Investment Opportunities in Electric Motorcycles

The global push towards environmental awareness, often referred to as the ‘green wave,’ has prompted vehicle manufacturers to prioritize electrification. However, in the world of motorcycles, affordability remains a formidable hurdle to overcome, despite efforts to deliver a comparable or superior experience.

Sense of affordability

The appeal of a motorcycle lies in its capacity for autonomy and freedom, characteristics that shouldn’t be compromised. A typical motorcycle can travel more than 300 kilometers on a single tank of fuel, with the ability to refuel up to three times a day if needed. While electric motorcycles offer lower maintenance costs and eliminate the need for items like coolant, engine oil, or filter replacements, their upfront cost can be a deterrent. In fact, electric motorcycles can be up to 100% more expensive than their gasoline counterparts in some regions.

Electric motorcycle. Unsplash (2021)

Innovations that make electric motorcycles stand out

Embarking on the journey of riding an electric motorcycle should evoke a sense of pride and excitement. To stand out in the market and establish yourself as a leader, consider implementing the following innovations:

• Sound system: Incorporate a sound system that emits corresponding sounds and vibrations as the engine speed increases during startup. When the engine is at idle, a subtle humming sound indicates readiness. As well as being an aesthetic enhancement, this system also improves safety by alerting pedestrians to approaching vehicles.
• Augmented reality helmets: Integrate augmented reality features into helmets, displaying vital information such as gradient, speed, and navigation directly on the visor.
• Unique design: Ensure that the design, including the helmet, offers distinctive features that riders can take pride in, setting them apart from conventional models.
• Battery and supercapacitor system: Develop a system that minimizes energy loss through regenerative braking, speeds up charging times, and extends battery life—an innovation yet to be introduced by major manufacturers.
• Automatic braking systems: Implement front and rear braking systems that automatically balance and coordinate with intelligent features like ABS and Control-Start, enhancing rider control and safety.
• Anti-theft systems: Integrate sophisticated anti-theft systems linkedto mobile phone SIM cards, enabling GPS tracking and triggering alarms if the motorcycle is moved without authorization.
• Hybridization: Explore hybridization options, such as incorporating a small diesel fuel tank and a high-efficiency generator unit mounted on the engine. This setup continuously recharges the batteries and extends the range by up to 30%, offering versatility and reliability.

With these innovations, electric motorcycles can redefine the riding experience and set new standards in the industry.

Challenges of prototyping an electric motorcycle

Prototyping and delivering an electric motorcycle is a challenge, to say the least. Although some major manufacturers have had prototypes for many years, they realize that affordability is an inescapable problem that they cannot solve.

E-motorcycle charging. Unsplash (2021)

Prototyping a motorcycle demands a considerable investment, including:

• Comprehensive study of the various systems as integral parts of the whole
• Documentation and patenting procedures
• Compliance with different standards and regulations

While each system has its own unique challenges, the battery and motor stand out as indispensable. These components are the epitome of innovation and represent a significant proportion of the total cost of the machine.

Conclusion

Potential investors typically look for system ownership assurances, detailed plans and patented technologies before committing to initial investment. Rather than succumbing to desperation, it’s wise to start with modest steps. Identifying individuals who share the vision and are willing to invest in its future success is critical.

Initiating investment efforts by developing one of the systems with the highest potential for success serves as a proof of concept for future endeavors.

Exploring government funding avenues is also advisable. Governments around the world are often the primary backers of green technologies. While proof of concept remains a prerequisite, establishing an investment relationship with government entities can yield significant support over time, similar to partnerships with venture capital firms.