How does this Apollo innovation shape the rider experience?
MACH Technology is an Apollo innovation in controller design and capabilities, giving it total integration with the scooter’s electronics and with the Apollo Scooter App. The result of this engineering integration increases scooter speed, power range, rideability and safety.
Here is what the MACH controller does, how Power RBS changes braking, what the Apollo Scooter App adds, and why the controller matters when you are comparing models.
What the MACH controller does
The MACH controller outputs sinewave rather than PWM (pulse width modulation). This translates into less noise, lower wear on the motors, more efficient power use, less heat buildup in the motor. When combined with mapping of the motor characteristics of the scooter it is powering, the MACH controller allows powerful but predictable and subtle control over acceleration, and cruising.
Here’s the difference between different types of controllers:
|
Controller Type |
Low Power |
Medium Power |
High Power |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Sinewave |
Gentle sine curves with small amplitude; smooth transitions, quiet |
Larger amplitude sine waves; moderate torque, quiet |
Full amplitude sine waves; maximum torque and efficiency, quiet |
|
PWM |
Narrow pulses; low duty cycle; visible gaps between pulses, buzzing noise |
Wider pulses; ~50% duty cycle, buzzing noise |
Nearly continuous pulses; high duty cycle; strong output, quiet |
Sinewave Controller vs PWM Controller Output
Power RBS: Apollo's regenerative braking system
The MACH Technology controller offers an industry leading RBS (Regenerative Braking System). MACH Technology RBS is proportional allowing for smooth predictable braking, that is not only more consistent than friction based braking, but it also doesn’t change with wear, or contamination of disks, pads or drums.
The RBS is entirely electronic, it returns energy to the battery extending range with no pads or discs to wear down, and the best part is that you can fine tune it in the Apollo App. RBS braking on Apollo scooters is backed up by a friction braking system (hydraulic brakes / drum brakes depending on the model) for those that may wish to use both as well as being a safety measure in the highly unlikely event of an RBS fault.
Why the controller matters for everyday riding
The MACH Technology Controller enhances safety and longevity of the scooter. In addition to smooth speed and braking control, Mach controller also monitors the scooter's battery voltage and current. This information is crucial for maintaining the scooter's performance and preventing damage to the battery.
If the wattage or voltage exceeds safe limits, the controller can activate over power/voltage protection, which will limit the power output or shut down the motor to prevent potential hazards or in the case of over voltage limit power returned to the battery pack during activation of the RBS.
Temperature monitoring is another critical safety feature incorporated into Mach Technology controllers. As the scooter operates, the motor and other components generate heat.
If the temperature rises above a certain threshold, the controller will detect this increase, notify the rider through the App, and will reduce the power output or even power down the motor(s) temporarily to prevent overheating and potential damage to the scooter.
Mach Technology also supports an array of lighting on the scooter. Apollo scooters have some of the most comprehensive lighting in the industry. These enhance the visibility of the scooter, light up the path at night, and look great!
-
Bright handlebar mounted headlights
-
Handlebar and rear deck turn signals
-
Rear running and brake lights
-
Steering tube light
-
Deck lights (most recent models).
The Apollo App and connected features
Anti-theft features: NFC, app lock, and Find My
NFC (Near Field Communication), locking and unlocking also available with the Apollo App, and Apple Find My location tracking are features of Mach Technology Apollo Scooters.
One MACH controller, not three separate parts
A Single part design, that encompasses two motor controllers, and a lighting control unit, offering simplified wiring, lower easier maintenance, as well as better thermal control and heat dissipation. The Mach controller replaces up to three, or more separate components used on other scooter designs.
Customizing your ride in the Apollo App
The app is used to customize the scooter settings to a user’s preferences. Units of measure, turn signal time out, cruise control, maximum speed for each gear, acceleration strength, RBS braking force as well as other user preferences are set using the app.
Live ride data and ride history
During a ride, the app reports speed, wattage used or returned to the battery through the RBS, Motor Temp, Controller temp, battery percentage, trip odometer, scooter odometer, estimated remaining range, as well as gear, headlights, turn signal operation and other parameters.
While the scooter can absolutely be operated stand alone after initial setup. Using the App while riding, gives access to many additional features mentioned above. In addition, the app records ride information including routes, the state of all the sensors at all points during that ride.
Rides can be recalled later, replayed and shared with othersr as desired. All of the sensor data and customization options are made possible by the connection and design compatibility between the App and the Mach Controller. (The app also has navigation and other ride enhancements that do not necessarily depend upon Mach Technology.)
Over-the-air firmware updates
Updates and improvements can be sent over the air to users and downloaded to the scooter through the app. The app is updated with new features and enhancements frequently.
Why MACH matters when choosing an Apollo scooter
Mach technology is more than just a well-designed capable controller; it is designed from the ground up to be part of an integrated system within scooter model. The Mach controller is mapped to optimally control a specific motor(s) type, with a known set of peripherals including throttles (acceleration and regenerative), lighting system, Bluetooth connection to the Apollo Scooter Application and headset display. It is highly customizable to meet the preferences of the rider through the Apollo Scooter App (Android and IOS versions available. Performance, telemetry, and location are recorded in the app and can be accessed by riders, Apollo service providers well as shared with other riders if desired.
Key takeaways
Mach technology is possible because of the engineering and total control of a highly integrated scooter system designed by Apollo in Canada, extensively tested by a team of beta testers, both experienced and novices putting in thousands of miles, providing feedback that is built into every retail Apollo scooter. This results in a well-developed, efficient scooter that delivers an enjoyable, capable ride with optimized safety features, not a collection of third-party parts put together to make a scooter. Take one for a ride and feel the difference Mach Technology makes.
Mach Technology FAQs
What is MACH technology?
MACH technology is Apollo's integrated control system for its electric scooters. It combines a custom-designed controller, the software that maps it to each motor, onboard sensors, and the Apollo Scooter App. Together they shape how the scooter accelerates, brakes, and feels to ride.
What does the MACH controller do?
The MACH controller is the brain of the scooter. It manages the flow of electricity from the battery to the motor and turns throttle and brake inputs into motor commands. It also monitors battery voltage, current, and temperature, and it runs the scooter's lighting.
What is Power RBS?
Power RBS is Apollo's regenerative braking system. It turns the motor into a generator while you brake, slowing the scooter and returning energy to the battery. Braking is proportional, so it responds to how much you ask for, and you can tune it in the Apollo Scooter App. It works alongside the mechanical brakes, not instead of them.
Does MACH technology help extend range?
Efficient power management and regenerative braking both help the scooter make better use of the charge it has. Treat that as a benefit rather than a guaranteed distance. Real range depends on rider weight, terrain, speed, temperature, and riding style. Check the product page for a model's rated range.
What riding modes does MACH support?
MACH supports multiple riding modes so you can prioritize range, balanced daily riding, or the full power available. You select modes in the Apollo Scooter App and can set the maximum speed for each gear. Exact mode names and behavior vary by model, so check the product page for your scooter and ride within local speed limits.
Do I need the Apollo App to ride?
No. Once your scooter is set up, it rides without the app. The Apollo Scooter App adds customization, live ride data, ride history, anti-theft features, and over-the-air firmware updates.
Do all Apollo scooters use MACH technology?
MACH powers Apollo's current lineup, but specific features and controller generations vary by model. Check the product page for the scooter you are considering.