An Algorithm to Predict E-Bike Power Consumption Based on Planned Routes

Abstract

E-bikes, i.e., bikes equipped with a small electrical engine, are becoming increasingly widespread, thanks to their positive contribution to mobility and sustainability. A key component of an e-bike is the battery that feeds the drive unit: clearly, the higher the capacity of the battery, the longer the distances that the biker will cover under engine support. On the negative side, the additional weight incurred by the electric components is likely to ruin the riding experience in case the battery runs out of power. For this reason, an integrated hardware-software system that provides accurate information about the remaining range is essential, especially for older or “not-in-shape” bikers. Many e-bikes systems are already equipped with a small control unit that displays useful information, such as speed, instantaneous power consumption, and estimated range as well. Existing approaches rely on machine learning techniques applied to collected data, or even on the remaining battery capacity and the assistance level required by the drive unit. They do not consider crucial aspects of the planned route, in particular the difference in altitude, the combined weight of bike and biker, and road conditions. In this paper, we propose a mathematical model implemented in an application to compute battery consumption, and hence the presumed remaining range, in a more accurate way. Our application relies on external sources to compute the route and the elevation data of a number of intermediate points. We present the mathematical model on which our application is based, we show the implemented application in shape of an app, and we report the results of the experiments.