Taiwanese firm Acer has developed an AI-driven single-motor e-bike that uses an intelligent vehicle control box to adapt automatically to route conditions, pedalling power and rider preferences.

The Acer Ebii houses everything needed for an enjoyable and effortless ride. EbiiAssist automatically adapts to route conditions, pedalling power and rider preferences for a smoother journey. Its long-lasting battery, smart safety features and lightweight design help users navigate through city streets while leaving a smaller carbon footprint.

“The all-new Acer Ebii delivers on our commitment to sustainability via technology and creative design, further driven by the desire to enhance user’s mobility and experiences,” said Jerry Kao, co-COO at Acer. “As urban commuters search for convenient, safe and greener options, the Acer Ebii’s AI assistance and innovative safety features empower them to go further, faster. Acer’s debut into the e-bike market brings together work from Acer’s subsidiaries, like MPS Energy’s power system and Xplova’s cycling computing. The cornerstone of the Ebii’s design is the intelligent vehicle control box, which powers and directs the bike’s myriad of functions from one centre of operations.”

The signature modular architecture fits the battery pack and control box into a compact intelligent vehicle control box. Its design enables easy charging and battery transport, simple upkeep, and stress-free upgradability.

The wheel set at the motor position has a single-sided fork design and a 250/350W motor with 48V Can bus and 40Nm torque performance, enabling assisted riding of up to 25km per hour, and can be configured as a front, centre or rear hub according to the rider’s needs.

The EbiiAssist function adapts to the rider’s pedalling power, riding conditions and preferred level of assistance, while intelligently adapting over time for a more personalised experience. During rides, the controller leverages AI technology to adjust motor output automatically to provide effortless riding based on users’ pedalling and route environment.

The AI also harnesses big data and collects user insights through the EbiiGo companion app. Riders can connect their phone to their e-bike via Bluetooth, then use EbiiGo to check recommended routes, battery life, riding speed, auto-unlock settings and more.

They can also access EbiiRide, an adaptive mission control app that works with EbiiAssist to ensure riders never run out of power on the road. EbiiRide offers three modes for users to choose from to suit their riding preferences: Eco Mode for power-saving; My Ebii Mode for smart balance; and Boost Mode for speed and motor output adjustments based on the current road conditions and distance to the destination.

The durable and removable battery can run for up to 110km and charges up to 100% battery life in 2.5 hours, while AI-optimised power distribution helps extend the battery life to support a full day’s ride. It is built with a design from MPS Energy, which uses a unique cell layout and holder for charge protection and safety. The fast-charging battery has gone through testing and certification approvals to increase reliability and security.

Users can remove the battery pack, which can function as a portable charger for other devices. A handle can also be attached to the battery for carrying it on the go. Riders can check the battery’s power supply via EbiiGo or the handlebars’ smart LED display for alerts such as remaining travel time.

The headlight and taillight automatically illuminate in the dark, with additional lighting under the vehicle control box to increase visibility during night-time riding. A rear-collision-warning radar sensor under the seat alerts the rider of motorists or objects approaching from behind. The crash detection and e-bike health status notification feature also provide riders with peace of mind and improves trip planning during.

Weighing 16kg, the aluminium alloy frame is optimised for a stable and nimble riding experience. The semi-transparent headlight adds to the visual identity, while the LED display at the centre of the handlebars shows essential information for riders when navigating to their destinations.

The airless tyres are safe for high-speed riding as they are made with multilayer foam inserts installed to recreate the feeling of moving through the wind and eliminating the worry of flat tyres. They are made from closed-loop recyclable materials. The rust-free carbon belt drive requires no lubrication for maintenance. The removable battery pack lets riders swap batteries on-the-go and conduct upgrades without having to replace the entire bike structure.