Bosch eBike Systems Introduces the First Hub Motor E-Bikes Improve Urban Mobility

Urban spaces are increasingly transforming from gray concrete landscapes to green living areas. Streets are often reduced in favor of bike paths, pedestrian zones, and green spaces. In Germany, Hamburg is considered a pioneer in this regard. No wonder Bosch eBike Systems chose the Hanseatic city in mid-June 2026 to present its new e-bike technologies for urban areas to the press.

Greener inner cities, more space for outdoor dining and playgrounds, less noise, and improved quality of life through fewer cars – Germany also aims to establish low-car zones. However, access to key locations and the ability to move quickly from A to B must still be ensured. In addition to public transportation, e-bikes can play a major role in replacing car journeys.

The study "Further, steeper, greener: Implications from an electric bicycle mode choice model," published earlier this year, clearly showed that 43.1 percent of all e-bike trips would have been made by car if the electric two-wheeler had not been available. Additionally, 63.2 percent of the kilometers traveled by e-bike would have otherwise been car journeys. This means that e-bikes not only replace traditional bicycles but, in many cases, directly replace cars.

Model Year 2027

The e-bike has become an essential means of transportation for city dwellers, helping them run errands in the city or commute to work. On weekends, especially in pleasant summer weather, it’s perfect for planning a day trip. For a smooth riding experience and reliable support in the city, the right technology is essential—and it comes from Bosch. The supplier has expanded its portfolio and presented its new products to the press. At the center of the 2027 model year is the Hub Line, a lightweight hub motor specifically developed for the needs of urban e-bikes. Together with the new PowerTube 360 battery, it ensures lightweight and portable bikes. The urban portfolio is rounded off by the new ConnectModule for smart theft protection, the new LED controller for intuitive operation, and the Intuvia 200 display.

First-Ever Hub Motor

Until now, Bosch eBike Systems has been known for its mid-mounted motors—now the company is launching its first hub motor with the Hub Line. Delivering 45 Nm (approx. 33 lb-ft) of torque, it provides "sprightly yet sensitive" assistance right from the start. Thanks to a smart sensor function, the assistance remains precisely controlled, ensuring agile handling, making situations like starting at traffic lights or tackling moderate inclines effortless. At speeds over 25 km/h (15.5 mph), the motor fully disengages, allowing the e-bike to ride almost like a traditional bicycle with virtually no pedaling resistance. Weighing approximately 2.3 kg (approx. 5 lbs), the motor ensures the bike can still be carried without any issues. With a diameter of around 100 mm (approx. 3.9 inches), the motor integrates discreetly into the hub.

Battery Technology in Focus

Bosch also introduced new battery technology in Hamburg. The PowerTube 360 is the company's slimmest battery yet, with a diameter of 68 mm (approx. 2.7 inches) and a weight of about 2.1 kg (approx. 4.6 lbs). With 360 Wh, the battery reliably provides energy for daily urban use and ranges of over 80 km (approx. 50 miles). For longer trips, it can be extended through the DualBattery system, for instance, with the PowerMore 250 Range Extender. Additionally, the supplier unveiled the PowerTube 720. This battery weighs approximately 3.9 kg (approx. 8.6 lbs) and achieves an energy density of about 185 Wh/kg. Depending on the mode and conditions, distances of up to 185 kilometers (approx. 115 miles) are possible. Its design allows for deeper integration into the frame, lowering the e-bike’s center of gravity and providing more balanced handling as well as an improved sense of stability—for example, when riding with heavy panniers.

Smaller LED Controller

With the new LED controller, Bosch unveiled the successor to the LED Remote. The new control unit is about 65 percent smaller than its predecessor, standing out particularly for its ergonomics. All five buttons are within thumb reach and provide tactile and audible feedback. This allows riders to switch support modes, activate the walk assist, or safely control the lights without taking their eyes off the road. The LEDs clearly display information such as the riding mode and battery status, while a sensor automatically adjusts their brightness to the ambient light—ensuring optimal readability both day and night.

Theft is Significantly More Difficult

E-bikes are expensive, and the fear of theft plays a significant role in the decision of whether to purchase one, especially if there’s no secure parking option available. In response, Bosch eBike Systems has developed a solution that adds another layer to the digital theft protection within the smart system. Stolen e-bikes or batteries can be marked as stolen in the eBike Flow app. This feature is available within the eBike Flow app.

How does it work? When an e-bike or battery is marked as stolen, this is visible throughout the entire digital ecosystem of Bosch eBike Systems. This makes reselling significantly more difficult and increases the chances of recovering the e-bike. Buyers of used bikes, dealers, and authorities receive a warning notification when attempting to connect with the e-bike through the eBike Flow app—including the serial numbers of the components marked as stolen. The connection to the app is permanently blocked. Over-the-air updates or individual adjustments to the riding modes are no longer possible. Additionally, dealers are alerted in Bosch eBike Systems’ diagnostic software if they connect the e-bike for service.

This is made possible by the digital allocation principle of the smart system. All components of an e-bike—motor, battery, display—are uniquely registered and linked to a specific user profile. If the user marks the bike or battery as stolen, this information is centrally stored and accessible throughout the digital ecosystem of Bosch eBike Systems. The eBike Flow app, the DiagnosticTool, and Bosch support all access the same data. The digital marking can only be removed by the registered user profile.

Additionally, the supplier has enhanced the functionalities of the Bosch ConnectModule with precise location tracking using Bluetooth Low Energy technology. In case the bike is stolen, the module enables it to be located with an accuracy of just a few meters. This allows the bike to be found even in places where a standard GPS signal would fail—such as in basements or courtyards.

Used e-bikes: Bosch certificate makes systems' condition transparent

Used e-bikes are more affordable, making them attractive to potential buyers. However, these buyers often wonder about the condition of pre-owned models. More transparency is desired in this area. With "Certified by Bosch," the company is introducing a digital certification for the used market. The certificate digitally verifies the condition of the battery and drive system of the smart system, displays key information about the model, and confirms that the e-bike has not been reported as stolen in the eBike Flow app. Starting in July 2026, refurbishment specialist Rebike will certify all e-bikes with Bosch systems and issue them with the "Certified by Bosch" certificate as the first partner. Beginning in early 2027, the certificate will also assist bike retailers in selling pre-owned models.