DJI criticizes widespread power limitations and exploitative industry practices in an official statement concerning potential e-bike motor legislation.
In the midst of motor wars within the cycling industry, Chinese motor brand DJI has issued a sharp statement in response to the German bike industry body, Zweirad Industrie Verband (ZIV), recommending a cap on electric motor power at 750W. The proposal, which is yet to become law in the EU, has breathed fresh controversy into the sector.
DJI, the manufacturer behind the trailblazing Avinox motor, contends that the advisory 750W limit lacks a sound theoretical basis and calls for a more comprehensive evaluation to determine acceptable power output limits. The company's concerns come as certain industry insiders perceive the suggested legislation as a ploy to bolster German manufacturers' competitive edge, given Bosch's latest power upgrade for its gen 5 CX motor aligns with the proposed 750W ceiling.
The Amflow PL Carbon, launched last July, has caused quite a stir in the e-bike market.
The statement reveals DJI's strong reservations about certain industry practices that exploit user needs. Specifically, the charge is leveled at specific manufacturers, who differentiate their products via premium models or subscription-based fees, offering superior performance or features exclusive to the higher-priced models. DJI's accusations echo the criticism faced by Specialized, which rolled out two versions of its Turbo Levo motor, offering full performance only with the ultra-premium S-Works model.
In addition, DJI emphasizes the needs of e-cargo bikes, vulnerable user groups, and the importance of developing technology to modulate power, reduce component wear, and ensure product reliability. Recognizing the nuances within the sector, DJI advocates for a more nuanced classification system for e-bike categories and standards.
It's important to reiterate that, under EPAC (electric pedal-assist cycles) rules, e-bikes may only assist human pedaling input up to 25kph, and the inclusion of any kind of throttle is prohibited.
Recent updates to the Avinox motor and firmware have brought about innovative features such as full-time access to 1,000W peak power, expanded user-configurable settings, and support for e-bike lights, among others. DJI maintains its commitment to adhering to established guidelines while supporting its users with any regulatory changes affecting its products. DJI is firmly dedicated to innovation and enhancing the e-bike riding experience.
- DJI, expressing their reservations about certain industry practices, criticizes specific manufacturers for utilizing premium models or subscription-based fees to offer exclusive features and superior performance, similar to Specialized's Turbo Levo motor.
- The company, in their statement, advocates for a more nuanced classification system for e-bike categories and standards, emphasizing the needs of e-cargo bikes, vulnerable user groups, and the importance of developing technology to modulate power, reduce component wear, and ensure product reliability, all while adhering to established guidelines and supporting innovation in e-bike technology.
