Höganäs launches unique bicycle motor

Höganäs has launched a new generation of electric motors, especially developed to suit electric bikes and light vehicles. The motor combines lower weight and more compact design with high performance, thanks to the use of metal powder technology. The launch took place in Shanghai during the World Expo, as the electric bike market is growing most rapidly in China and other Asian countries. The driving force is the demand for cost efficient, flexible and environmentally friendly means of transportation.

In connection with the inauguration of the Swedish pavilion at the World Expo in Shanghai this week, Höganäs AB has launched a new motor for electric bicycles, particularly aimed for China and other Asian markets. The motor is made using metal powder components, which enables a unique combination of low cost, low weight and high performance.

“We chose the bicycle motor as a first application when introducing our new motor concept. The bicycle motor is very challenging, in terms of performance as well as cost, but we are confident that we have a unique product. It is lighter than other electric motors and in the e-bike it has a good range, up to 75 kilometres, thanks to high efficiency”, Höganäs Group CEO Alrik Danielson comments.

“The e-bike motor is a good example of the Power of Powder. It is a highly efficient and very compact motor for direct drive applications. By combining high power per mass with a modular design, the motor is suitable for a wide range of applications in addition to electric bikes, such as scooters, other light electric vehicles, pumps, fans and generators”, Alrik Danielson continues.

The motor has been developed to minimise the environmental impact. The stator is based on metal powder manufactured from metal scrap, and the motor design allows a very efficient recycling. Furthermore, it uses less rare earth magnets and copper-wire than comparable conventional electric motors.

During the autumn of 2010 Höganäs will market this unique motor concept towards end users in various suitable application segments starting with the bicycle industry. Höganäs intends to license and subcontract the production of the motors.

“With this bike motor, we want to show that we have the technology to support innovative electric motor applications development, By introducing it at the World Expo Höganäs wishes to contribute to the image of Swedish industry as entrepreneurial and innovative.” says Alrik Danielson.

www.hoganas.com

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