Le Mans is an historic venue, steeped in folklore, and home of the world famous twenty-four races for cars and bikes. Whilst the cars use the long road circuit, the bikes use the shorter Bugatti circuit, but the tremendous atmosphere is the same for both. In motorcycle terms, the Le Mans 24 hours has superseded being a race – it has become an event, and one that attracts over 90,000 fans every year.
Dean Harrison “The atmosphere was unbelievable. When I started to go out on the track, the hairs on the back of my head rose up and I knew I was part of something special. I have raced on the Isle of Man and also on many circuits, but this was different and incredibly exciting. I had a fantastic time going round the track and was sorry when I had to come back into the pits.
I didn’t want this feeling to end, so I spent the rest of the day and the evening wandering around the pits and paddock, soaking up the atmosphere and seeing what this new world was all about.
I am so happy to be given this chance by Saroléa and would like to be part of their team in the future – whatever that might be.”
Torsten Robbens (Saroléa CTO)
“I have been to Le Mans before and I have worked at Le Mans before. But seeing the SP7 start two corners before the finish line and then do a lap of this famous race circuit was definitely something special and something that I will remember for a long time to come. But, for Saroléa, this is just the start of our project with Le Mans, because I am happy to announce that the ACO (Automobile Club de L’Ouest)) has registered our candidature for us to take part in the 2019 Le Mans 24 hours – in the experimental category. We have already had our first contact with the FIM regarding the regulations and found them very serious and enthusiastic about the EWC (Endurance World Championship) and racing in the future. With their experience and valuable input from us and other interested parties, the future ahead is very positive. For us, this would be an amazing step in our history and one that is going to involve a lot of hard work. We are already working with all our partners designing a new carbon-fibre monocoque chassis, using Solvay composite materials, that will allow us to do battery swaps in fast, but safe, conditions. We recently entered an agreement with EWC specialist Dunlop and we will work together to understand the requirements of future mobility in regards to tyres and their development. Finally, I would just like to say a big thank you to the ACO for letting us be part of this iconic event this year and also for putting us the list to be a candidate in next year’s Le Mans 24 hours.”
Electric Superbike manufacturer Saroléa are delighted to announce that the ACO (Automobile Club de l’Ouest) has invited them to attend the prestigious Le Mans 24-hour motorcycle race this year.
Shortly before the start of the race, on Saturday 21st April, the Saroléa SP7 will do two demonstration laps in front of over 75,000 spectators. Guiding the SP7 around the famous 4.185 km circuit will be talented racer Dean Harrison, who has been Saroléa’s development rider for the past three years.
The occasion also marks the official debut of the SP7 on Dunlop tyres, with whom Saroléa has entered a technical partnership. Both parties see this precious cooperation as a valuable R&D tool, which will only enhance their further progress on road and track.
Torsten Robbens (Saroléa CTO)
“When we were looking for a tyre partner to support our project, it was natural that we turned to Dunlop. Dunlop is the most successful tyre manufacturer in endurance racing, and is the reigning FIM Endurance World Champion tyre manufacturer. Our motorcycle has immense torque and requires a tyre that can cope with our unique demands. In testing, the Dunlops provided the grip and durability required for our project.”
Wim Van Achter (Motorcycle Motorsport Manager Dunlop Europe)
“Dunlop is very impressed with the progress and ambition of the Saroléa team. We have significant experience with electric motorcycles, with our tyres having been used by the winners of the Isle of Man TT Zero race. We are proud that Saroléa have chosen us as a partner. It is an exciting partnership – as we both share ambitious goals for the future of electric racing.”
KTM unveiled its second-generation FREERIDE E-XC model year 2018 at the Red Bull Hangar-7 in Salzburg, Austria and presented its future plan for the e-mobility segment.
The powerful and agile KTM FREERIDE E-XC is now even better. Powered by a state-of-the-art electric motor with a peak of 18 kW fitted into a re-designed composite frame that provides even better stability, this e-machine now benefits from a 50 % capacity increase in its new KTM PowerPack, which offers up to one and a half hours of riding time with just one battery charge. The new KTM FREERIDE E-XC now also utilises energy recuperation when coasting or braking for an additional range boost, and the battery has a quick charging time, while also providing 70% of its initial capacity after 700 charge cycles. In addition, this lightweight bike boasts a new WP Xplor 43 upside-down fork system with enhanced sensitivity, and a new WP PDS Xplor shock absorber with improved progression and adjustment options.
The KTM FREERIDE E-XC features three riding modes: Economy, Enduro and Cross. Its easy operation, with no clutch or gear shift lever, and a confidence inspiring low seat height of just over 900 mm, combined with its extreme cross-country agility, ensures that this is the ultimate electrically powered machine for beginners to experienced level riders. Stylish new bodywork with racy graphics, trim and colors, a new dashboard and re-positioned ignition lock provide further benefits over the previous model. Complying with A1 licence requirements and producing zero local emissions with minimal noise pollution, the possibilities are endless with the ultra-playful KTM FREERIDE E-XC.
Not only does the KTM FREERIDE E-XC offer major environmental advantages, the cost of running the bike is vastly reduced over an equivalent combustion motorcycle. To fully charge the KTM PowerPack for the KTM FREERIDE E-XC the cost is less than EUR0.8 (20 Cent/kW x 3,9 kW) and when compared to the KTM FREERIDE 250 F, for 1.5 hours of riding the cost in fuel would be approximately four or five times more.
This latest e-powered machine is part of KTM’s long-term commitment to e-mobility, which began over 10 years ago in KTM’s research and development department in Mattighofen, Austria. The Austrian brand plans a range of machines for the future including e-mini, and an e-scooter, as well as maximising its partnership with PEXCO with a new possibility to produce crossover products in the bicycle sector. The vision is clear, and by 2025 KTM will increase emphasis on machines from 250 watt to 11kWh due to market suitability and efficiency.
Stefan Pierer (KTM CEO): “We are proud to present the new KTM FREERIDE E-XC, which marks the next step in development of e-mobility within KTM and is a continuation of our commitment to this segment. We know that e-mobility will change the landscape of travel in the future, and our vision is very clear. Looking ahead to 2025 we expect to have a wider range of models available with a focus in the commuting arena. We also plan crossover machines with our collaboration with PEXCO, as well as using our e-mobility expertise in other applications.”
The new KTM FREERIDE E-XC will arrive in dealers in certain markets at the beginning of next year, and for more information please visit www.ktmfreeride-e.com
BMW C evolution qualifies for £1,500 subsidy as part of £35 million government incentive.
New government initiative to boost electric vehicle sales now includes the BMW C evolution.
BMW’s revolutionary C evolution electric scooter has qualified for a £1,500 grant thanks to a new government initiative aimed at further boosting ultra-low emissions vehicle sales.
The new £35 million package was recently unveiled by Transport Minister John Hayes, with funding going towards grants for buyers along with a commitment to increase the number of chargepoints on streets and places of work.
An initial £3.75 million is being made available for motorcycle and scooter riders, providing them with up to 20 per cent off the cost of an electric motorcycle or scooter. Buyers will be able to claim a maximum discount of £1,500, reducing the cost of the current standard BMW C evolution price to £10,730 from £12,230. The price of the new, longer-range BMW C evolution Plus will be reduced to £12,000 from the current £13,500 with the grant deduction.
Transport Minister John Hayes said: “No matter what mode of transport you need – a scooter to get to work, a car or a van to run your business – we are here to help you do it with zero emissions.
“The number of ultra-low emission vehicles on our roads are at record levels and new registrations have risen by 250 per cent in just over two years.
“We are committing £35 million to help install new chargepoints and offer new grants as we aim for nearly all cars and vans on our roads to be zero emission by 2050.”
The funding includes:
Up to £10 million funding for chargepoints outside workplaces and homes where there is no off-street parking
Launch of an initial £3.75 million scheme to encourage uptake of zero emission motorcycles and scooters
£2 million awarded to public and private sector organisations to deploy hydrogen fuel cell vehicles
Next steps of a £20 million competition that will help councils roll out chargepoints for ultra-low emission taxis
For more information on BMW Motorrad products, or to find your local BMW Motorrad Retailer, visit www.bmw-motorrad.co.uk or call 0800 777 155.
Government announces grant saving up to £1,500 for electric motorcycles.
Business Minister Matthew Hancock announced the subsidy which will apply to BMW Motorrad’s electric maxi-scooter.
New purchasers of the BMW C evolution maxi-scooter will be among the first riders able to take advantage of a grant for electric motorcycles just announced by the UK Government.
The grant offers up to £1,500 off the purchase price of a new electric motorcycle and allows motorcyclists to reduce both their running costs and environmental impact.
Up to £7.5m will be set aside to boost the uptake for electric two wheelers, with significant benefits both for the environment and reducing personal travel costs.
Phil Horton, General Manager for BMW Motorrad UK, said: “This is hugely important step forward in the government’s policy for electric vehicles. BMW Group is at the forefront of electric vehicle development with the i3 and i8 cars – and the C evolution is the first two wheeled electric vehicle to bear the Motorrad brand. With the grant from the Government factored in, the C evolution becomes an even more appealing option for urban commuters and riders.”
Business Minister Matthew Hancock said: “Low emission vehicles are the future and show that we can meet our climate change commitments without giving up our cars or motorbikes. Electric motorcycles and scooters have got fantastic potential and can be a real force for good.
“This investment shows we are serious about increasing the uptake of cleaner vehicles in the UK and offer a fantastic place for firms to locate their R&D and manufacturing facilities. Supporting new technologies is a key part of our long-term economic plan.”
Customers purchasing a new electric motorcycle meeting the subsidy’s requirements – which includes the BMW C evolution – will have the purchase price reduced.
Brammo, Inc., is pleased to announce that, as part of its European expansion, the much-anticipated Brammo Empulse, Empulse R and Enertia Plus electric motorcycles will be offered for sale in the United Kingdom commencing in the second quarter of 2014 through authorized Brammo dealerships. Brammo will be working with Going Green and Darvill Distribution to ensure success in the United Kingdom.
Going Green has been appointed as the exclusive Brammo importer for the UK. In its role as exclusive importer it will be responsible for the development and ongoing management of the authorized dealer network for Brammo sales and service.
Brammo enjoys an outstanding reputation for pre- and post-sales support and will maintain those high standards in the UK. Going Green will ensure that the Brammo customer experience is as enjoyable in the UK as it is in the USA.
Darvill Distribution has been appointed by Going Green as the Brammo Agent for the UK market. Darvill will support Going Green in the area of dealer development together with the design and development of Darvill performance accessories for Brammo motorcycles to be made available on a global basis.
Ron Luttrell, Director of Sales for Brammo said, ”We are committed to the UK market and are excited and confident that, by working with Going Green and Darvill Distribution, we have a winning formula.”
In addition, Darvill will use its extensive racing pedigree to spearhead Brammo’s racing efforts in Europe. This will involve campaigning factory supported Brammo motorcycles against petrol-powered motorcycles and against other electric motorcycles. This effort is a continuation of Brammo’s dedication to European racing which began with its podium finish at the inaugural Isle of Man TTXGP race in 2009. Brammo is currently the 2013 North America, FIM eRR World Cup Champion.
About Brammo
Brammo Inc. is a leading electric vehicle technology company headquartered in North America. Brammo designs and develops electric vehicles including the award winning Enertia and Empulse motorcycles. Brammo is the 2013 North America, FIM eRR World Cup Champion. Brammo is an OEM supplier of its innovative Brammo Digital Drivetrain systems including the Brammo Power battery pack and Brammo Power vehicle management system. Brammo has vehicle distribution and marketing operations in North America, Europe, and Asia.
Brammo Announces 2014 Empulse – the World’s Fastest Electric Motorcycle in Serial Production.
Brammo, Inc., is pleased to announce its 2014 Empulse and Empulse R.
The 2014 Empulse is an evolution of the highly acclaimed, award winning 2013 Empulse. With its unique water cooled motor, six speed gearbox and integrated J1772 rapid charging, the Empulse remains as the market leader in the category.
A top speed of 110mph (177kph) and a 3kW onboard charger means the Brammo Empulse retains its crown as the world’s fastest electric motorcycle in serial production both riding and charging.
The 2014 Empulse embodies many new and improved components making it an EV technology tour de force. Fully 10lbs of weight is removed from the Empulse, further improving performance, handling, and range.
With the ground-breaking IET integrated 6-speed transmission, the Empulse is able to translate its 90Nm (66 lb-ft) of electric motor torque to over 880Nm (650 ft-lbs) at the rear wheel*. That’s enough forward thrust to relegate direct-drive competitors to the rear view mirrors and compel the motorcycling press to compare the substantial performance to that of 650cc twin class motorcycles.
*In first gear.
Of course performance isn’t everything, and so the Empulse also boasts an impressive 438 MPGe (MPG electric equivalency) (.54 litre/100km-e) fuel economy, making the Empulse a smart move from a cost of ownership perspective as one of the cheapest motorcycles on the planet to refuel.
Craig Bramscher, Founder and CEO of Brammo said ”Our customers expect Brammo to design and produce the world’s most desirable, high performance electric motorcycles and that’s exactly what we do.” Bramscher continued, “Today’s announcement underlines our commitment to listen to our customers and continually improve our products.”
Brian Wismann , Head of Product Development at Brammo said ”The 2014 Empulse represents a huge effort by the engineering team at Brammo to further refine and reduce the platform’s weight for the bike’s sophomore model year.” Wismann added “We’ve also ensured that the bike is ready for its European launch with additional testing and certifications required for the EU market. All the hard work will be worth it when the first customer in Europe twists the throttle and gets their first ’EV grin.’”
Charging – Still the only electric motorcycle to offer a 3kW integrated onboard charger, the 2014 Empulse is compatible with nearly 7000 Level 2 public charging stations available in the US, with no extra equipment required. An Empulse owner can charge from 20% to 80% in less than 2 hours using this existing nationwide charging infrastructure. Overnight charges in your garage are no problem either, as the Empulse comes standard with a J1772 charge coupler that plugs into a standard household outlet.
Battery Brackets –The distinctive Empulse battery brackets that secure the Brammo Power 15/90 battery packs are now redesigned and nickel plated, adding a distinctive and technical look to the bike’s familiar profile.
Dash – The 2014 Empulse sports a redesigned LCD dash in a robust waterproof housing, which displays a wide range of riding metrics including: battery SOC (State-of-Charge), road speed, motor speed, odometer, energy use, gear position, battery status, estimated range, and system status.
Handlebars – The 2014 Empulse has changed to a tapered aluminum handlebar with oversized clamp diameter. These bars give a better overall riding position and are manufactured by Accossato in Italy specifically for the 2014 Brammo Empulse R.
Tires – 2014 sees a move to new rubber manufactured by Continental. The SportAttack 2 is acknowledged as the best all-round performer. Continental engineers focused on creating a sport bike tire that can provide the best overall quality.
The SportAttack 2 uses a Continuous Compound. This allows Continental to use one single compound throughout the tire but still have different wear and grip characteristics for the center and sides of the tire. During the molding process, the sides and center of the tire are heated at dissimilar temperatures to make the compound softer or harder. This treatment creates a seamless transition from the more flexible sides to the more wear resistant center.
ContiSportAttack2 120-70 ZR17, 58W. (front)
ContiSportAttack2 180-55 ZR17, 73W. (rear)
Colors – Two new colors are introduced to the color palette this year, standard for the Empulse R and optional for the Empulse. In addition to True Blood Red and Eclipsed Black, customers can now select:
Maillot Jaune* Yellow and Neodymium** Silver Metallic.
*Maillot Jaune is French for the famous Yellow Jersey given to the rider who finishes all stages of the Tour de France in the fastest combined time. (Named in honor of the French-born Brammo Engineer that pushed hard for this color option.)
** Neodymium is a silvery element in the alloys used to make high-strength neodymium magnets.
Bold New Brammo Graphics – The lower body panel now sports a white Brammo logo to make identification even easier for those not yet familiar with the world leader in electric motorcycles.
Global Availability – During 2014 the award winning Empulse and Empulse R will become available in the United States, Canada, Europe (including the United Kingdom), and in Asia. Brammo’s ever growing dealer network and service capability ensure that our high levels of customer service will be maintained as the company scales up its international operations.
Industry Leadership – Brammo’s new 100,000 sq ft (9290 m2) campus in Southern Oregon is home to the world’s largest electric motorcycle facility, both the Brammo Power BPM15/90 battery packs and the 2014 Brammo Empulse are designed and assembled in Southern Oregon.
Pricing
Model
USA $
Canada C$
Europe €
UK £
Asia HK$
Empulse R
18995
21949
17640
14999
155995
Empulse
16995
19949
15240
12998
139995
Enertia Plus
10995
12999
10800
8034
89995
Prices are for guidance only. See your local dealer for details. European prices include VAT, which varies slightly between countries. USA, Canadian, and Asian prices do not include sales tax. None of the prices include registration or licensing.
Battery Warranty – The 2014 Empulse battery modules come with a limited five year or 50,000 miles battery warranty, whichever comes first.
Brammo Inc. is a leading electric vehicle technology company headquartered in North America. Brammo designs and develops electric vehicles including the award winning Enertia and Empulse motorcycles. Brammo is the 2013 North America, FIM eRR World Cup Champion. Brammo is an OEM supplier of its innovative Brammo Digital Drivetrain systems including the Brammo Power battery pack and Brammo Power vehicle management system. Brammo has vehicle distribution and marketing operations in North America, Europe, and Asia.
Brammo Introduces Retail Incentives as Federal Tax Credit for Two Wheel Electric Vehicles Expires.
Brammo, Inc., a leading developer of electric vehicle technology and manufacturer of electric vehicles, announces a $2000 retail incentive on the 2013 Brammo Empulse and a $1000 retail incentive on the 2013 Enertia Plus.
These incentives will ensure that those riders who want to purchase a model year 2013 Brammo don’t see the after tax cost increase by 10% simply because the Federal Tax Incentive has now expired.
This time last year, U.S. Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Congressman Greg Walden (R-Ore.), and U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) successfully sought an extension of the Federal Tax Credit for two wheel electric vehicles for 2012 and 2013. That extension has now expired.
Brammo continues to lobby for an extension of the Federal Tax Credit for two wheel vehicles. Craig Bramscher, CEO and Founder of Brammo said, “It is widely accepted that Federal Incentives will help kick start the EV industry. Four wheel EVs, from the Tesla S to the Smart Car, receive a $7500 Federal Tax Credit. Our customers and dealers believe that a 10% incentive on two wheel EV’s will provide benefits ranging from decreased dependence on fossil fuels to a cleaner environment, and we agree.”
About Brammo
Brammo Inc. is a leading electric vehicle technology company headquartered in North America. Brammo designs and develops electric vehicles including the award winning Enertia and Empulse motorcycles. Brammo are the 2013 North America, FIM eRR World Cup Champions. Brammo is an OEM supplier of its innovative Brammo Digital Drivetrain systems including the Brammo Power battery pack and Brammo Power vehicle management system. Brammo has vehicle distribution and marketing operations in North
America, Europe and Asia.
Designed and assembled in Oregon USA and contains many US components.
Photo: This cutaway Empulse will be on display in the Texas Instruments Village at CES in Las Vegas.
Motorcycle Industry News and Images mainly from UK
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