Novel electric motorcycle

An engineering team in the Netherlands has developed a novel lightweight electric motorcycle that is said to combine low running costs with good performance. Called the Orphiro, this motorcycle features a 72V lithium-ion battery pack that allows distances of up to 96km to be travelled on a single charge. The top speed of the motorcycle is 120km/h, allowing it to attain the maximum speed limit of most European nations, although it will be particularly suitable for short distance commuting. The range of the motorcycle varies depending on how it is ridden and testing has still to reveal how it performs in the metal. Braking and steering controls are the same as for a conventional motorcycle but it has no clutch or selection of gearbox ratios and speed is controlled solely by use of the throttle, simplifying its use. It is not clear if a noise generator will be fitted to boost safety and reduce the risk of collisions with inattentive pedestrians when operating in the urban environment, which is likely to be its largest market. The price range has yet to be revealed but the motorcycle will be made available next month in Europe.