Dr. Naomi Lin
German company ZF Automotive, known for its expertise in marine propulsion systems, industrial gearboxes, and robotics motors, is now venturing into the cycling industry. With a workforce of over 168,700 employees worldwide and reported sales of €46.6 billion in 2023, ZF Automotive is ready to make its mark in the cycling world.
To cater to the growing popularity of eMTBs, urban bikes, and gravel bikes, ZF Automotive has developed two drive units using an innovative strain-wave gearing system. This unique system allows for a compact nested construction around the bottom bracket, seamlessly integrating into the bike’s frame.
The first drive unit, the ZF CentriX 70, delivers an impressive 75 Nm of torque with a peak power of 450 W. For those seeking even more power, the CentriX 90 offers 90 Nm of torque and a peak power of 600 W. While the CentriX 90 is already being showcased on new eMTBs from Bergstrom and Raymon at events such as Eurobike, it is not yet available for production.
What sets these drive units apart from competitors like Shimano and Bosch is their compact footprint. ZF Automotive’s strain-wave gearing system allows for a concentric layout, eliminating the need for a bulky oval shape. This not only reduces weight but also provides improved torque-to-weight ratios, making the CentriX 90 an attractive option for e-bike enthusiasts.
While there are similarities with other companies’ technologies, ZF Automotive aims to differentiate itself from TQ and FreeFlow Technologies. Unfortunately, details about these differences have yet to be revealed.
One of the notable features of the ZF CentriX drive units is their ability to deliver power even at low cadences. Riders can expect the motor to provide peak power with a cadence range of just 60-80 rpm, compared to other motors that require higher cadences. This impressive performance ensures a smooth and powerful ride experience for cyclists.
In addition to the drive units, ZF Automotive offers complete e-bike ecosystems. These include a range of batteries, a top tube mounted controller, a display, a wireless remote, and a user-friendly app. Compatibility and convenience are prioritised, with the top tube controller even featuring charging ports with USB-C and Lightning adaptor options, allowing riders to charge their devices directly from the bike’s battery.
The ZF CentriX 90 will be making its debut on the Raymon Tarok Ultra, poised to be the world’s first production eMTB featuring this advanced drive unit. Boasting 160mm of rear wheel travel and a lightweight full carbon frame, the Tarok Ultra offers exceptional performance and durability. With four models to choose from, the starting price for the Tarok Ultra will be €6,299, making it an enticing option for eMTB enthusiasts looking for cutting-edge technology.
As ZF Automotive expands into the cycling industry, their drive units and comprehensive e-bike ecosystems are set to revolutionise the way we ride, providing cyclists with powerful, efficient, and reliable solutions. With their expertise in various industries, ZF Automotive brings a fresh perspective to the world of e-bikes and sets the stage for exciting advancements in the future.
ZF Automotive’s venture into the cycling industry comes at a time when the market is experiencing significant growth. The global e-bike market is projected to reach $46.04 billion by 2026, with a compound annual growth rate of 10.3% from 2019 to 2026. This presents a lucrative opportunity for ZF Automotive to establish its presence in the industry.
With their innovative strain-wave gearing system, ZF Automotive’s drive units offer a unique selling point compared to competitors like Shimano and Bosch. The compact nested construction and concentric layout not only reduce weight but also provide improved torque-to-weight ratios, enhancing the performance of e-bikes. This technological advancement is expected to attract e-bike enthusiasts who value power and efficiency.
ZF Automotive aims to differentiate itself from other companies in the market, such as TQ and FreeFlow Technologies. While specific details about these differences have not been disclosed, ZF Automotive’s reputation in other industries suggests that they bring a unique approach to e-bike technology.
One of the notable features of ZF Automotive’s drive units is their ability to deliver power even at low cadences. This is a significant advantage for cyclists, as it provides a smooth and powerful ride experience even at lower pedalling speeds. Other motors in the market may require higher cadences to achieve peak power, making ZF Automotive’s drive units a desirable option for riders who prefer a more relaxed pedalling style.
In addition to the drive units, ZF Automotive offers a comprehensive e-bike ecosystem, including batteries, controllers, displays, remotes, and an intuitive app. This ecosystem is designed for compatibility and convenience, with features like USB-C and Lightning charging ports on the top tube controller, allowing riders to charge their devices directly from the e-bike’s battery. These additional offerings enhance the overall user experience and make ZF Automotive’s e-bike solutions even more appealing to consumers.
The highly anticipated debut of the ZF CentriX 90 on the Raymon Tarok Ultra eMTB signifies ZF Automotive’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge technology to the market. With its advanced drive unit and exceptional performance features, the Tarok Ultra is poised to capture the attention of eMTB enthusiasts. With a starting price of €6,299, this eMTB offers a compelling option for riders looking for top-of-the-line technology and performance.
As ZF Automotive expands into the cycling industry, their drive units and comprehensive e-bike ecosystems have the potential to revolutionise the way we ride. With their expertise in various industries and their commitment to innovation, ZF Automotive is poised to drive exciting advancements in the e-bike market. Cyclists can look forward to powerful, efficient, and reliable solutions that enhance their riding experience.
