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Future e-bike drive systems - smarter, not just more power

Future e-bike drive systems - smarter, not just more power

In the early days of e-bikes, the race was simple: more torque, more watts, more bragging rights. But today, the real battleground is somewhere else entirely, efficiency, intelligence and rider safety.

Preeto’s new P110 drive system is a good example of this shift. Yes, it delivers a strong 110 Nm of torque, packed into a compact 2.75 kg unit. But the message of Preeto is clear: the goal was not just to build a stronger motor, it was to build a more intelligent riding experience, especially through its newly refined Automatic mode.

The problem: too many modes, too little riding

E-bike users today are often faced with the same confusing cockpit routine: Eco, Tour, Sport, Boost… and constant button pressing. In reality, many riders end up using just one or two modes all the time, either too weak or too aggressive.

That has two direct downsides:

  • Reduced range, because power is wasted through inefficient support
  • Reduced safety, because riders are distracted in traffic or on trails

“We received a lot of feedback from manufacturers and dealers, that customers are struggling with all the different ride modes with the result they often just use one, too weak or too strong. This has two negative effects, one, inefficient power and battery use and second, safety because of distraction from the roads or trails. This is why the Preeto R&D Team feels the focus needs to be on a best possible AUTO mode,” explains Jürgen Ludwig, Managing Director Preeto Europe.

And he has a point. Manual gear shifting in modern electric cars are not in favour anymore, yet in the e-bike industry, riders are still ride bikes like in the 1990s.

Auto Mode: the “automatic transmission” for e-bikes

Preeto’s improved Automatic mode is designed to work like a modern car transmission: always in the right gear, without the rider thinking about it.

The P110 automatically adjusts support output between 20 and 110 Nm, depending on rider input and terrain.  A six axis sensor provides constant real-time information about the positioning of the bike. Instead of constantly switching modes manually, the rider stays focused, whether in busy urban stop-and-go traffic or on a technical single-trail climb.

But the key innovation is this: the system learns with every pedal stroke. It continuously self-adjusts to the rider’s style and behavior. That makes Auto mode particularly valuable for longer rides, where fatigue changes cadence and effort. The P110 adapts on the fly, reducing unnecessary power peaks and delivering smoother, more predictable support. The benefit is not just efficiency, it’s also safety. A smoother delivery means fewer surprises on loose surfaces, fewer overpowered take-offs at intersections, and less distraction from mode switching.

Smarter engineering, higher efficiency

The P110 platform is built around Preeto’s ongoing R&D focus on system-wide optimization, not just torque figures. Improvements include refined software control, electromagnetic motor design and the transition toward a 48V architecture. Preeto has increased the voltage utilization ratio through optimized control algorithms. In the drivetrain, all gears are produced with gear grinding technology, reaching DIN Class 6 precision.

Inside the motor, a segmented stator design improves slot fill factor, enabling peak motor efficiency. The controller uses MOSFETs with extremely low Rds(on), combined with optimized PCB layout and drive circuitry, to reach maximum efficiency. In short: Preeto is improving efficiency in every part of the energy chain, like tightening every bolt in a power pipeline so less energy “leaks” away.

Adaptive support for real-world riding

Auto mode also addresses one of the most common riding habits: inefficient cadence. Many riders climb hills at a low cadence, even though the optimal uphill cadence is typically around 80 rpm. Preeto’s system recognizes this behavior and delivers exactly the right support to keep riding smooth and controlled, without wasting battery through over-assist. It’s like having an invisible coach on your shoulder, not shouting instructions, but quietly pushing exactly when needed.

Designed for OEM needs — supported locally in Europe

While Auto mode may be the headline feature, Preeto’s long-term advantage is its development philosophy: continuous improvement driven by market feedback.

The P110 is not positioned as a “finished product”, but as a platform that evolves with rider behavior, dealer insights and OEM requirements. Preeto also strengthens this commitment with a local European support team based in Munich, providing faster communication, closer cooperation and hands-on technical assistance for partners.

A future where Auto Mode becomes the default

Riders can still choose manual modes like Eco, Tour, Sport and Boost. But Preeto believes Automatic mode will become the preferred choice in the near future, both on-road and off-road. Combined with battery options in both 36V or 48V, supported through trusted partners, the P110 offers OEMs a system that balances performance, efficiency and usability. Because the next big leap in e-bike technology isn’t about adding more power. It’s about making power and controls  feel simple and safe, so all rider can enjoy their experience.

This article is sponsored by ZW Drive.