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With the Urban X The Maisach-based company has adopted an unusual approach: all key driving functions are controlled via the pedals – Hepha calls this ‘Pedal-Only-Ride’. There are no gear levers or assistance modes whatsoever. Instead, an eCVT motor with continuously variable electronic gear changes handles the gear ratio fully automatically.
Dual-motor technology with a 400 per cent gear ratio
At the heart of the concept is the so-called eCVT (Electronic Continuously Variable Transmission) – an electronically controlled, continuously variable transmission that is integrated directly into the electric motor. The unit is supplied by the Chinese electric drive specialist Gobao. Click on this link for all the details about Gobao’s new motor-gearbox solution.
Unlike conventional e-bikes, where the motor and gearbox are separate components, the system uses dual-motor technology. The gear ratio adjusts automatically to the riding conditions and covers a range of 400 per cent. The cadence can be freely selected between 40 and 120 revolutions per minute without the rider having to intervene actively.
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The motor has a rated continuous power output of 250 watts and a top speed of 25 km/h – in line with the legal requirements for pedelecs. The maximum electrical power output is 1,000 watts.
Hepha is also breaking new ground when it comes to braking: in stop-and-go urban traffic, the system decelerates electrically via the mid-mounted motor, feeding energy back into the battery in the process. This so-called retarder system with energy recovery is used particularly frequently and takes the strain off the mechanical brakes. These only come into play during more forceful braking manoeuvres, which is intended to significantly reduce wear and tear. The aim is to manage entirely without manual braking in typical city traffic.
Ergonomics for the city
The seating position has been specifically redesigned for urban use. Unlike on sporty e-bikes, the rider sits lower and therefore closer to the ground. A bench seat is used instead of a traditional saddle. According to the manufacturer, this makes it easier to stay steady at traffic lights and during frequent stops and starts in city traffic.
To compensate for the biomechanical disadvantages that a lower seating position can entail when pedalling, the motor algorithm has been adjusted accordingly. Hepha refers to this as ‘stop-and-go ergonomics’, which is designed to make cycling in urban environments noticeably easier. The seat itself is available in various configurations and follows a unisex, one-size-fits-all design.
Fast charging and built-in safety
When it comes to charging, the Urban X relies on so-called ultra-fast charging: the 560-watt-hour battery is said to reach 80 per cent charge in 15 minutes. The 1.5-kilowatt charger is integrated directly into the bike – so there’s no need to carry external chargers. In future, it should also be possible to use public charging points, for example whilst out shopping or visiting a café. The battery is housed under the seat, with the charger positioned directly beneath it.
To protect against theft, Hepha combines an immobiliser called “2Lock” with an integrated alarm system. The system also features natively integrated GPS, GSM, NFC and Bluetooth for connectivity functions. “The innovation of the Urban X lies not in individual features, but in their seamless integration: maximum functionality with minimum complexity,” explains Alex Thusbass, Managing Director of Hepha.
Key technical specifications
- Drive: Hepha X motor, eCVT with fully automatic, continuously variable transmission, dual-motor technology, hardware from the Gobao X1
- Performance: 250 watts continuous rated power, 1,000 watts maximum electrical power, 25 km/h
- Translation: 400 per cent range, 40–120 rpm cadence
- Braking system: Retarder system with energy recovery (regenerative braking) and hydraulic disc brakes
- Battery: Li-ion, 560 Wh, removable
- Shop: Ultra-fast charging (80 per cent in 15 minutes), integrated 1.5 kW fast charger
- Safety: 2Lock immobiliser, integrated alarm system
- Connectivity: GPS, GSM, NFC, Bluetooth
- Wheels: 27.5 inches
- Status: Prototype featuring near-production technology
- Price: expected to be around 3,000 euros >> available here
The Urban X is currently at the prototype stage, featuring near-production technology. Hepha cites, amongst other things, enhancements to the braking system, cargo and luggage solutions, and multi-rider functions as areas of development. Despite its sophisticated technology and electronics, the bike is expected to cost less than 3,000 euros.
Florentin Vesenbeckh
Editor CvD
