1500 watts and 150 Nm: New DJI motor pushes e-bike limits

This new release is likely to cause discussions: DJI is launching the second generation of its Avinox drive system for e-bikes. And this pushes the boundaries of what an e-bike can do even further. The motor will appear in two variants, the more powerful of which, according to manufacturer DJI, achieves a maximum peak power of 1500 watts and a maximum torque of up to 150 Nm. For the first time, DJI will also offer the Avinox motors with a swappable battery.

DJI manufactures the second generation of Avinox drives in two versions, the M2 and M2S. The latter is the more powerful variant with up to 1500 watts of short-term peak power – with an allowed continuous rated power of 250 watts – and a maximum torque of up to 150 Nm. The weaker motor also delivers a proud 1100 watts peak with up to 125 Nm of torque. The most powerful motors from many other manufacturers are in the range of 750 watts/100 Nm.

Even the DJI first-generation model with its 1000 watts of peak power and 120 Nm of torque had caused discussions in the industry and raised the question of voluntary regulation. The industry association ZIV had proposed a maximum support power of 750 watts. Claus Fleischer, head of the e-bike division at market leader Bosch, warned in an interview with c't, "with such motors, we are moving further and further away from the bicycle, and thus we as an industry risk that e-bikes will be regulated by the EU." DJI, in turn, had emphasized that it saw no basis for a power limitation to 750 watts. The second generation of Avinox motors underscores this stance.

DJI continues to build the motors compactly and lightweight at 2.59 and 2.65 kg, respectively. Despite the increased power, the manufacturer promises a quiet drive that should produce a maximum sound pressure level of ≤ 45 dBA. The M2S is also equipped with a temperature sensor and cooling fins, which, according to the manufacturer, leads to a significant improvement in heat dissipation and reduces energy losses.

The drive system includes three different batteries. The FP700 is a 3.18 kg, permanently integrated 700 Wh unit, which is said to charge from 0 to 80 percent in 76 minutes. Two other batteries (600 & 800 Wh) complete the system, both of which can be removed for charging. The smaller 600 Wh unit can also be used externally on the frame as a second battery.

In addition to the new motor, DJI is also giving the drive new displays and revamping the app. It can be paired with a heart rate monitor. According to the manufacturer's press release, riders can set a target heart rate range, and the support power will be adjusted to keep the heart rate within the defined range. The new drive units, batteries, and touchscreens are compatible with the previous generation and, according to DJI, interchangeable. DJI lists 60 partners who use the Avinox drive. These include, in addition to its own brand Amflow, manufacturers such as Canyon, Commencal, Pivot, Raymon, Rotwild, and Steppenwolf.

DJI itself will initially install the new motor in four different Amflow mountain bikes. The entry-level model is the PR Carbon for 4500 euros, while the top model PX Carbon Pro costs 10,000 euros.

(rbr)