment in technology and product quality to maintain its resolute and mission-driven approach. The company will push for sustainable development in the industry with unwavering confidence, inject vitality into the market, and lead with a firm step.
Bafang focuses on providing high-quality and high-performance drive system solutions for global customers, earning the trust of OEMs, brand owners, dealers, and end consumers around the world. In 2023, Bafang celebrated several milestone moments including its first dealer conference, the topping-out ceremony of its new-energy factory, its 20th anniversary, and its seventh technical exchange meeting. Additionally, a series of achievements in battery production, technical recognition by major international product awards, and the successful deployment of the DDS dealer service system all showcased Bafang’s impressive corporate strength and broad market prospects worldwide.
Furthermore, Bafang continues its expansion into electric motorcycle powertrains with its sister brand, T&D. In 2023, T&D joined forces with Bolt.Earth to deliver unparalleled user experiences, transforming the mobility landscape. Bafang, T&D, and Bolt.Earth teamed up at EICMA 2023 to showcase the strength of their partnership and the future of sustainable mobility.
Social responsibility and industry mission are indispensable beliefs on Bafang’s path to development. Facing industry challenges head-on, Bafang will continue to focus on product performance, quality control, and after-sales service, ensuring that “quality” and “warranty” are at the forefront of the company’s focus. The company will provide more comprehensive support and protection to each customer by improving production automation coverage and expanding the global after-sales service layout.
At the same time, Bafang recognizes that its responsibility and mission should not only be limited to high-quality products and services but also contribute to the prosperity of the entire industry. The company is willing to actively participate in industry cooperation, share experiences, and achieve mutual benefits. On the occasion of the New Year, Bafang extends sincere New Year wishes to partners around the world, expressing gratitude for the ongoing support. In 2024, the company will continue to maintain its resolute belief, work together, and create a shared future.
About BAFANG:
BAFANG, one of the leading manufacturers of e-mobility components and e-drive systems, has been developing components and complete systems for electric vehicles since 2003. The company is listed on the Shanghai Stock Exchange (603489.SS) and focuses on all global emobility trends of the future: be it individual e-bikes, e-scooters or for public bike sharing systems.
Bafang employs over 1000 people at 10 international locations worldwide. The headquarters, development and production sites are located in Suzhou, in the immediate vicinity of Shanghai/China. A virtual tour of the new headquarters in Suzhou via a VR Panorama Tour starts here. Bafang has sales and service centers in the Netherlands, the USA, Germany, Denmark, France, Italy, and China. The newly opened plant in Poland focuses on the production of mid-motor systems for the European markets.
Comments Off on Bafang’s continuous progress: Enhancing waterproof performance and more
Bafang reveals design and engineering processes behind ongoing product advancement
Suzhou, October 2023 – It is not just about new developments, it’s also about enhancing existing products. This includes sustainability, product lifespan, design, and construction techniques. These aspects hold immense importance for Bafang, particularly its dedicated R&D department. As a result, the manufacturer has identified waterproofing as just one key focus area, aiming to make consistent incremental improvements as technologies and the wider industry continue their boundless development.
Water poses a substantial threat to the lifespan of electronic drives. As a well-established Chinese e-drive manufacturer, Bafang is committed to consistently enhancing its products in response to this challenge. To ensure the highest levels of customer satisfaction, the manufacturer places great importance on user input and experience.
This commitment is evident in the rigorous testing of new models and ongoing improvements to existing products in the market. Products are thus continually upgraded to extend the intervals of product maintenance and increase the overall product lifespan. These improvements go hand-in-hand with a reduced environmental impact (less waste, lower resource requirements), helping to continuously solidify Bafang’s position as a leading player in sustainable e-mobility development.
What’s new?
Through continuous communication and seamless collaboration between all relevant departments, Bafang is committed to further enhancing the robustness and water-resistance of its e-bike applications. In line with internal design and quality standards and in response to rising user demands for waterproof performance, the team has set specific waterproof upgrade targets and comprehensive plan for various components within its drive systems, including motors, gear-hubs and displays, which ensures the feasibility and successful implementation of this modernization, all while maintaining the IPX6 standard for waterproofing.
What measures are being taken?
In pursuit of upgrading waterproofing capabilities across its range, Bafang engineers pays meticulous attention to product structure design and are diligently analyzing and refining the structural elements that safeguard its products from water intrusion. This involves a comprehensive evaluation of seals, enclosures, and internal components to fortify their ability to withstand moisture and environmental challenges.
Bafang’s commitment to modernization is underpinned by a holistic approach that ensures products not only meet but exceed waterproofing standards. By fine-tuning the product structure design, the team aims to elevate the overall waterproof performance, providing customers with a superior and dependable experience.
What’s the benefit?
The benefits of Bafang’s comprehensive approach to improving waterproofing and product design are threefold. Firstly, customers can expect an enhanced and trouble-free experience, as products are improved to better withstand the rigors of various weather conditions. This translates to reduced post-purchase maintenance and a more satisfying ownership experience.
Secondly, Bafang’s commitment to sustainability ensures that products have a reduced environmental footprint. Selecting eco-friendly materials, optimizing design, and reducing maintenance frequency and the use of excess materials all contribute to a greener planet and reduced impact on the environment.
Lastly, the manufacturer’s dedication to waterproofing and overall product improvement not only results in better-performing e-drive systems but also extends the lifespan of components. This means customers can enjoy long-lasting, reliable, and environmentally conscious solutions, making Bafang their preferred choice for e-bike components.
What’s next?
Planning, implementing, and upgrading the modernization of products requires a structured approach. Bafang meticulously develops comprehensive plans, considers all relevant aspects, and ensures feasibility. This approach enables continued incremental improvements across the product line, encompassing batteries, drive systems, HMIs and gear hubs.
By establishing clear requirements and objectives, Bafang is set to define achievable and verified standards. These standards serve as a foundation for exploring various alternatives, rigorously evaluated to deliver optimal solutions. This journey may lead us to the introduction of a higher standard. Going forward, customers can anticipate a future filled with even more highly innovative, shapely and robust products from Bafang.
