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Automatic transmission in e-bikes with hub motors: How AutoShift improves your range

Constantly shifting gears, searching for the right ratio, struggling uphill in the wrong gear – we've all been there. This is precisely where a new technology comes in: automatic transmissions integrated directly into the hub motor .

By Fabian Huber 2 minutes read time

Automatikschaltung im E-Bike mit Nabenmotor: Wie AutoShift deine Reichweite verbessert

About the author Fabian Huber

Fabian founded MYVELO together with Vincent. The two share a long-standing passion for cycling. Together they have cycled thousands of kilometers and fought for victories in the German racing bike league. The idea of founding MYVELO arose from their many years of experience and knowledge of what makes a good bike. Find out more about MYVELO now

Published: April 30, 2026

Systems like the Bafang motor in the Monza e-folding bike with GVT AutoShift

👉 Just ride - the e-bike takes care of the rest.

But how does that work technically? And does it really increase the range?

What is an automatic transmission in a hub motor?

Bafang rear motor

On classic e-bikes, the gear shifting mechanism is located outside the motor:

derailleur gears or hub gears
manually or electrically controlled

The new solution integrates everything directly into the engine: 👉 Engine + transmission + shifting system in one unit

That means:

no derailleur
no gearshift lever
minimal maintenance

Bafang GVT AutoShift explained in detail

Bafang Autoshift

The centerpiece is the so-called GVT technology (Gear Variable Transmission) – an automatic 2-speed transmission.

Translations overview

The engine operates with two fixed gears:

First round: 1 : 1
2nd gear: 1 : 1.36

What does that mean?

1st gear (1:1)

direct power transmission
maximum support
Ideal for starting and inclines

2nd gear (1:1.36)

"Overdrive"
higher speed at lower engine speed
efficient on flat routes

How does automatic switching work?

The system continuously analyzes:

speed
Cadence
torque

Typical process

Starting off → 1st gear
Acceleration → System detects increasing speed
Automatic gear shift
Efficient cruising in 2nd gear

👉 The whole thing happens fully automatically and almost imperceptibly .

Impact on battery range 🔋

Why does AutoShift save energy?

Electric motors operate most efficiently within a specific speed range .

Without changing gears:

The engine often runs inefficiently.
higher electricity consumption

With AutoShift: 👉 The engine stays closer to its optimal efficiency

The "efficiency mode": 1 : 1.36

The second gear acts like an energy-saving mode :

lower engine speed at the same vehicle speed
less electricity consumption
reduced heat generation

👉 Result: More range per battery charge

Practical example

Driving situation	Without automatic transmission	With AutoShift
25 km/h	high engine speed	optimized speed
Energy consumption	higher	less
reach	less	higher

For whom is automatic transmission particularly worthwhile?

Perfect for:

Commuters 🚴
City e-bike rider
comfort-oriented drivers
Beginners

Less ideal for:

sporty drivers
steep mountain tours
Performance-oriented driving

Maintenance & everyday usability

A major advantage for many users:

👉 Significantly fewer wear parts

No:

shifter
front derailleur
complex pinion system

That means:

less maintenance
lower costs
clean, minimalist setup

Disadvantages of AutoShift technology

Despite all the advantages, there are limits:

❌ only 2 gears
❌ no manual control
❌ less flexible in the terrain

Conclusion: Comfort meets efficiency

The automatic transmission in the hub motor - as in the Monza e-folding bike - is a real game changer in the urban sector.

👉 Particularly convincing:

simple operation
lower maintenance requirements
Improved battery range through more efficient motor control

For many everyday drivers, this means: 👉 Less tech stress, more driving fun – and often a few extra kilometers of range.

E-Bike without gears - pure comfort or a hidden disadvantage?

Flex in a carbon frame – how the material affects the riding experience

Pendler-Typ Quiz

One-way distance: 5 km Electric assistance desired?

Yes No

Route gradient:

Flat Slightly hilly Steep

Intermodal with public transport – How often do you commute?

Never Rarely Often Always

🎁 You've found your commuter type! Get €50 off now with the code:

14D4ILYC0MUTR

Apply discount automatically

*Valid from a minimum order value of €1,000

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