MAHLE wins Design & Innovation Award

Source: MAHLE SmartBikeSystems, Design and Innovation Award

The LEVA-EU member’s first full-power mid-drive system for electric mountain bikes, the M40, has won this award in the components (offroad) category, with its balanced combination of performance, light weight, clean integration, as well as its advanced control and assistance features being highlighted by the jury.

The judging panel was impressed with the M40’s control features, which enhanced precision, bringing a natural, intuitive ride across varied terrain. And in terms of assistance, the M40’s power output can be adjusted according to heart-rate data, which the jury cited as an intelligent approach for improving comfort and training efficiency.

M40 specifications

Its 2.5 kg drive unit unleashes up to 105 Nm and 850 W peak power, alongside a 48 V architecture to bring efficiency and sustained output. If combined with the iM5 534 Wh battery (2.5 kg), the total weight of the drive and battery is approximately 5 kg.

Precise assistance

Working with the torque and cadence inputs is a high-resolution speed sensor which regulates a smooth and fast output for controlled traction and intuitive pedalling on varied terrain and technical climbs. It’s equipped with features that include an Auto-hold for preventing roll-back on steep pitches, as well as a Dynamic Overrun for maintaining momentum for cresting obstacles.

Two battery selections for different design priorities

The M40’s integrated batteries share form factor and connectors: the iM5 (534 Wh, 2.5 kg) prioritises light weight, while the iM8 (800 Wh) brings an extended range of 150 km or 2,500 m elevation gain. These battery options enable brands to tailor the proposition of each bike without having to redesign the platform.

More information about M40 can be accessed on the MAHLE website.