Many of us may be baffled by the fact that in actuality electric motorcycles were patented as long back as in 1860, and they entered the commercial scheme of things by 1911. But the electric component in itself presented two inherent predicaments that are considered as ‘traditional’ attributes in good motorcycles – one concerning the overall speed and secondly that robust sound of a engine revving. Coming back in the present scenario, green automotive technology has certainly advanced beyond these characteristic limitations to bring us concepts that are designed and bred for raw, exhilarating speed. And its high time we check out some of them.
1. All-electric Killer Joule to go at 400mph:
The designer here is one Eva Håkansson, and in simple words she wants to break the speed record at Bonneville by designing a electric motorbike (read monster) that will be able to hit a breathtaking 400mph (640kmph)! Christened aptly as the Killer Joule, this contraption will be juiced up by a whopping 1300 cells (similar to power drills, though their standardized version contains only 10). And what’s more; some of the commercial ‘big guys’ like Greenstage-Tumanako and A123 have already taken fascination to her ambitious concept.
2. AER concept racing motorcycle:
Conceived by Andre Federico Look, this classy yet futuristic looking motorbike is all set to incorporate not one or two but four electric engines, which can generate up to 143.5KW of boisterous power. Other features will include the integration of regenerative braking, efficacious battery packs and a streamlined form with tire temperature regulation for better steering. And to add to those attributes, the low emission bike will have an advanced mechanism that can harvest clean oxygen from the surrounding air for further generation of energy.
3. Zero Moto electric concept motorcycle:
Conceptualized by Wes Rhoad, this CPU controlled motorcycle may seem like a giant, glossy dumbbell on the run. Inspired by Art Deco Steam Locomotives styling, the steering mechanism is what really stands out other than the unique visuals. This system will allow the two wheels to rotate at different directions (if one is clockwise, the other will be anti-clockwise) for improved controlling over small turning radius. Coming to specs, the contraption will have a top speed of 90 mph (144 kmph), with acceleration of 0-60 in 3.9 seconds and a good range of 200 miles (320 km).
4. Motorcycle enthusiast manages to go 190 mph in his electric machine:
The man we are talking about is Chip Yates, and he fervently believes that low emission electric motorbikes can challenge their gas guzzling heavyweight cousins. And beyond believing, he has actually proven this by going at an invigorating 190.6 mph (304 kmph) in his 585-pound monster. Now, after increasing the specs to 240 hp and 365 pound feet of torque, he will actually try to move to 200 mph!
5. Solomoto’s Motoczysz E1pc:
Looking like a ribbed monster out of hell’s depths, this robustly ‘sleek’ contraption aims to push it on the sustainable front too. Weighing at 238 kg, the bike can romp up to a blistering speed of 162.5 mph (260 kmph). Coming with 125 hp and powered by 5 sturdy lithium-ion batteries, this certainly is the ‘green’ way to go in our book.
6. Honda Oree Electric Motorcycle Concept:
Sustainability and Honda go hand in hand, and this time they are back with Oree Electric Motorcycle Concept designed by German students Nike Albertus and Andre Look. The minimalist style embedded with radial battery packs allows the bike mechanism to forgo gears and clutches. The drive-train will include a 90 hp motor that can push the bike to a top speed of 120 mph (192 kmph), while the convenient range can be extended to 190 miles (304 km).
7. Tryton MM2 electric motorcycle concept:
If Harley got a futuristic revamp, the styling would somewhat look like this concept. Thought of by Vil Tsimenzin, the visual heaviness of the bike will in actuality be supplemented by a light carbon fiber frame with reinforced thermoplastic body panels. Coming to specs, the dynamite machine can go up to a speed of 160mph (256 kmph), with an acceleration of 0-100 in just under 4.4 seconds. The range is also adequate at 132 miles (211 km), while the charging can be done in two and a half hours via a conventional 110V outlet.
8. AMPLIO Electric Motorcycle Concept::
Conceived by designer Sebastian Tymoczko, the AMPLIO concept will feature a unique system which would allow nigh instantaneous replacement of the battery packs by an fully automated system. This will include a replaceable rack that will incorporate a 10 kWh capacity lithium-ion battery. To be designed for urban commuting, this ‘swapping’ system will further accentuate upon the healthy 100 mile range of the low emission motorcycle.
9. BMW E 100R electric motorcycle concept:
The concoction of the bare essence of a dirt bike with a demeanor of a sports bike, this design by Miika Mahonen looks forth to produce torque at even zero RPM. Moreover, with the simplicity of technology and expected low price tag, this machine can be the electric ‘Saviour’ for the masses. So, anyone with a wish to have sprightly spurt across the tight corners, this adamantly green bike is certainly for you.
10. Shavit electric superbike concept:
Engineering student Eyal Melnick has managed to fuse two polar opposite elements of adaptability and speed into his user friendly electric sportsbike concept. The adaptable nature will come with the flexible seating position, which can be altered according to the driver’s comfort. Coming to the specs, the 170kg bike will incorporate a 180 hp motor, while the wheel base of 1380mm will contribute to greater control and speed capability.
