Panasonic, best known for its consumer electronics like televisions and home appliances, is expanding into the electric bicycle market with a new version of its GXM central motor. This motor is designed to provide more power for climbing hills or navigating rough terrain. The magnesium version of the motor now delivers a maximum torque of 120 Nm, an increase from 105 Nm, while the aluminum version reaches 110 Nm, up from 100 Nm. A smaller version of the GXM motor, which provides 75 Nm of torque, remains unchanged. The peak power output of the motor stays at 600 watts, with a nominal power of 250 watts. These updates are achieved through software improvements rather than hardware changes, and they can be applied to existing motors through a mobile app by November 2026 at no cost to users. The motor’s weight remains the same at 2.6 kilograms for the magnesium version and 2.8 kilograms for the aluminum one. This increase in torque is part of a broader trend in the electric bicycle industry, where companies are enhancing the performance of their motors. Competitors like Avinox, Bosch, and Bafang have also released models with higher torque and power, with some reaching up to 150 Nm of torque and over 1400 watts of power. However, in Europe, there are legal restrictions on electric bicycles. They are limited to a nominal power of 250 watts and must stop assisting riders once they reach 25 kilometers per hour. These higher torque values are primarily intended for e-MTBs (electric mountain bikes), where strong power at low speeds is crucial for climbing steep hills. Despite these regulations, manufacturers like Panasonic are working with partners such as Flyer and Raymon to develop new lines of electric bicycles. These include fully suspended electric mountain bikes and more versatile models that could appeal to a wider range of riders, from those who enjoy off-road adventures to those who need reliable transportation in urban or rural settings.