NEW M40 FEATURES ANNOUNCED

April 8, 2026

SMART POWER, BETTER CONTROL

MAHLE SmartBike Systems expands the capabilities of its M40 eMTB system with a new generation of intelligent riding features designed to enhance control, efficiency, and rider confidence on technical terrain.

The latest update introduces Smart Assist and Traction Control, two new functions that further refine the riding experience, alongside existing technologies such as Dynamic Overrun and Auto Hold. Together, these features reinforce MAHLE’s philosophy of delivering a natural ride feel through intelligent automation, without adding complexity for the rider.

SMART ASSIST

Support That Adapts to Your Ride

Smart Assist introduces a dynamic automatic mode that continuously adapts assistance based on rider input and terrain conditions. Instead of switching between support levels, the system automatically adjusts power delivery to maintain a smooth and natural ride.

The system analyzes multiple parameters in real time, including rider power, cadence, speed, and terrain gradient. Based on this data, Smart Assist delivers the appropriate level of support, whether riding on flat terrain, technical climbs, or changing trail conditions.

This dynamic approach eliminates the need for frequent mode changes, allowing riders to focus entirely on the trail. The result is a more intuitive and fluid riding experience, particularly in MTB environments where terrain changes rapidly.

Smart Assist is also highly configurable. OEMs can fine-tune parameters to match each bike’s intended use, while riders can personalize the experience via the app or HU+ by adjusting:

• Assistance ratio
• Maximum power
• Acceleration behavior

This flexibility allows Smart Assist to accommodate a wide range of rider profiles, from sporty, performance-focused riders to those seeking maximum comfort and support.

Beyond improving ride quality, Smart Assist also optimizes energy efficiency, helping extend battery range by delivering power only when needed.

TRACTION CONTROL

Climb with confidence

Traction Control enhances rider confidence by preventing rear-wheel slip on loose, wet, or uneven terrain. The system continuously monitors traction and adjusts motor torque in real time to maintain control and forward momentum.

The M40 system uses a high-resolution rear-wheel speed sensor capable of measuring wheel position 84 times per rotation. Combined with torque, cadence, and motor data, the system can detect traction loss with high precision.

When slip is detected, the system automatically regulates torque output to prevent power spikes that could cause wheel spin. This ensures smoother power delivery and improved stability on technical climbs and challenging surfaces.

Traction Control operates seamlessly in the background and activates only when needed, preserving a natural ride feel while enhancing control in demanding conditions.

The feature integrates fully with Smart Assist and other M40 technologies, creating a cohesive riding experience where power delivery adapts continuously to both rider input and terrain.

Features available since launch, enhanced.

Dynamic Overrun

Extra Momentum When It Matters

Dynamic Overrun provides controlled assistance after the rider stops pedaling, helping overcome technical obstacles such as rocks, steps, or roots.

Unlike conventional overrun systems, Dynamic Overrun adapts to rider input and terrain conditions. The feature is triggered naturally through pedaling behavior:

• The force of the final pedal stroke determines assistance strength
• Two meters of overrun max available and configurable via App
• Smooth pedaling stops can prevent activation when not needed

This dynamic behavior allows riders to intentionally control the function without pressing buttons or activating additional modes.

Dynamic Overrun is particularly beneficial on technical climbs, where maintaining momentum is critical. By delivering a short, controlled burst of assistance, the system helps riders clear obstacles more confidently and efficiently.

The feature can also be configured via the app or HU+, allowing riders to adjust maximum intensity or deactivate the function entirely.

Auto Hold (Automatic Hill Brake)

Confident Starts on Steep Terrain

Auto Hold improves control during stops on steep climbs by automatically preventing the bike from rolling backward. When the system detects a stationary bike on an incline, it engages the motor brake automatically.

When the rider begins pedaling again, the system provides a start-assist impulse, allowing a smooth and controlled restart, even on steep terrain.

Auto Hold uses sensor fusion from:

• Accelerometer (HU+)
• Speed sensor
• Torque sensor

Together, these inputs allow the system to detect slope, rider intention, and bike movement in real time.

Like all M40 features, Auto Hold operates automatically without requiring rider interaction, maintaining MAHLE’s focus on intuitive riding experiences.

MAHLE M40 | Power, Precision, and Intelligent Control

The M40 system combines intelligent features with high-performance hardware designed for demanding eMTB applications.

Key specifications include:

• Motor weight: 2.5 kg
• System weight: 5 kg (with iM5 battery, 534 Wh)
• System weight: 6.2 kg (with iM8 battery, 800 Wh)
• Maximum torque: 105 Nm
• Peak power: 850 W (at 80–100 rpm cadence)
• Assistance ratio: Up to 600% (OEM configurable)

The system is designed to be fully customizable for OEM partners, allowing brands to tailor performance characteristics to their bike’s intended use and riding style.

With Smart Assist, Traction Control, Dynamic Overrun, and Auto Hold working together, the M40 delivers a riding experience focused on control, efficiency, and natural performance, helping riders climb higher, ride farther, and tackle more technical terrain with confidence.