DJI criticizes the limitation of power and charge against the sector

DJI has issued a strong response to the recommendation of the German association Zweirad Industrie Verband (ZIV) to limit the maximum power of electric motors for bicycles to 750W. The company questions this proposal, stating that it lacks solid theoretical foundations and suggests the need for a broader and more nuanced discussion.

DJI disagrees with a possible power limitation and charges against the sector

Chinese manufacturer DJI has in its catalog the Avinox system, perhaps the best rated at the moment for eMTB. But its power, recently updated to 1000W, is at the center of controversy regarding the new European regulations that could be implemented.

DJI suggests that this measure could be driven by economic interests to favor manufacturers, such as the German Bosch, whose recent update of the gen 5 CX motor reaches exactly 750W (the maximum power that could be imposed by law).

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DJI also severely criticized certain commercial practices in the sector, indirectly referring to Specialized, which limits the performance of motors in more affordable models, reserving maximum power exclusively for premium versions.

The Chinese brand insisted that the specific needs of certain vulnerable groups, such as users with disabilities, higher body weight, minors, or users of e-cargo bikes, should not be ignored by such a generalized power limit.

Below are the 8 main points of DJI's official statement translated literally:

1. "The proposed restriction of 750W does not seem to have a clear theoretical basis to justify why this limit has been specifically chosen. We believe it is essential for the industry to engage in more thorough and comprehensive discussions to determine an appropriate power limit."
2. "Imposing a 750W limit may ignore the needs of certain vulnerable groups, including people with disabilities who require more assistance, those with higher body weights, minors, and users of e-cargo bikes that carry loads, often up to 400 kg, needing additional support on steep terrain. We urge policymakers to consider these unique requirements in their deliberations."
3. "Our pursuit of improved power is driven by the goal of enhancing the riding experience (maintaining a balance between wear and the cost of easily worn components), rather than simply increasing power for its own sake. For example, the power of the Avinox is intelligently modulated, automatically decreasing power and torque during gear changes. This strategy extends the life of the transmission system, ensuring an optimal balance between performance, safety, and reliability."
4. "It is crucial to remain critical of certain practices within the industry that exploit user needs, where certain manufacturers differentiate their products by imposing subscription-based fees or offering superior performance or features exclusively for premium models, despite using identical hardware components. They mainly profit through software limitations. This highlights the critical importance of prioritizing the real needs of the user and maintaining transparency in product offerings."
5. "We recognize the need for more adaptable solutions for eMTB users, including power modes based on scenarios and user-adjustable settings, features that we have successfully developed and implemented. These allow adapting the power mode (including the highest setting) to variable situational demands, improving the riding experience within legal speed limits."
6. "We are closely monitoring EU regulations and committed to adhering to established guidelines. We are also committed to supporting our users in the face of regulatory changes that may affect our products. In such cases, we will ensure that our end users and OEM bike brands have access to the necessary resources and guidance to adapt."
7. "Avinox represents more than just power; its innovation is reflected in features such as compact size, lightweight design, impressive power-to-weight ratio, seamless integration between software and hardware, advanced intelligent assistance algorithms, high-capacity lightweight batteries, fast charging capability, and more. All these elements underline our commitment to improving the user experience and exemplify our dedication to innovation."
8. "Since its launch, Avinox has quickly received praise from OEM bike brands, users, and prominent media and organizations, underscoring the importance of the industry listening to these voices."