DGAP-News: MIFA Mitteldeutsche Fahrradwerke AG / Key word(s): Product
Launch
MIFA develops chainless e-bike
02.10.2012 / 08:57
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MIFA develops chainless e-bike
Sangerhausen, 2 October, 2012 - MIFA Mitteldeutsche Fahrradwerke AG (WKN
A0B95Y, ISIN DE000A0B95Y8), Germany's largest manufacturer of bicycles in
terms of sales, has developed a new e-bike which dispenses entirely with
the chain. With this new type of electric bicycle, the energy from the
cyclist's muscular power is transferred purely electrically to the rear
wheel. This represents a complete and unique innovation in this form, as it
was only possible through a chain or shaft in previous models. The
technical phenomenon of so-called recuperation also comes to bear: the
energy that arises when braking is fed back to the battery, thereby
significantly boosting battery performance and consequently also travelling
distance.
'This development, which has delivered functionality to the generator/motor
principle, represents a top achievement,' commented Sandy Hille, engineer
at MIFA. The generator is operated by the pedal, using the energy generated
to drive the motor on the rear wheel. Compared with classic e-bikes, this
approach dispenses with the drive chain and gearshift - thereby offering
clear benefits: 'Since the performance electronics can be managed
intelligently, this bike can be ridden like a 'normal' bicycle - although
much more easily,' notes Hille. 'And what's more, the cyclist can set the
degree of electrical support without having to go through steps, which
further boosts riding comfort.'
Cyclists can also now save various ride profiles as required, which also
allows the travelling distance to be optimised. Communication is by means
of standard smart phones, which are connected with the cycle management
system via Bluetooth interface. This development is unique, since the
transfer of torsional moment functions purely electrically, and the gear
switch functions purely electronically. MIFA developed the X-PESA prototype
together with the IAI (Institut für Automatisierung und Informatik) GmbH
and the Harz University of Applied Sciences in Wernigerode. All requisite
proofs of functionality have already been successfully provided.
'The experiences we had with our partners in this project were very
positive,' was how Michael Hecken, head of marketing and strategy,
commented on the co-operation venture. 'We are particularly proud of the
fact that MIFA has entered new technical territory with this prototype.'
This new drive type will also significantly support MIFA in its sales
strategy: 'The innovative X-PESA system can be deployed exceptionally in
the growth market with multi-user vehicles - for instance, in major
metropolitan rental projects for which the drive, above all, should be
functional. With this prototype, we are also delivering product that the
premium specialised trade sector has long been waiting for: the chainless
bicycle.'
About the company:
MIFA Mitteldeutsche Fahrradwerke AG, which is based in Sangerhausen
(Saxony-Anhalt / Germany), is Germany's largest manufacturers of bicycles
in terms of sales. The company produces bicycles from supplied components,
whereby the focus is on project-related order production for large retail
chains. E-bikes have also been produced since 2011. MIFA also acquired the
majority of Berlin-based e-bike manufacturer GRACE GmbH & Co. SG in March
2012, which mainly produces premium-segment e-bikes. Among other customers,
GRACE produces the e-bike for automotive manufacturer Daimler (for the
smart brand). Outside Germany, MIFA sells its bicycles mainly in Western
Europe; in this context, both the operating business and administration and
logistics are managed at the company's sole production location in
Sangerhausen.
MIFA sold around 644,000 bicycles in 2011 (previous year: around 593,000).
In doing so, the company generated EUR 100.5 million of sales revenue,
representing a 31.4% increase compared with the previous year (EUR 76.5
million). On this revenue, the company achieved operating profit (EBIT) of
EUR 4.6 million (previous year: EUR 2.0 million), and net income stood at
EUR 2.0 million (previous year: EUR 0.3 million). Its shares are traded in
the Prime Standard on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange since July 17.
Contact:
Mark Appoh
cometis AG
Unter den Eichen 7
65195 Wiesbaden
Telephone: 0611-205855-21
Fax: 0611-205855-66
E-mail: appoh@cometis.de
End of Corporate News
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Language: English
Company: MIFA Mitteldeutsche Fahrradwerke AG
Kyselhäuser StraÃe 23
06526 Sangerhausen
Germany
Phone: 03464-5370
Fax: 03464-537251
E-mail: b.mirau@mifa.de
Internet: www.mifa.de
ISIN: DE000A0B95Y8
WKN: A0B95Y
Listed: Regulierter Markt in Frankfurt (Prime Standard);
Freiverkehr in Berlin, Hamburg, München (m:access),
Stuttgart
End of News DGAP News-Service
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187217 02.10.2012
DGAP-News: MIFA develops chainless e-bike
| Source: EQS Group AG