Bafang announces Comodule collaboration

Source: Cycling Electric, Comodule

The LEVA-EU member has announced a strategic partnership with Comodule, an Internet of Things (IoT) technology provider for light electric vehicles, to enhance the intelligence, security, and connectivity of Bafang’s next-generation drive systems, which are set to debut in 2026.

Comodule, known for its behind-the-scenes influence in the connected e-bike sector, brings extensive expertise in digital integration and data-driven solutions. The collaboration will introduce a suite of advanced software and hardware features designed to elevate both the security and performance of e-bikes powered by Bafang systems.

Bafang’s R&D Senior Manager, Leo Wang, has said the following about the collaboration:

“We believe a truly smart e-bike is built on a foundation of powerful, reliable platform, seamlessly extended by digital intelligence. While we provide the complete integrated drive system, including motor, display, battery, etc., we firmly believe in keeping our ecosystem open. By connecting Comodule’s advanced IoT platform with our drive systems, we are empowering OEM and brand partners with unparalleled flexibility. They can now offer a richer, more secure, and continuously evolving rider experience.”

Smart immobilization bringing optimised anti-theft security

Among the most notable innovations is a digital immobilizer with a motor lock, innovated to make stolen e-bikes practically unusable. It operates via a partner mobile app that automatically disables the bike’s drivetrain when the rider moves out of range.

For mid-drive systems, the motor is electronically locked, while in hub-drive systems, the wheel itself is prevented from turning. Even if the IoT unit is removed, the immobilizer remains active until the rightful owner re-enables the system.

Complementing these safeguards is a movement detection system that sends real-time notifications to the owner’s smartphone if unauthorized motion is detected. The system can also trigger an audible alarm and activate onboard lights, to help further in deterring theft, as well as alert bystanders to suspicious activity.

Smarter diagnostics and data transparency

Beyond theft prevention, the partnership introduces expanded access to drivetrain and battery analytics. Riders will be able to monitor a broad range of data, including speed, cadence, and assist levels, as well as diagnostic information including error codes, motor and battery temperatures, and overall battery health.

These insights are particularly relevant as the industry continues to focus on battery safety and transparency following public concerns over e-bike fire risks.

The added data visibility will allow riders and manufacturers to better understand the performance and reliability of their e-bike’s system. OEMs and fleet operators can benefit from remote monitoring, predictive maintenance, and over-the-air configuration adjustments, enabling proactive management and operational efficiency. The system also opens opportunities for data-driven business models, such as personalized services, subscription features, and ongoing customer engagement.

Continuous improvement with Over-the-Air (OTA) technology

Bafang’s upcoming systems will also support OTA updates, allowing e-bikes to receive new software features and performance enhancements wirelessly, helping to ensure that the bikes remain up to date with technology advancements.

For fleets, OTA updates can enable remote control of vehicles, including immobilization in cases of unpaid subscriptions or misuse.

Upgrading e-bikes into smart bikes with open ecosystems

Sten Soomlais, Chief Product Officer at Comodule, stated the following about the potential of open digital ecosystems and the Bafang collaboration:

“Open ecosystems are the key to transforming e-bikes into smart bikes. They unlock digital rider experiences, new business models, and give OEMs true freedom of choice over their products and services they offer. This is the path we believe the whole industry must take, and Bafang’s openness has allowed us to push these limits with this integration. It shows how collaboration in an open ecosystem can drive innovation and adoption at scale.”

The Comodule partnership marks a significant step for Bafang’s e-bike drive systems in advancing the next generation of connected, intelligent e-bikes, with improved safety, smarter diagnostics, and digital adaptability.