Many adults would have giggled at the thought of riding an electric motorcycle or scooter to work just a few years ago. However, these two-wheeled electric vehicles have completely changed the game.
Electric motorcycles have shown to be a promising mode of transportation, serving as a fun solution to escape gridlocked traffic and hefty petrol prices. But let’s stop talking about how great the sector is.
Do you ever wonder when it all began? Have electric motorcycles ever been popular? This article will provide you with a brief history of electric motorcycles as well as some intriguing facts about them.
A Brief History of Electric Motorcycles
Electric vehicles were made possible by two technological advancements in the 1800s: the battery and the electric motor. Different kinds of batteries were invented back then, and they were typically messy enterprises.
Of course, inventions and applications are not the same things. For example, the rechargeable lead-acid battery, the one used in nearly all modern electric vehicles and motorbikes, was actually invented in 1859 by Gustave Planté.
It took even longer to develop and commercialize viable batteries. In fact, it wasn’t until the 1880s that a battery small enough and powerful enough to operate a vehicle was produced.
The electric motorcycle concept was first registered in France in 1871 by three different inventors. Obviously, the concept had been circulated among peers. The invention is clearly linked to the first mass fabrication of pedal bicycles in 1868.
Gustave Trouvé’s tricycle was the first practical demonstration of an electric motorcycle. Trouvé used a Starley quirky tricycle chassis equipped with his own rechargeable batteries and an electric engine.
Because the thought of such a vehicle had previously been patented, he was unable to register his version. Regardless, he transferred the trike’s electric battery and motor to a row boat and devised the outboard motor.
The First Mass-Produced Electric Motorcycle
So you’ve discovered who invented the first electric motorcycles. What about the first mass-produced electric motorcycles, though?
To answer your question quickly, the Socovel Electric was the very first mass-produced battery-powered motorcycle in the world. These electric motorcycles were a success, with over 1000 units built.
It was made up of a standard lightweight frame with three 12V batteries attached crosswise. It weighed 441 lb, with the (probably lead-acid) batteries accounting for roughly half of it.
It has a cruising speed of up to 20 miles per hour and a range of 27.5 miles. As you might expect, these figures would not impress any petrolheads. They were amazed by Socovel’s uphill climbing ability, however.
During the German occupation of Belgium during WWII, Socovel Electric rose to popularity. It was mostly caused by rationing, which resulted in a scarcity of gasoline.
Socovel continued to manufacture electric motorcycles after the war. They moved their focus, however, to more traditional two-stroke petrol engines. Given the ongoing shift toward electric motorcycles, the Socovel is regarded as a technological breakthrough.
Today’s Electric Motorcycle Industry
After more than a generation of electric car exposure and passionate enthusiasm, it’s time for electric motorbikes to take the limelight. While the sector is still in its early stages, it is already having a significant impact on the motorbike and automotive industries.
Below are some of the reasons why the electric motorcycle sector is having a bright prospect:
1. Faster commuting
Cities have a high population density whereas so many people rush to meet daily deadlines and schedules. Thus, it should come as no surprise that city dwellers often face traffic congestion.
This is where electric motorcycles can help with many of the traffic issues that communities face. They allow you to get to work in minutes without having to worry about getting stuck in traffic.
You also don’t have to bother about stopping at a gas station on your way to work. Simply charge your electric motorcycle at night and you’ll be ready to go in the morning. With more time on your hands, you can better manage your schedule.
2. Cost effective
Electric motorcycles may be slightly more expensive to buy than gas-powered motorcycles. However, when the cost of refueling is included, electric motorcycles offer significant savings.
You can save hundreds of dollars on “fueling” your bike over the course of a year. That does not include all of the multiple elements and maintenance that internal combustion engines require, such as oil, coolant, and other components.
Data suggests that switching to an electric motorcycle may save an average commuter more than $800 per year in fuel costs. In fact, the financial benefit might be even greater, because if you plug in at workplace, you won’t even be paying the electricity bill.
3. Clean and quiet
Perhaps most alluring, electric motorcycles are silent and environmentally friendly. Imagine driving along a coastal road and hearing nothing except the wind, birds, and waves breaking against the rocks.
Another reason to ride an electric motorcycle is that you will contribute less to global warming than the average gasoline-powered motorcycle rider. You will also notice an immediate difference on your surroundings because there are no hazardous fumes to inhale.
Key Takeaway
So, are you ready to enjoy all of the excitement and convenience that electric motorcycles offer? Nobody is stopping you from having a good time while also contributing to the transition to a more sustainable future.
It is never too late to get your first electric motorcycle! If you’re not sure which one to get or where to buy it, consider the Tromox Ukko S.
Ukko S is an electric motorcycle that is enjoyable, economical, and capable of taking you to a wide range of places. It has a 4kW motor and a range of up to 160 kilometers, which is an impressive figure for an electric motorcycle under $5000.
Even if you already have a couple of electric cars in your garage, getting a new electric motorcycle is never a bad idea. It is ideal for a short commute and provides a lot of entertainment.
