INTERVIEW
Systems, as we’ve traditionally been known for lightweight hub-drive solutions like the X20 and XS. The M40 combines high torque, low weight, and compact design, earning recognition among the top mid-drive systems on the market. “The decision to enter the mid-drive segment was strategic. While our hub systems already cover road, gravel, urban, and kids’ e-bikes, mountain biking remained the major category missing from our portfolio. Riders in this segment demand high power delivery and maximum control on technical terrain, requirements that a light hub motor cannot fully meet. By introducing the M40, we can now offer a complete ecosystem: from ultra-light urban, road and gravel bikes to full power eMTBs, all under one brand.” But that doesn’t mean they’re going to shut the door on hub
drive systems. “At the same time, we continue to innovate in hub systems.
The XS system, launched in late 2024, is an ultra-compact, minimalist solution with only the essentials: a 171 Wh external battery, intelligent controller, and rear hub motor. “Thanks to its simplicity, XS has won major design awards and is already integrated into diverse e-bikes, from kids’ models to commuters and folding e-bikes, proving that electrification can be seamless without changing a bike’s character.” It’s plain to see that there is a big market for lightweight systems, particularly in road, commuter and urban e-bikes. Previously, that came at the expense of higher torque values, but as technologies become more efficient, brands like Mahle are able to deliver upgrades to existing systems. “And for performance-driven riders, the X20 system remains the lightest e-bike system on the market. Soon, we’ll release a free upgrade for current X20 users, increasing torque from 55 Nm to 65 Nm and peak power from 250 W to 275 W, all while preserving its natural, lightweight ride feel. This reinforces our commitment to continuous improvement and rider experience. “Together, these developments position MAHLE Smartbike Systems as one of the few manufacturers able to deliver intelligent, lightweight, and connected e-bike systems across every category.”
And with new technology comes the need for more
knowledge from workshops across the world. While some manufacturers prefer to handle all warranty or diagnostics themselves, Mahle has launched a dealer training programme to enable a smoother customer experience if they encounter any issues. “The Smart Training programme is much more than a technical course; it is a complete pathway designed to empower UK dealers with the confidence, knowledge, and visibility they need to thrive in an increasingly competitive e-bike market. Through a series of in-person sessions, dealers are guided step by step to become MAHLE Certified Partner PROs.
30 | November 2025
Above: Training locations and dates. Bottom: Mahle’s SmartBike Lab App
“This certification is not just a badge of technical competence, but a mark of trust that signals to riders that their local shop is fully equipped to service the latest MAHLE systems, from our lightweight X-series hub motors to the new M-series mid-drive platform.” For some, it might just appear to be yet another hoop to jump through in order to be able to service these types of systems. But Mahle says it’s not launching this programme to
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