E-bike connectivity made simple: Introducing Guardian
There’s no doubt that the future of micromobility is electric, by now it’s apparent that it’s also connected. For many riders, connectivity features are considered an essential part of the e-bike and e-scooter experience. Comodule has connected more than 500,000 light electric vehicles with IoT, and we have seen an increasing demand for a simple connectivity solution that delivers the main anti-theft features.
We listened and delivered. Our newest solution is called Guardian, an entry-level IoT system for e-bike manufacturers. Guardian is the result of 8 years of experience developing IoT solutions, packaged into a compact casing. Guardian focuses on vehicle tracking and effortless integration without sacrificing quality.
Safety first
Guardian focuses on keeping e-bikes safe. It enables several anti-theft features such as vehicle tracking and push notifications that are triggered in case of an unauthorized vehicle movement. In case of theft, the precise GPS positioning makes it possible to locate a missing bike on a map and recover it. As the module is always connected to cellular networks (4G Cat-M1 with 2G fallback), the location of the vehicle can be tracked with low latency. Comodule’s IoT has global coverage and proven 99.8% uptime.
The module has a backup battery for autonomous functionality. If the e-bike battery runs out or is removed, you’ll still be able to position the bike. In addition, key module parameters such as the battery's state of charge and route data can be monitored.
“Recent research conducted by Comodule indicates that 60% of e-bike riders would feel safer if their bike had GPS tracking or movement alert functionalities. IoT is a major key in increasing the feeling of safety, we believe that Guardian will make IoT more approachable for more e-bike manufacturers. It’s just that simple and effective”, says Teet Praks, CEO of Comodule.
A software layer for a convenient experience
Guardian comes with the complete Comodule IoT ecosystem. In addition to the IoT hardware, it is integrated with Comodule software tools - a Companion App for riders (the design of the app is customized according to the e-bike brand) and a web-based manufacturer platform. There are also developer tools (API and Bluetooth® SDK) available for customers who want to build their own software applications.
As the name indicates, Comodule Companion App is a digital companion for riders, displaying the location of the bike, route data, and movement alerts. The app also acts as a communication and servicing platform between the manufacturer and rider. The riders can use the app to inform the bike brand about any problems with the vehicle, making troubleshooting a lot more effective.
Manufacturers and bike brands can engage with customers and build communities by sending messages via the Manufacturer Platform. New product launches, brand events, maintenance notifications - the message gets delivered straight to the riders’ app.
Made to fit all e-bike systems
One option is to hide Guardian under a motor cover
Guardian is our smallest IoT device to date. The compact size packs mighty IoT capabilities but it’s easier to integrate. It includes all the necessary components to set up a fully working and reliable IoT system for e-bikes, all it needs is power from the bike.
The IoT module can be hidden under the drive cover or secured to the bike frame under a customized enclosure, preventing malicious removal. Our engineering team works together with each vehicle company to find the best location for the module. Guardian is compatible with all well-known e-bike systems. The IoT enables sending over-the-air updates to the module’s firmware to add new features and keep it up to date.
The modules are designed and manufactured in our own factory in Tallinn, Estonia. To make the hardware robust and long-lasting, high-quality materials are used for manufacturing.
Accepting sample requests
“IoT solutions can be difficult to understand and implement. We’ve taken our experience and made connectivity simple. Guardian is an entry-level IoT solution that provides the main functionalities of connectivity while keeping the same level of quality we provide for all our solutions. We want to make digital anti-theft features more accessible for e-bike manufacturers, this is how we get more people on e-bikes“ says Teet Praks, CEO of Comodule.
First samples of Guardian are available for pre-order, mass production is estimated to start In the first quarter of 2023. Bike manufacturers who are looking to connect their e-bikes with Guardian IoT solution can reach out to our sales team at sales@comodule.com
