E-bikes and automobiles share important commonalities: both are wheel-based forms of transportation, and both use microprocessors, batteries, and motors. But despite these commonalities there has been an enormous difference in the marketplace performance of autos and e-bikes: while automobiles have enjoyed rising prices, frequent innovations, and sustained growth, for the past four years e-bikes have suffered declining prices, me-too product features, and lack of innovation: a perfect recipe for marketplace woes.

As the e-bike market continues to develop, the diversity of consumer needs has led to a proliferation of specialised bikes - be it agile city commuters, practical cargo bikes or versatile touring e-bikes. Amid this kaleidoscopic array of choices, one segment is rapidly rising to prominence: e-bikes powered by hub motors. AUTORQ, a company renowned for its torque-sensing technology, has emerged as an indispensable partner for companies venturing into this sector.

Prologo expands the 'Myown' family with an innovative sensor system based on textile sensors that can measure and map the pressure exerted on the saddle to find the ideal model for the athlete and his or her position on the bike in a few minutes and in a single session.

With the increasing popularity and growing trend of e-bikes, bicycle system suppliers have set goals to optimise power and performance of their drive systems. In order to support the driver in the best possible way, sensors are needed to deliver the required data and therefore adapt the engine's power support. An essential component is the ZF e-bike sensor for measuring the current speed, which is based on Hall technology with significant advantages over conventional reed switches.

RIEL, the Netherlands - Torque sensor developer, IDbike has ambitious plans to produce significantly more volume and become an OEM supplier of complete drive systems for e-bikes. To facilitate this the company is now looking for external investors to the value of €2 million.

REUTLINGEN, Germany - Of course it's focused on electric cars, but undoubtedly the company's fast-growing e-bike business will also benefit from the newest technology it is introducing. It's about microchips made of silicon carbide (SiC) that Bosch has developed.