Well, we didn't expect it. The world's largest drone manufacturer, DJI, may be facing a ban in the US, but it's not whining – instead, a new official teaser and leaks suggest it's about to take a surprise step to compete with the best electric bikes.
A new teaser from DJI called “Power Your Ride” has just appeared on its official Instagram page, revealing that the official launch will take place on July 3 at 9am CEST (i.e. 12am PT / 8am BST / 5pm AEST). The promo also introduces a new brand called Amflow Bikes.
The teaser suggests that DJI will supply the e-bike’s powertrain with an electric unit called Avinox, and a few leaks elsewhere have filled in some of the blanks. A thread from regular DJI leaker @Quadro_News has revealed what appear to be marketing slides for the e-bike, suggesting that it will be a high-end e-MTB (electric mountain bike) designed to tackle steep inclines and downhill trails.
👉Strength: There are no more peaks unconquered: this electric bike can tackle the steepest slopes and the most challenging routes. Its powerful yet compact motor provides incredible traction, allowing you to conquer the peaks. #dji #djiebike pic.twitter.com/yoOIwyuUJhJuly 1, 2024
An additional post showing a DJI Avinox charger recharging the bike's battery states that the electric bike “is not just a means of transportation, but a high-tech tool for exploring and conquering mountain peaks.”
In a separate leak on X (formerly Twitter), @OsitaLV has posted some rumored specs for the DJI-powered electric bike. These suggest that the motor could be very powerful indeed, being a 250W unit capable of generating 105 Nm of torque and providing a boost of up to 20 mph / 25 km/h.
That would make it a higher-end option than our current pick for the title of best electric mountain bike, the Specialized Levo SL Expert Carbon eMTB. But thankfully we won't have to wait long for all the official specs and details on this fascinating offering from DJI.
Is DJI spreading its wings?
It’s unclear whether DJI had long-term plans to venture into e-bikes or if this is a response to the US bill that threatens to ground its drones in the US. Either way, it’s an interesting and exciting move for e-bike fans considering the technology DJI could bring to the table.
DJI Avinox’s part of the equation appears to be the full electric bike drive system, rather than just an electric motor, meaning it includes the battery and possibly some software integration. The launch coincides with the Eurobike 2024 show in Frankfurt, Germany, where the Amflow brand will be present.
Amflow’s profile page on the Eurobike exhibitor list says it will offer “the next-generation e-MTB experience for everyone” that will “integrate one of the most intelligent and powerful e-Drive systems on the market.” The e-bike will also apparently combine “maximum power with lightweight materials, cutting-edge technology with a focus on the natural and essential riding feel with seamless connectivity.”
With this kind of DJI-powered tech and those leaked powertrain specs, it's likely not going to be a cheap electric mountain bike. But the hope for many will be that the technology on display in this high-end flagship model can trickle down to more affordable and accessible electric bikes. Even if we don't ultimately get a flying electric bike to help us live our lives, AND Dreams.
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