Bridging smartphone and e-bike with IoT solution

Company

Promovec, based in Risskov, Aarhus, is a prominent supplier of e-bike components, providing batteries, motors, and controls for several well-known brands, including Nishiki, Christiania Bikes, and Raleigh. The company has established itself as a leader in the e-bike market, focusing on innovation and user experience.

Challenge

As the e-bike industry evolved, Promovec recognized a significant gap in user interaction with their products. Previously, the battery, motor, and controls of an e-bike functioned as a closed system, limiting user access to essential features and data. Modern consumers increasingly expect seamless integration of their devices with smartphones, seeking advanced functionalities that promote safety, efficiency, and customization.

Promovec faced several challenges in this endeavor:

• Compatibility: Integrating multiple components from various subcontractors while ensuring they could communicate effectively with a smartphone app.
• Interoperability: Developing a system that could function across different platforms (iOS and Android) while accommodating the variations in Bluetooth implementation by different vendors.
• User Experience: Creating a user-friendly interface that simplifies access to the bike’s features and real-time data.

Solution

To address these challenges, Promovec collaborated with EKTOS to develop the Connect+ system. This innovative solution bridges the gap between e-bikes and smartphones through a dedicated app, leveraging Bluetooth Low Energy technology for reliable wireless communication.

Jacob Nymann Petersen, Marketing Manager at Promovec, expressed his satisfaction with the partnership:
“Through collaborating with EKTOS, all our ambitions for the app have been fulfilled. EKTOS has been a skilled and competent partner, and we’ve had a lot of constructive meetings along the way. Working together has made us an even stronger company regarding software and app development.”

The Connect+ app allows users to:

• Remotely turn bike lights on and off
• Select Assist Levels and Bike Modes for optimized performance
• Automatically distribute battery power based on trip planning
• Access extensive performance data, enhancing the overall riding experience
• Connect with social networks to share experiences and insights

The app also enhances social connectivity, allowing users to share their biking experiences with like-minded individuals.

Result

The successful collaboration resulted in the launch of new Nishiki and Raleigh e-bike models equipped with the Connect+ display in April 2019. This innovation transformed the way users interact with their e-bikes, making it possible to access real-time data and customize settings on the go.

Alexander Liubimov, Project Director at EKTOS, elaborated on the impact of the Connect+ system:
“We can send real-time data from the bike to the user’s smartphone, allowing it to act as a sophisticated interface. This trend is becoming more common, showcasing the relevance of smartphone-based communication for IoT applications.”

The Connect+ system not only improved functionality but also encouraged community engagement among e-bike users, who can now easily connect with like-minded individuals through shared interests.

Are you ready to enhance your product offerings with innovative IoT solutions?

Contact EKTOS to learn how we can help your company develop next-generation technologies like the Connect+ system.

Reach out to us at info@ektos.net or call +45 7070 1499 to explore the possibilities.