German brand also integrates AI into Flow app and updates Eco+ mode

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Published: Tuesday, 02 July 2024 at 20:25 PM


Bosch has announced updates to its eShift system in collaboration with TRP and Shimano.

Launching at Eurobike 2024, this is the first time eShift can be used with electronic derailleurs, with Bosch using TRP’s unreleased EASI A12 drivetrain, which has soft launched alongside the updates.

The German brand has also integrated AI into its navigation and route-planning app. A new Eco+ motor mode has been added as well.

eShift extended to derailleurs

eShift is now compatible with TRP and Shimano electronic derailleurs. – Bosch

Bosch first launched eShift in 2014. It was originally only compatible with select internal gear hubs, such as Shimano Nexus Di2.

It has now extended its partnership with TRP and Shimano, integrating the technology with their electronic derailleurs.

eShift works by timing the gearshift while reducing motor support for a fraction of a second, resulting in a smoother gear change.

Bosch says this not only makes for a more comfortable ride but also decreases wear on mechanical components because less power is transferred when the chain isn’t properly seated on the cassette.

The system can also change gears automatically. This works similarly to SRAM’s Eagle Powertrain AutoShift function, where gear changes are made to maintain a set cadence.

A new RollShift feature is also incorporated into the automatic mode. This measures your rolling speed while coasting, automatically changing gears to make your speed.

You can still change gear while in auto mode by using the triggers on the shifter. 

Shimano Nexus Di2 on Bosch bike
Shimano Nexus Di2 is commonly specced on urban and cargo bikes. – Bosch

In addition to TRP’s new electronic groupset, eShift is still compatible with Shimano’s mechanical Cues Di2 derailleurs and Nexus Di2 internal gear hubs.

TRP teases EASI A12 drivetrain

TRP EASI A12 on Bosch bike at Eurobike 2024
TRP enters the electronic drivetrain market with its EASI A12 derailleur. – Nick Clark / Our Media

This EASI A12 is the first electronic drivetrain we’ve seen from TRP.

TRP is tight-lipped on details, but we expect to learn more as Eurobike progresses.

So far we can see the derailleur takes power from a wire connected to an ebike’s battery. The shifter on the bars is completely wireless.

As the name suggests, the drivetrain is 12-speed.

The derailleur exclusively works with the Performance Line CX and SX motors.

AI integrated Flow 

Bosch Kiosk with Range Control
New features should reduce range anxiety. – Nick Clark / Our Media

AI is now integrated into Bosch’s Smart System. Bosch says this enables more intelligent navigation and route planning.

The new Range Control feature calculates predicted battery life when you arrive at your destination, reducing range anxiety.

Rider weight, the elevation profile of the journey and riding behaviour are all tracked to provide as accurate an estimate as possible.

Bosch says the system becomes more accurate over time as it observes rider behaviour.

The system can automatically reduce motor support based on a planned route to maximise range.

The new system can also estimate arrival time.

New Eco+ mode

Bosch Eco
Eco is very close to riding a non-assisted bike, according to Bosch. – Bosch

Bosch has updated its Eco+ mode with more energy-saving features.

The motor is now switched off when descending hills or coasting on the flat to conserve battery life.

The mode will provide gentle support when getting up to speed or when overtaking, but Bosch says the mode is more akin to riding a non-assisted bike, with more work required by the rider once up to speed.