Exclusive: Hero Electric develops high-speed electric bike

India’s leading electric two- and three-wheeler manufacturer, Hero Electric, has designed and developed a hi-speed electric motorcycle, which is currently a prototype and is at least 8 to 12 months away from its commercial launch, say official sources.

Though the project’s code name remains unknown at this stage, this prototype runs on a 2000W electric motor, which draws charge from a 48V lead acid battery. According to company sources, the bike can do a maximum speed of 60km per hour and runs up to 50km in a single battery charge. The lead acid battery, which is a major component adding substantial weight to this prototype at this stage, can be fully recharged in eight hours. The kerb weight along with many other basic specs of this prototype remains unknown as of now.

It is to be noted that electric two-wheelers which have power less than 250W and a top speed of less than 25kph do not come under the category of motor vehicles, and hence do not require a licence. However, hi-speed electric bikes and scooters which are primarily powered by either lithium ion or hi-performance lead acid batteries usually come under the category of vehicles demanding a licence because of their power output and top speed numbers.

Meant for city commute, this prototype, which is fitted with relatively smaller Kenda tyres (front: 120/70-12; rear: 130/70-12), is equipped with a number of premium features such twin headlights, LED indicators, engine cancel switch, digital speedometer, upside down telescopic forks in the front, monoshock at the rear as suspension systems, a disc brake each at front and rear tyres for stopping power, and many others.

According to official sources, the prototype is expected to see several changes before it is finalised for the commercial market.

Hero Electric has put this prototype on display at the Green Mobility Solutions pavilion showcasing electric and alternate fuel technologies. The green pavilion is a part of the ongoing International Engineering & Technology Fair (IETF) at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi. Organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), held since 1975, IETF is a biennial event.