Bosch smart e-bike system: Using AI to combat range anxiety
Bosch is using AI to enhance its smart system for e-bikes. The AI functions could be particularly useful when it comes to range.
(Image: Bosch)
Bosch is expanding its Smart System for e-bikes with a "Range Control" function that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to determine the remaining battery range and predict the battery level at which the e-bike will arrive at its destination. It is now also possible to set a minimum battery level at the destination.
AI takes away range anxiety
Range Control is designed to take away range anxiety when planning a route. This is because an AI determines approximately how high the battery level will be when the biker arrives at their destination. According to Bosch, various data is used to make a precise prediction. This includes the total weight of the e-bike and rider, the altitude profile of the route and individual riding behavior. The system considers how the last few rides were completed. The prediction is continuously updated during the ride. The current riding style is taken into account. Bosch promises that the predictions will become increasingly accurate over time.
In addition, with the update of the Flow app for Android and iOS and the smart system, the minimum battery level at the destination can be determined. This works, for example, if the battery cannot be recharged there for the onward journey and the remaining range is still required. The system then automatically manages the energy output to the electric motor. The e-biker is informed in advance via the Flow app about how much support will be provided during the ride: full, low or very low support. This should enable bikers to arrive at their destination with a battery reserve.
AI is also used in the revised route planning, which calculates the expected arrival time in advance. Previous riding behavior on similar routes is taken into account to create a better forecast. The personal route suggestions are made based on previous trips. The system considers which road types, which surface and which gradients are preferred and the speed at which the rider drives. The system uses this information to calculate a route recommendation.
Additional functions for Flow+ subscribers
The display has been revised for Bosch Smartes systems with Kiox displays. The navigation is shown better on the display. "Extended navigation" not only shows the route and turn-offs, but also side roads on Kiox 300 and Kiox 500 displays. This should provide better orientation.
If you are charging the battery, you can also check the charge status via the Flow app using the "Current charge status" function. However, the "Advanced navigation" and "Current charge level" functions are only available to subscribers of the paid Flow+ subscription. Flow+ is free for the first year, after which it costs €39.99 per year or €4.99 per month.
Increase range with Eco+
The Eco+ mode has been added to the existing selection of driving modes. According to Bosch, it is designed to increase the range significantly. This is achieved by partially switching off the assistance provided by the electric motor - for example when driving on flat terrain. On climbs or when overtaking, the motor continues to provide assistance. An activation threshold can be set in the Flow app to determine when the motor should become active.
The update for the Flow app and the Bosch Smart System is available now. On iOS, the Flow app update can be forced by searching for the app in the Apple App Store and then pressing "Update". On Android, the update will gradually become available to users in Google Play. Once the Flow app has been updated, the system update can be triggered. All new functions will only be available after installation.
(olb)