Electric motorbikes are here and it certainly seems like they’re here to stay, as the industry starts to take them ever more seriously. As the pressure builds for the UK Government to bring forward its ban on sales of new petrol and diesel cars and vans to 2032, as opposed to 2040, it’s clear that this will have a direct impact on the motorbike market as well.
Electric cars have pretty much been brought forward to the mainstream already, thanks to the likes of Tesla, and more and more charge points are popping up at service stations everywhere. Now there are other serious manufacturers looking to launch themselves into the electric motorbike market as well. This year has seen some serious progress for electric motorbikes, and with this in mind, we wanted to highlight 5 of the best examples to watch out for in 2019.
Vespa Elettrica
Since 1946, Vespa has grown into one of the most recognisable scooter manufacturers in the world. Just hearing the name now will probably instantly make you conjure up images of classic scooters, propelled by two-stroke engines. It was during the Milan Show, 3 years ago in 2016 that Vespa announced plans for their own electric scooter. The Vespa Elettrica has been designed to function efficiently in the city, with a guaranteed charge range of 62 miles.
Harley-Davidson Livewire
Following years of talks and concepts, Harley-Davidson have pushed forward on their plans for the Livewire electric motorcycle. In fact, the motorcycle manufacturer has already started taking orders for the model. The electric motorbike looks to be crammed with extra gadgets, and comes with a TFT dash with Bluetooth connectivity, along with Showa shocks. It will even allow for fast charging through the tank.
Zero SR/F
The SR/F streetfighter was unveiled earlier this year in February, with Zero claiming that the electric motorbike delivers a very appealing blend of “industry-leading power, control and connection.” It manages to marry its electric powertrain with sharp and modern looking aesthetics. The e-bike offers impressive range capabilities and quick recharge times, along with 140lbft of torque and 110bhp.
Super Soco TC-Max
Revealed to the UK at Motorcycle Live 2018, the Super Soco TC-Max offers up something a little different to its contemporary electric competitors. The machine offers up a top speed that reaches over 60mp, with around 133ft-lb of torque. It was actually designed as an economical option that rivals the performance capabilities of a petrol four-stroke 125. Its removable lithium-ion battery can be fully charged in four and a half hours, with a max range of about 80 miles.
Arc Vector
Arc, which is backed by Jaguar Land Rover, unveiled their Vector project at Eicma last year. The e-bike boasts a range of high-tech features including a helmet with heads-up display, which can also be used to unlock the bike. It even comes with a ‘smart’ jacket that can warn the rider of approaching dangers through vibrations. Although we should mention this electric motorbike is valued at around £90,000 so might be one to save for!
