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In this sponsored feature, BikeBiz looks at Yamaha’s PW-LINK system and how the brand is creating close relationships with OEMs.
A new era of industry co-development
The two-wheel world changed forever when Yamaha created the world’s first production eBike in 1993. Providing instant drive, the company’s revolutionary Power Assist System (PAS) added an extra dimension to the cycling experience, enabling riders to enjoy a whole new feeling of freedom while retaining the essential enjoyment of riding. Three decades later this innovative Japanese company is about to take another leap forward with the introduction of its PW-LINK system: a whole new concept in eBike co-development that will benefit manufacturers, dealers and riders.
PW-LINK: Transforming the eBike development process
Yamaha is constantly looking for new ways to offer its industry partners even stronger support in the development of next generation eBikes, and the company’s new PW-LINK system is designed to create even closer relationships with many OEM manufacturers. Based on CAN-Open communication protocol, the new platform links the solutions between Yamaha and its partners, and through standardised exchange of Electronic Data Sheets, bike manufacturers can engage proactively in the eBike system integration.
Major supplier of eKits to industry partners
Yamaha has built up a wealth of experience as a major supplier of eKits to industry partners within the European market. The company’s light, compact and powerful PWseries drive units are renowned for their seamless acceleration and high levels of reliability, and Yamaha displays and batteries offer OEM manufacturers a good choice of options for MTB, Gravel and Urban applications.
Enhanced functionality and reduced lead times
By offering each partner the opportunity to take on a more proactive role right from initial concept through to final production model, the new PW-Link System has the potential to enhance the functionality of each solution and represents a significant move forward. Working as a fully integrated partner with each individual OEM brand, Yamaha is in a unique position to offer tailor made solutions that have the potential to transform the new model development process, as well as increase efficiency and reduce lead times from prototype to production.
How PW-LINK works
During the co-development of future eBikes with the PW-LINK system, Yamaha will retain control of specifications for core areas related to the performance & reliability of the Power Assist System. Famed for their high torque together with instant response and intuitive feeling, Yamaha’s light and compact PWseries drive units offer industry partners a diverse range of solutions for each eBike segment.
OEM manufacturers can specify Yamaha genuine batteries or approved products from selected partners, and Yamaha’s range of intuitive precision-made display units completes the package.
Incorporating the latest eBike technology
A significant feature of the PW-LINK system is that it also enables industry partners to incorporate the very latest technology from Yamaha including dual-drive, electronic power steering, safety and security features and more.
This standardised development environment also enables European eBike manufacturers to co-develop exclusive solutions with their own selected partners – opening up new possibilities in areas including IoT, ABS, GPS, and electronic/automatic transmission – as well as smart locks and smart lights.
