by California-based belt drive manufacturer, Veer, has developed the Shift Drive system that allows riders to shift between two gears on ebikes. The system utilizes Veer’s Split Belt, which is different from traditional drive belts as it starts as one long strip that is riveted together to form a loop once installed on the bike. This allows for easy replacement of the belt when needed.
Unlike traditional belt drives that can only offer a single gear ratio, Shift Drive uses a rear cog with several separate sprocket-toothed elements arranged side-by-side to form a ring. Each element can independently swivel 180 degrees to place either a taller or shorter side beneath the belt, allowing for gear changes. A clutched-spring tensioner wheel automatically takes up the belt slack as needed.
Founder of Veer, Sean Hacking, explains that an electronic micro-servo initiates each gear-shift, but the actual swiveling of the segments is driven solely by the rotation of the hub. Gear shifts can be manually triggered through a handlebar-mounted remote or automatically triggered through a pedaling torque sensor. Shift Drive can also be used with any third-party geared hub with a standard 9-spline freehub body, effectively doubling the gear options.
The advantages of the Shift Drive system are that it offers a smooth and maintenance-free alternative to chain drives. It also provides the ability to shift between two gears without the need for a third-party hub or bottom bracket gearbox, reducing weight, complexity, and expense.
Veer is currently seeking investment through a Start Engine campaign. They plan to have the technology available on production ebikes by next summer. In addition to ebikes, Veer is also considering offering the Shift Drive system for other light electric vehicles. Prospective commercial partners can contact Veer through the Start Engine campaign or their website.
With the Shift Drive system, Veer aims to provide ebike riders with the convenience of shifting gears while enjoying the smooth and low-maintenance benefits of belt drives. This innovation in drivetrain technology can potentially improve the riding experience for ebike enthusiasts and expand the range of applications for belt drives in the electric vehicle industry.
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1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
