Chinese Firms Reveal Innovative E-Bike Motors Eliminating Manual Gear Shifts

• June 30, 2026

At Eurobike 2026 in Frankfurt, two Chinese manufacturers unveiled groundbreaking electric motor innovations poised to transform electric bicycles equipped with pedal-assist systems. The new motors integrate the electric drive and transmission into a single central unit, potentially eliminating the need for traditional manual gear controls.

Integrated Motor Gearbox Unit Simplifies E-Bike Design

The presenting companies, DJI subsidiary Avinox and the emerging brand Gobao, showcased their Motor Gearbox Unit (MGU) technology. These MGUs combine the electric motor and gear transmission into one compact module, installed centrally on the bicycle. This design innovation removes the requirement for conventional manual gear shifters and multi-speed rear cassettes commonly found on assisted e-bikes.

By incorporating the transmission with the motor, these new systems enable seamless gear changes that occur automatically, without rider intervention. This not only streamlines the overall mechanical setup of the bicycle but also improves user experience by eliminating the need to manually switch gears while riding.

Electric bicycles utilizing MGUs could benefit from reduced weight and complexity, as well as improved reliability caused by fewer mechanical components exposed to wear from frequent gear changes. The integration also offers a cleaner design aesthetic and may simplify maintenance requirements.

Although technical specifics, pricing details, and release timelines were not disclosed, industry observers see the introduction of these integrated motor and transmission units as a significant step forward in e-bike technology. The adoption of automatic shifting systems could enhance the accessibility and appeal of electric bicycles, especially for casual riders and commuters who prefer a more intuitive riding experience.

The debut of these MGUs at a major European cycling trade show underlines a growing trend of innovation coming from Chinese companies in the competitive e-bike market. By combining motor and transmission in a unified solution, Avinox and Gobao are setting the stage for future designs where electronic and mechanical components collaborate more closely to deliver smoother performance.

As electric bicycles continue to expand their share of global urban transportation, advances such as these integrated motors are expected to influence new product development and potentially redefine rider expectations for convenience and ease of use.

Two Chinese companies introduced integrated e-bike motors that remove the need for manual gear shifting, showcased at Eurobike 2026.