Electric motorbike or scooter: What’s the range, and why choose one?
Electric motorbike or scooter: What’s the range, and why choose one?
With the boom in green technology and the push to cut CO2 emissions, electric motorbikes and scooters are becoming more and more popular. Once seen as niche curiosities, they’re now a serious alternative to traditional petrol-powered models, with global sales up by 30% in 2023. Let’s dive into their (many) perks and what makes them stand out.
The electric motorbike: Just the right range for the city
Batteries are getting better
The latest lithium-ion batteries are game-changers for the range of electric two-wheelers. More efficient and longer-lasting, they let you cover more ground without constantly hunting for a charging station. These days, top models can take you anywhere from 100 to 300 km on a single charge.
A vehicle perfectly suited for city driving
Electric motorbikes and scooters are built for the demands of city driving. They’re ideal for short trips and make parking a breeze. Charging stations—whether on the street or in car parks—are compatible with almost all current models, so it’s easy to recharge between journeys.
Perfect for city living, their removable batteries let you charge them at home or at work. With a standard charger, expect 4 to 6 hours for a full charge, or less than 2 hours with a fast charger.
How does an electric motorbike work?
An electric motorbike is powered by the energy stored in its lithium-ion battery, which is transferred directly to the wheels through an electric propulsion system. This setup, with no clutch or gears, provides smooth, quiet, and instant acceleration—just what you need for city driving.
The advantages of electric motorbikes
Lower maintenance costs
One of the standout perks of electric two-wheelers is their lower maintenance costs. With fewer components and engine parts, they require less upkeep than traditional models. For instance, there’s no need to change the oil!
On top of that, charging costs are much cheaper than refuelling. You’ll pay around €0.50 for 100 km, compared to €5 for a petrol-powered motorbike.
Impressive performance
With increasingly efficient motors (ranging from 3 to 10 kW for city models, and up to 15 kW for sports versions), electric motorbikes deliver strong performance, offering acceleration and top speeds that rival their petrol counterparts.
For city and suburban use, a 125-cc scooter or motorbike is the way to go, with plenty of acceleration for overtaking. If you’re into sports or off-roading, electric dirt bikes or motocross models offer even greater power.
Smooth and effortless riding
Silent and vibration-free, electric two-wheelers provide a smooth, enjoyable ride. Plus, since they’re not restricted by low-emission zones (LEZs), riders can cruise through the city without adding to noise pollution—something that makes life easier for local residents, too.
Electric motorbike: The eco-friendly and cost-effective option
A step towards a greener future
By opting for an electric scooter, you’re doing your bit for the green revolution. You’re using clean energy and helping to cut down on CO2 emissions.
While the production of lithium-ion batteries still has some environmental drawbacks, innovative solutions, like recycling, are being explored to reduce their impact. In the near future, advancements in energy storage could help limit the environmental footprint of electric motorbikes while pushing mobility towards an even greener future.
Government incentives for electric motorbikes
While electric two-wheelers may have a higher price tag upfront, the UK government is offering a grant for purchasing electric motorbikes and scooters (category L3 only) until April 2025. The subsidy covers up to 20% of the price, with a maximum of £1,500. To qualify, vehicles must meet certain criteria regarding range and performance. For full details, head over to gov.uk.
The licence required for an electric motorbike depends on its power. If the bike is up to 11 kW, you’ll need an A1 licence, available from 17 years old. For more powerful models, you’ll need an A licence.
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