Well now, this was a surprise: instead of scarcity, this week following EICMA 2019 has presented an embarrassment of parameter-pushing electric motorcycles, scooters and elec-tech to choose from. The Stingray is stellar in steel while the creators of the Carbogatto and BST have molded carbon into radical new shapes. India’s Ultraviolette speeds toward the future, and an e-scooter by Xiaomi continues to redefine portability. Tesla, MotoSola and the city of Los Angeles boost electric accessibility, and nods to the classy past are represented by Savic, Carota and Tremel.
Jay Donovan’s Baresteel Designs Is A Masterpiece In Metal
Jay Donovan’s ‘Stingray’ is an extraordinary design study in the visual liquidity of metal. What’s underneath? An electric heart. [Haas Moto Museum / BikeExif]A few years ago it was a Yamaha XS650 that alerted custom co-conspirators to take note. Among them was founder of the Haas Moto Museum in Texas, Bobby Haas, who commissioned the young British Columbian to build an electric motorcycle. The result seems a perfect embodiment of the museum’s guiding principle, as expressed by Mr. Hass: “Motorcycling is not simply a means of transportation, a way to ride along the street or the highway…it is a cultural phenomenon.”There’s a hint of the Moto Major in the cephalopodic fluidity of the Stingray’s bodywork. See what we mean here: amirite? [Haas Moto Museum]The Stingray is a liquid metal motorcycle built around a compact 44lb permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) from Wisconsin-based Motenergy. Each perfect part was molded to great effect, almost perfectly concealing the carefully dispersed battery packs. The black and silver design appears to flow from one to the other, as perfectly balanced as the form and function of this creation.
The Carbogatto H7 Is Carbon Molded Magic
The plywood buck used to explore the Carbogatto’s lines…and yes, we’re happy they made it in another material. [Carbogatto]The L1e classified Carbogatto H7 carved carbon frame is lithe and light but not as quick as its feline inspiration. 86 pounds with battery, this carbon kitty accelerates from zero to 28 in 6.2 seconds and has an anticipated range of between 44 and 62.5 miles-per-charge, depending on the bike’s configuration and other factors such as speed, weather conditions and rider ability. Top speeds aren’t yet posted. However, like its namesake, it needs to rest – 5 hours to fully recharge.
Enjoy this amazing conceptual construction video!
The “Carbon Cat” was originally the idea of Russian transportation visionary, Igor Stepanov, who felt there was definitely a place for more unique designs within the electric transportation sphere. Stepanov’s sketch transitioned from a plywood prototype to a carbon copy that is now ready to ride. Watch robots assemble the bike.
BST Busts Boundaries With Its Naked Carbon Design
With peerless design DNA, how could the BST be anything but extraordinary? Another milestone for Pierre Terblanche. [BST]This HyperTEK electric motorcycle is wheely nice, and I mean that. First of all, Blackstone Tek are well-known carbon wheel specialists and secondly, what they built, well, it wheelies, which is unusual for an electric bike. On the inside was BST founder and successful SuperMoto racer Gary Turner who called on design expert and fellow South African Pierre Terblanche to bring this project to life. Terblanche, best known for his work with Ducati on the Supermono, the 749 and 999, the SportClassic, and the Hypermotard, emphatically claimed that the HyperTEK is the best work he has ever done.At last, electric motorcycles are starting to find a unique aesthetic, or many unique aesthetics, that would be impossible for internal-combustion motorcycles. Bravo! [BST]That BST kept a clutch is remarkable, but much of what makes the HyperTEK unique is what’s missing. For example, instead of a dash, the rider/racer of this machine needs to wear a head-up display X1 helmet made by Crosshelmet. Thanks to all the carbon, it’s also lighter than most, 450 pounds all in. There’s also less time to be wasted getting it ready for a ride thanks to a 30-minute quick charge facility for a possible range of around 300 kilometers (187.5 miles)! However, anyone who wants one of these when they hit production in mid 2021, will need some hefty coin – around $80,000 USD, to be specific. By then there is likely to be more competition for your cash. (photo of F77)
Introducing the Ultraviolette F77
On the other hand, a badass universal motorcycle design also has merit. We love the incarnadine paint scheme of the Ultraviolette. [Ultraviolette]Another outstanding example of performance-level electric vehicle on two is this performance machine out of Bangalore, India. Though their release video evokes aeronautic abilities, the F77 is not (yet?) the fastest of its segment, topping out at 147 km (92 miles) per hour with a 33.5hp motor that shifts from a standstill to 60 kph (37.5mph) in 2.9 seconds. What sets it apart is the modular battery technology and charging setup. There are three, 8.5 kg (18.5 pound), 4.2kWh lithium-ion battery packs that are rechargeable from either of the two charging ports: in-built standard and fast charging – up to100 percent in under 90 minutes! In colours such as “Lightning, Shadow and Laser,” and with a comprehensive list of smart features and “intelligent interfacing” this bike looks the part while definitely representing the future of EV power management, interactivity and thrill. Their dynamic front page is worth a watch. https://www.ultraviolette.com/f77.html Savic Creates Your Alpha and Your Omega – And A Delta Too Maybe a bit campy, but definitely clever, Savic three different bikes that look as one. Priced at $12,990, $16,990 and $23,990 respectively, the Omega, Delta and Alpha versions of the C-series style offer very different power, torque, battery pack and charging capabilities on the exact same frame. It’s a bold move for the Aussie manufacturer considering how much most riders count on visual cues to communicate information about the beast they are taming, Or perhaps matching a chassis with vastly different power plants is an excellent step toward changing the electric motorcycle conversation. Any thoughts out there?
Carota Classic Cruiser Concept Is Electric, Pun Intended
The Carota nods to motorcycle heritage with cheeky shapes. [Carota]This creative team from Vietnam seems to know no bounds, and this latest prototype follows the trend. The electric V-twin drivetrain is artfully perched below the seat, adding potential but not pounds to the minimalist frame, and the rechargeable battery pack is concealed up front where an antique board-tracker would stash its fuel. Some have compared it to a Harley-Davidson in shape and color scheme, which is fair, but it also evokes Californian beach bikes.
This eBike’s Alright
The Tremel Zimmner electric moped, with proportions evoking lightweight vintage motorcycles. [Tremel]Technically, a moped, the Tremel Zimmner looks back at vintage bicycles for aesthetic inspiration. Easily mistaken for a traditional bicycle, but with pegs in place of the pedals Tremel has chosen to keep things simple – which is understandable for a new player with such a fresh face. 23-year-old Leon Tremel has spent 1.5 years designing this stainless steel, light-for-a-moped (?)105- pound two-wheeler, and in early 2020 will start a crowdfunding campaign.A big LED headlamp says ‘motorcycle’, as does the high-mounted battery pack in place of a fuel tank. [Tremel]No indication of what it might cost in the end, but we’ll keep an eye on its progress. For now, what stands out is the advances in battery technology. The single battery pack could reach 75 km but there would be the possibility of installing 3 extra packs to extend the range. Fast charging would be 1 hour, full in the 3-4 range.
The Xiaomi HIMO H1 Transformer – Pick Your Spirit Warrior
The Himo H1, newest in a series of customizable EVs taking advantage of high-tech and low production possibilities. [Himo]Who will you be when you do battle with urban, office or airport traffic on this newest version of the mini-wheel e-scooter? Optimus Prime, Megatron or Bumblebee? Transformer twin aside, these mine-scooters are hardly intimidating. In fact, what’s great about them is how cute they are. Not even 30 lbs, they fold up into a 13 x 18 x 9-inch cube with a maximum load of 199 lbs, which makes them better suited for the more petite people of the planet.
Much like the manual Razr scooter, the HIMO H1 seems like the perfect upgrade from walking. The 180w HIMO H1 won’t ever push past 12mp, travels between 11 – 12.5 miles on a single battery charge, and recharges to full in three to four hours on a regular outlet-just enough time to get some work done or find your fabulous outfit for your next fashionable encounter.
“Zapp’s A Great Scooter!”
The new Zapp i300 eco-scooter. [Zapp]It’s electric, it’s a scooter and it’s for the city. The ecologically-minded Zapp i300 also delivers, as you may have guessed, the equivalent to 300cc’s of power, and apparently has the “best acceleration, handling and stopping power,” according to their website. It’s also cute, quick and light on its wheels. The i300 has an exoskeleton made from aerospace-grade aluminum, with an interior permanent magnet motor that efficiently produces ultra-high power with the help of two super-slim, 11-pound portable battery packs with a combined distance of 37.5 – 56 miles.A zippy design in aluminum, the Zapp i300 is stylishly fast, and ready for the streets of your city [Zapp]Britain’s Zapp i300 looks like fun, the simple, user-friendly kind of fun designed with a whole range of riders and their many needs, top of mind. The bikes are available directly from the manufacturer’s website for €6,300 (US $6,940), where they can be personalized to fit all types of preferences. Of the five colours, Piano Black, Battleship Grey, and Powder Blue are available for a small (approx.. $300USD) premium. There’s also a Union Jack pattern for around $700. No word on tariffs or delivery but anyone who becomes an owner qualifies to have it serviced by a member of the mobile Zapper squad. Who could ask for anything more?
Gita (Jee-ta) Gets A Good Cause
The Piaggio Gita RED, supporting AIDS research via sales of this personal robot. [Piaggio]You already know this fully rechargeable electric robot sherpa from 2017, but as of November 18th, 2019, for only a limited time, $50 from each specifically branded Piaggio (gita)RED sold will be donated to RED – a charity that supports AIDS research and treatment. This coproduction between the lightweight mobility tech company Piaggio Fast Forward and the Global non-profit organization, RED is in honour of the 5th annual (RED) Shopathon to raise funds that support a diverse range of life-saving HIV/AIDS programs. More information is available here.
Let The Motosola Move You
The scooter with a sun canopy, updated. The MotoSola catches sun power as it goes, and keeps the rider in the shade, a double bonus. [MotoSola]It’s so obvious it almost hurts: Motosola has re-purposed the very functional rain and sun canopy that is already on so many electric vehicles into a portable power source. Right there on top of the already-existent cover, Motosola has applied a thin coat of high-efficiency solar cells that convert the sun into either 100 W or 150 W of power, depending on the model. This amount of energy can either power a dead battery or fully charged within hours of being parked in the sun. On top of it all, the awnings cost less than a replacement lithium battery and can be integrated into a manufacturers design.The MotoSola concept in a nutshell: turn your awning into a light catching solar cell. [MotoSola]“We want to provide an exciting inventive low-cost and friendly solution to promote the EV industry and fight global warming in the places that need it most,’ says MotoSola. “In terms of carbon emissions commuting with Motosola is equivalent to sailing and produces less CO2 than jogging!”
Larger And In Charger
Harlan Flagg (2nd from left) was part of the opening reception discussion at the Electric Revolution exhibit at the Petersen Museum this year. The panel, L-R: LA Times journalist Charles Fleming, Harlan Flagg of Hollywood Electrics, the world’s oldest ebike dealer, exhibit curator Paul d’Orleans, Dan Green Rep of CAKE, and Ben McGinly of the Harley-Davidson Livewire team. [Abhi Eswarappa]Coming soon to The Vintagent is an interview with Harlan Flagg celebrating the 10th year anniversary of Hollywood Electrics, the first dedicated electric motorcycle retailer in the world. Ahead of that reveal is a sneak peak into what was discussed, namely the greatest barrier to the large-scale uptake of EVs – namely the shortage of electric charging infrastructure. Enter Tesla and the city of Los Angeles.LA x EV: now power poles can charge your EV in Los Angeles. [Hollywood Electrics]Los Angeles has converted some of its streetlights into energy-efficient LEDs made an EV solution possible. In addition to lighting the land, these light posts have also become EV charging stations run by familiar companies such as ChargePoint, EVGo, Flo, and GreenLots. For only about $1 to $2 per hour EV’s can park for free while they recharge. So far there are 130 light standards that outfitted with stations but with a goal to have 100,000 new EVs on Los Angeles roads by 2025, that number is sure to go up. Meanwhile, the Kettleman City Tesla Supercharger station between Los Angeles and San Francisco is getting a mega upgrade. The V3 will be replacing the V2 rechargers, adding twice as much power output which will speed things up.
