Pedal power, redefined
The FreeDrive converts your muscle power into electric energy - completely without a mechanical chain. The innovative pedal generator integrated into the bottom bracket produces electricity as you pedal. This energy is transferred directly to the hub motor or stored in the battery for later use.
By separating power generation and propulsion, the system enables a cleaner bike design, lower maintenance and more efficiency for both cargo bikes and traditional bicycles.
Automatic mode
No chain means new bike architectures
Without a mechanical connection, FreeDrive unlocks new bike architectures and cleaner designs, from versatile cargo bikes to urban e-bikes that were previously unimaginable.
Automatic mode adds extra comfort by adapting the riding experience automatically, without the need for manual gear shifting and enabling a smoother ride.
Intelligent battery management
Energy where you need it most
The FreeDrive uses your pedaling to generate energy naturally, with a smooth and pleasant pedal feel. Excess energy is smartly stored and can be unleashed on demand, for example, when climbing hills. This means the system supports you exactly when you need it.
The result: a highly flexible drive train that adapts perfectly to your riding style.
Less maintenance
Less maintenance – more ride
No chains. Fewer parts. Less maintenance. Designed for up to 60,000km maintenance free experience. Thanks to its robust components, you can focus entirely on the ride experience. Especially attractive for fleet operators: longer deployment times and reduced downtime ensure economic efficiency and reliability.
FreeDrive Generator
The FreeDrive combines the pedal generator, motor, and drivetrain components in one advanced system, creating a new level of efficient, low-maintenance mobility.
With a compact generator weight of just 3.5 kg, the system enables a lightweight integration for modern bike architectures.
FreeDrive – the key to the mobility revolution
Ready for the future of micromobility
Engineered and manufactured in Bühl, Germany. Built with a robust European supply chain for planning security and reliability. Schaeffler is advancing from component supplier to Tier-1 partner, delivering complete, customized systems for vehicle manufacturers. FreeDrive sets new standards in comfort, efficiency, and flexibility for sustainable mobility.
Ride today what will become the bike of tomorrow.
Contact
Claus-Dieter Schilling
Sales Drivetrain Actuators
Mario Vondracek
Product Management BU Actuator Systems