09 September, 2024: UK based company, White Motorcycle Concepts (WMC) has launched a fully-electric motorbike, the WMC300E+, designed to meet the specific demands of fleets and first responders globally. This new motorcycle, which offers rapid charging and enhanced aerodynamics, is set to revolutionise the mobility of emergency services, providing a sustainable yet high-performance alternative to traditional fleet vehicles.
The WMC300E+ delivers a 100-mile range based on the more aggressive drive cycles required by emergency services, with an extended range of 125 miles when measured against the WLTP standard. Thanks to a cutting-edge battery concept developed by Mahle Powertrain, this electric motorbike can be fully recharged in under 15 minutes using a standard CCS charger. This rapid charging capability is expected to enhance operational flexibility and significantly reduce downtime for first responders, allowing them to remain on standby with greater availability.
The vehicle is specifically tailored to the needs of emergency services, with its ability to maintain aerodynamic stability even when heavily loaded with equipment. It can operate at speeds up to 100 mph, making it suitable for fast response times in critical situations. Additionally, the bike’s design improves rider visibility, a crucial feature in high-pressure emergency environments where safety is paramount.
The WMC300E+ benefits from technology developed during WMC’s British electric motorcycle land-speed world record programme, where a specially designed electric bike achieved speeds of up to 250 mph (402 kph). This research and testing contributed to the development of market-ready innovations integrated into the WMC300E+, such as the patented V-Duct. The V-Duct, a venturi duct that runs through the centre of the motorcycle, significantly reduces aerodynamic drag, enhancing performance, improving stability, and reducing energy consumption.
According to Robert White, Founder and CEO of White Motorcycle Concepts, the electric motorcycle industry faces a significant challenge in developing vehicles that can rival the performance of petrol-powered equivalents. White highlighted that while current electric motorcycles are largely designed for retail markets, fleet customers, especially first responders, require high levels of availability, something that has been difficult to achieve due to extended charging times in existing models.
Partial funding for the development of the WMC300E+ was provided by the UK’s Advanced Propulsion Centre, which supported 12 automotive projects in 2023 with a total of £11 million in investment. This backing underscores the importance of sustainable transportation in the UK’s automotive future and highlights the government’s commitment to supporting innovative solutions for key sectors such as emergency services.
With the launch of the WMC300E+, White Motorcycle Concepts is setting a new standard for electric motorcycles, particularly in sectors where reliability and performance are crucial. The company’s innovative design and rapid-charging technology offer a practical solution for fleets and first responders, bridging the gap between electric mobility and operational demands. As the global push towards sustainable transportation intensifies, the WMC300E+ is positioned to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of electric motorcycles for essential services worldwide.
