VIDEO: Electric MX prototype proves itself in track test
Strong acceleration, control and grip in the corners, and stable on the straights of the track: the EMX-PRO left a good impression during its first track test. The dirt bike was developed by the Dutch companies ELEO and Dohms Projecten B.V., with support from Yamaha Motor Europe N.V. and the Royal Dutch Motorcyclists Association (KNMV).
The EMX-PRO was really put through its paces on the track. “It's promising to see what this dirt bike is capable of, especially since this is just the prototype.”, says Bas Verkaik of ELEO.
The electric motor provides a different motocross experience. There is plenty of torque from low speeds and no shifting is necessary. “This dirt bike is powerful and performs well, and it's really fast', describes Elmar Dohms, initiator of the project. 'The static tests on the dyno had already shown really good results. And now we can conclude from this first track test that the EMX-PRO lives up to its potential', continues Elmar Dohms.
Fully electric
The EMX-PRO is a dirt bike with a fully electric drivetrain. It shares the same chassis as the current Yamaha YZ250F. This machine was converted to electric within a year. In appearance it is a well-known MX motorcycle, but with the characteristics of an electric machine. There is no gearbox, but there is plenty of torque in the lower range, which allows the machine to be used differently than the current generation of MX machines with a combustion engine.
Chassis, battery, motor and steering wheel
The fuel engine and all associated components have been stripped from the YZ250f chassis. This chassis forms the basis for a tight-steering EMX motorcycle, so that it can be used under the most extreme conditions. During the first track tests, the EMX-PRO proved to be agile and light, grippy in the corners and stable on the straights of the circuit.
The special battery pack developed for the EMX-PRO fits an aluminum frame with two beams. The quick-change battery makes it easy to change the battery and thus allows continuous use. An external charger can be connected to a 230V socket.
The electric motor is liquid-cooled and is coupled to a “single-stage helical” gear transmission without clutch. Helical gears have bevel teeth and produce less friction noise. The secondary chain drive has a standard gear ratio. A liquid-cooled controller controls the electric motor.
The electronic throttle with soft grip gives the rider full control over power delivery. On the left side of the handlebar there is a mapping switch that allows the rider to choose between three power settings and the option to operate the rear brake with the left and right foot.
Continue to develop
The EMX-PRO will be further developed, as it will undergo many hours of testing in the near future. 'We will make improvements based on feedback from test drivers. We want to know what this machine can do. We only need to take a small step to make this dirt bike competitive', says Verkaik. To see the latest developments of the EMX-PRO, go to www.emx-powertrain.com.
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