When you hear the name "Switch Mobility," Ashok Leyland's electric vehicle arm might come to mind, renowned for its work in the EV sector. But there's another Switch Mobility in the electric vehicle space—this one, a Bangalore-based startup, is pioneering an indigenously developed smart system for electric bicycles that not only enhances efficiency but also promotes health.
Transforming e-cycles
Switch Mobility, founded in 2019 by a group of young engineers from CMR Institute of Technology and Sir M. Vishweshwarya Institute of Technology, is on a mission to revolutionise the e-cycle industry with its advanced drivetrain system. Unlike conventional systems that often result in wasted energy, Switch Mobility's innovative solution offers true pedal assistance. This system intelligently syncs with the rider's efforts, maximizing battery efficiency and nearly doubling the range of e-cycles—a leap from the typical 100% efficiency to an impressive 197%.
The core components of their system include a proprietary power sensor and an advanced control unit. The power sensor, manufactured in-house, measures the actual effort exerted by the rider, allowing for precise energy distribution. This contrasts with the basic cadence sensors found in most Indian e-cycles, which merely detect pedal movement without accounting for the rider’s actual exertion. The control unit then processes this data in real-time, ensuring that energy is only used when necessary, leading to significant energy savings and a smoother ride.
Looking ahead
"We’re the first in India to develop these intelligent parts and drivetrain systems for e-bikes," says one of the co-founders. Their journey began with a simple electric skateboard during their college days, which sparked the idea of creating something bigger. Years later, after quitting their jobs and fueled by government grants, they’ve established a startup that’s now in talks with potential customers and investors.
Currently, the company is focused on supplying its drivetrain systems to bicycle manufacturers, like Hero Cycles, but their ambitions extend beyond this. While producing their own bicycles is a distant goal, they are already working on a more premium mid-drive system—a centralised drivetrain that's poised to set a new standard in the industry.
As they prepare to enter the market with pilot projects, Switch Mobility exemplifies innovation, demonstrating that homegrown solutions can compete with and even surpass existing technologies. With their smart system, they are not just building better e-cycles—they're building a healthier future for riders.
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