Some states (AL) don't even require a riding test to get your M certification.
Agree that the XU is not a good choice to learn if you plan to ride a typical motorcycle. However, there are automatic ICE motorcycles available (Honda NC700, Aprilia Mana) if you are disinterested in learning or operating a clutch and sequential shifter. Many scooters are automatic as well, but the MSF has a separate scooter course.
I would assume the XU would be offered alongside a conventional motorcycle, so that you could choose what you wanted to learn on. The opportunity to learn the more important controls without also struggling with a clutch could attract new riders who would otherwise dismiss motorcycling as a legitimate form of transportation - and perhaps more importantly, new circles of riders.
A conventional motorcycle has five basic controls: handlebars, throttle, clutch, sequential manual transmission, front/rear brakes. Both the clutch and transmission are crutches required for a combustion engine bike, although they can provide some benefits to low-powered electrics like the Empulse.
Higher power electrics, like the Lightning race bike (or supposedly the BRD redshift, which has a bit less power than the Empulse but far less weight, perhaps a lower top speed as well?) can power-wheelie at will at low speeds. Torque doesn't need multiplication at that point!
