KTM Freeride E

[Car Loss]

News on KTM's e-motocrosser:

http://blog.derestricted.com/greenmotoring/ktm-freeride-electric-test-ride/
http://blog.derestricted.com/greenmotoring/ktm-freeride-electric-test-ride-little-vid/


Equivalent to a 125cc, with a ~2.1 kWh pack.  Very limited production run this calendar year, more next year.  Man, Brammo or BRD or whoever could really make a name for themselves by going head to head with this upscale brand... and winning.

Carlos

[Richard230]

It sure looks like all of the major motorcycle companies really don't want to jump into the EV market just yet and are barely testing the waters. That probably makes good business sense, as no one is getting rich (more likely loosing money) making EVs, be that cars or motorcycles. They don't invest much, keep up with the technology, get some positive press occasionally, and wait to see what happens.

[protomech]

I'm guessing some companies are getting rather rich in China and India. EV pedal bikes are low hanging fruit.

On cars, Tesla seems to have the best shot. Their profit maker, a $30-40k car, is 2-4 years out. They'd better get it right.

[Car Loss]

I'm guessing some companies are getting rather rich in China and India. EV pedal bikes are low hanging fruit.

Supposedly, Chinese cities have a thriving traffic in e-scooters, pedal or no pedal.  Nothing that would pass muster with American exceptionalism, but hey, they get there.

Perhaps this is why KTM is aiming for the 125cc class- lower expectations.  That, and the battery pulls out, vertically.  Your pack can only be so big before that trick doesn't convince any more.

On cars, Tesla seems to have the best shot. Their profit maker, a $30-40k car, is 2-4 years out. They'd better get it right.

Nah... if by "get it right," you mean "get a sugar daddy," then okay.  A Zero misstep means heads will roll.  A Tesla misstep means Musk dips into his stash again.  It's the same reason why Triumph made it out of the Valley of Death- no fickle beancounters shorting them after one bad quarter.  Also, Tesla has another business opening as consultants/suppliers/partners for other manufacturers, same deal as Mission or MotoCzysz.

Carlos