In one of our previous articles, we discussed batteries and the role of microprocessors in the development of modern electric vehicles. A reader recently asked, "Is it really true that thanks to electronics, your battery can last more than eight years?" The answer is yes. Battery life depends heavily on how it's charged and discharged, its speed, intensity, and the power required at any given moment. But it’s not just the battery as a whole that's monitored — each individual cell is checked for wear and tear, and this data is processed in real time to determine the best performance mode for every situation. Whether you're accelerating from a stop, overtaking, or riding leisurely in the park, the system adapts instantly.
Imagine speeding up at a traffic light, then suddenly braking at an intersection, only to slow down again when a squirrel jumps onto the road. These unpredictable scenarios require immediate responses. If your e-bike hesitated for a second before moving, it would be frustrating. That’s why all these decisions are made programmatically and processed in real time. Think about the massive amount of data and variables involved — it’s quite complex. And when it comes to electric motors, things get even trickier. Their speed and torque are controlled by adjusting the electromagnetic field in their windings, which means we need a dedicated controller to manage them effectively.
In the past, electric motors were used for simple tasks like lifting a load with a winch. The algorithm was straightforward since the weight and speed were predictable. But with electric bikes, the conditions change constantly. You might accelerate quickly, brake suddenly, or adjust speed in response to obstacles. This requires advanced, fast control over the motor — something that electronics make possible.
So, in our Delfast bike, we have a smart battery that communicates with a smart motor controller. The higher the level of communication between them, the better the performance, longer battery life, and smoother operation. But there’s more to it. To start moving, you might use a throttle or a PAS system. How do you know how fast you want to go? Smooth or sudden? Again, the bike must detect the situation instantly and respond accordingly. For example, if a squirrel appears, the system should react immediately, sending the right signal to the battery and motor to avoid damage or a potential explosion.
Here’s a simplified block diagram of the system. As you can see, it’s not just a regular bike with an electric motor attached. It’s much more than that. Think of it as the difference between a potter’s wheel and a 3D printer. Both can make beautiful dishes, but a 3D printer offers far more possibilities. Similarly, an electric bike isn’t just a powered version of a bicycle — it’s a smart device that uses sensors, processors, and software to enhance your ride.
One key difference is the absence of pedals in the block diagram. While you can still pedal, the bike is designed to operate automatically, using the battery’s stored energy under the control of a processor. This makes it similar to your smartphone or laptop — a smart device on wheels. Just like your phone, an electric bike can integrate various functions, such as GPS, anti-theft systems, media players, and even cameras. These modules communicate through a bus, allowing for seamless integration and future expansion.
For example, a GPS module could calculate the best route based on battery life, or alert you when you’re low on charge and where you can find a charging station. Anti-theft systems could link with user identification, making the bike more personal and secure. With all these features working together, Delfast bikes are not just transportation — they're smart, connected, and ready for the future.
So, why is Delfast considered a professional-grade electric bike? That’s a question worth exploring further. Stay tuned for the next article.