FIRST: electric KTMs are coming!
After launching a first 'zero-emission' test balloon in October 2008, KTM is now coming up with two new prototypes. On the occasion of the Tokyo Motor Show, the Austrians are presenting two prototypes that are close to production under the name 'Freeride'. This concerns an off-road model and a supermoto model.
New opportunities for off-road sports
Due to the current restrictions faced by off-road riders around the world, there are many problems finding space for those who want to practice their sport. More and more motocross circuits and enduro roads are being closed, especially in densely populated areas. Almost always the main reason is noise pollution. The 'zero-emission' engine offers an answer to this with technology that combines low weight, power and performance with driving without noise or emissions. This not only makes it possible to drive off-road in a densely populated environment again, but this could also result in the creation of new parks and circuits. With riding opportunities closer to home, off-road sport can in turn appeal to a new audience. As the world leader in off-road motorcycles, KTM also wants to take its responsibility to ensure the future of our sport.
Pioneering technology
Developing a new, competitive cross or enduro motorcycle is already an enormous challenge, let alone an electric competition motorcycle. However, with the help of Arsenal Research, now the Austrian Institute of Technology, KTM has managed to develop completely new technology. The heart of this is the electric drive that delivers performance comparable to a regular 125cc two-stroke. In addition to impressive performance, the drive had to be safe, lightweight, dirt and weather resistant. No sinecure! The use of this revolutionary power source also required a complete rethink of the layout of the engine itself; the distribution of weight, the lack of a gearbox and exhaust and so on.
THE KTM FREERIDE IN QUESTION & ANSWER
When will the first electric KTM be on sale?
This summer, KTM will take this project into the pre-series stage. At the same time, an intensive testing program will also start. According to the current planning, the first Freeride models should be in the showroom at the end of next spring (2011).
How much will the Freeride motorcycles cost?
The final price has not yet been determined, but the intention is to remain below 10.000 euros. In the first phase, the price will be comparable to a conventional, high-quality enduro.
Are there other variants or models on the way?
The electric drive is of course suitable for multiple applications. However, KTM initially opted for enduro because they wanted to gain experience there and help develop this new sport. After that there is room for different models.
Is the Freeride actually homologated for the street?
Yes, the engine will be homologated for use on public roads.
What about the range of the Freeride?
With an electric motor, a lot depends on the profile of the rider. A professional motocross rider at the handlebars will have significantly less range than a calmer amateur endurist. KTM itself has a comfortable enduro use in mind as a development goal. On a mixed off-road route it should then be possible to drive for one hour.
How long does it take to charge the battery?
The battery is fully charged again after 90 minutes. Charging can be done with the battery in the motor, but it can also be quickly and easily replaced with another one.
How often can the battery be charged?
The final specifications of the battery are not yet known. Developments in this area are therefore moving quite quickly. With the batteries used at dirt time it is possible to recharge five hundred times. That roughly corresponds to the lifespan of an average enduro motorcycle.
Does the 'Freeride' eventually mean the end of the classic enduro with a combustion engine?
Certainly not. As for KTM, the new technology offers the opportunity to offer a third type of engines. On the one hand, there will still be high-performance four-strokes, on the other hand, two-strokes remain attractive to amateurs and beginners because of their low costs and ease of use. The electric motor will in turn take off-road sports to places where this is currently not possible and will probably appeal to a completely new customer base.
Specifications
Engine effective power 7.4 (10) kW (hp) at 6000 rpm
Engine peak power 22 (30) at 6000 rpm
Motor torque 43 / 500 Nm
Maximum speed 6600 rpm
Maximum battery voltage 300 V
Maximum energy capacity 2.5 kWh
Speed 70 km/h
Charging time 1.5 hours
Until. weight (incl. removable battery) 90 kg
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Photos credit: KTM
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