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Jan 31
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1951 Jacobsen Power Cycle Prototype Discovered

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by Bandit, Cabana Dan and the National Motorcycle Museum

A brother, Cabana Dan owns this bike. There were only ten built as prototypes to compete with the Whizzer kit motorbikes. Dan only knows of two and this is one of them. It’s been housed in the National Motorcycle Museum for years.

In the early years, the American motorcycle industry served riders with a broad range of machines including lightweight singles. But post-Depression most American motorcycles were at least 500cc’s and had a considerable weight and price tag. The price of a new Indian or Harley-Davidson could buy most of a new Ford or Chevy.

Read & View this Jacobsen gem only in Bandit’s Cantina – Click Here

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Feb 25
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Buell Unveiling World’s Fastest Production Dirt Bike in Daytona

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Grand Rapids, MI – Buell Motorcycle is back and unveiling yet another future model at Daytona Bike Week 2022. On Saturday March 5th at high noon, Buell will unveil the new Baja DR (Dune Racer) test prototype in their booth at Destination Daytona. The Buell Baja DR will be the world’s fastest production dirt bike, built right here in America.

“This is a pivotal moment for American motorcycles and really puts Buell on the map. We are on track to build the world’s fastest and solely American-built production off road bike,” said Bill Melvin, CEO of Buell Motorcycle Co. adding, “less than 1% of the world is covered with pavement, the Buell Baja DR is designed to dominate the other 99.7%. It will give riders the freedom to go anywhere in the world, faster and with more power, harnessing our 1190 engine. The Buell Baja DR is a beast, elevating the brand to even greater heights, and will bring passion back for American-built motorcycles.”

Buell’s entry into the off-road segment won’t go unnoticed by the competition. The Buell Baja DR takes its design inspiration from Buell’s success on the American Hillclimb racing circuit with 2X World Champion Logan Cipala on board. Buell has posted videos of the race prototype on their Instagram page. The 1190 flies through the air, while racing in only first gear!

The production Baja DR model specs and features are: 175hp liquid cooled, 72-degree V-twin engine with 101 ft lbs. of torque, trellis frame, adjustable swing arm for a 66” to 70” wheelbase, and industry standard 37” seat height with 26.75 degree rake. The Buell Baja DR will be unmatched at the top of the market for speed and performance, while clearly signaling the New Buell will not be strictly on-road any longer but going off-road too.

Reservations for production slots for the Baja DR model will go live on March 5th at 12pm EST (noon) and cost just $25. Estimated retail for the model will start at $19,995 with production planned for 2023.

Learn more about what the future has to offer from Buell at Daytona Bike Week 2022 with the unveiling of the new Baja DR and SuperTouring model prototypes on Saturday March 5th. Both motorcycles will be available for customers to view March 5th to 13that Destination Daytona in the booths 100 yards north of JP Cycles Superstore.

Buell is back and unveiling the future while delivering excitement at every turn.

For future Buell updates, follow our news page on our website and our social media pages.

Website: www.BuellMotorcycle.com

Email for Information: Info@BuellMotorcycle.com

Dec 07
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Triumph Collector Stumbles Across Ultimate Collectible, the 1901 Prototype

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from https://www.autoevolution.com/ by Daniel Patrascu

At the turn of the last century, a time when horse-drawn carriages turned into automobiles and bicycles into motorcycles, most of the companies active back then wanted a piece of the new action, and turned their businesses around to include the production of the new mechanical wonders.

So did a British enterprise that went by the name Triumph Engineering, which used to make bicycles. Which, if you come to think of it, are just like motorcycles, only without engines, hence easy to re-make.

And that’s exactly what Triumph did with one of its bikes, fitting it with a Minerva engine and opening the doors to a history that has spanned so far for 120 years. That production motorized two-wheeler came to be in 1902, but as you can imagine, a prototype had to be made before that. A prototype that, like many others of its kind, was considered lost for a long time, despite rumors surrounding its existence floating around.

Extremely conveniently-timed, the first 1901 Triumph motorcycle prototype just resurfaced, having been uncovered by a collector named Dick Shepherd, and put back into the spotlight by the company itself.

According to the available details, attesting to the motorcycle’s authenticity are the engine number, “consistent with references in Minerva’s engine records of a 1901 first Triumph engagement,” and a “letter from Triumph, dated in 1937, that outlined the bike’s unique origins and provided key details.”

As far as we understand, the bike was uncovered some time ago, as the collector had time to restore it.

“As a lifelong passionate fan of the history and achievements of this incredible British brand, to have discovered this amazing survivor and restored it to the glorious condition it would have been in when it first went on display in 1901, has given me an immense amount of satisfaction,” Shepherd said in a statement.

The prototype will be, of course, included in the celebration events the British company has planned for next year, and it will be shown, together with the millionth Triumph manufactured in Hinckley, in a special display being set up at the factory.

PRESS RELEASE

4 DECEMBER 2021 – An amazing historic find, discovered and restored by leading vintage Triumph collector Dick Shepherd, the 1901 Prototype rewrites the history books, adding a whole new chapter prior to Triumph’s official sales starting in 1902.

Long rumoured to exist and referenced within advertising and reviews that appeared in 1901, this first Triumph prototype was developed from a standard Triumph bicycle, with an engine provided by Belgian manufacturer Minerva, in order to generate interest and gauge the public’s demand for a Triumph motorcycle.

Dick Shepherd said “Having been approached by a friend of a collector, who had sadly recently passed away, to evaluate an old Triumph I was incredibly excited to discover that the bike they had featured unique details that were not present on the first production Triumphs. Along with the bike, the collector had also received a letter from Triumph, dated in 1937, that outlined the bike’s unique origins and provided key details.”

“With an engine number that is consistent with references in Minerva’s engine records of a 1901 first Triumph engagement the historic significance of this motorcycle became incredibly clear.”

“As a lifelong passionate fan of the history and achievements of this incredible British brand, to have discovered this amazing survivor and restored it to the glorious condition it would have been in when it first went on display in 1901, has given me an immense amount of satisfaction.”

First unveiled at the UK’s Motorcycle Live show the 1901 prototype will feature in dedicated event at Triumph’s Factory Visitor Experience on the 14th December, where the machine will be ridden in public for the very first time in over 100 years.

This incredible, historic motorcycle will then be on display, alongside the millionth Hinckley Triumph, in a new, specially created 120-year anniversary display, hosted within Triumph’s Factory Visitor Experience.

The Triumph Factory Visitor Experience is free to visit and is located at Triumph’s HQ in Hinckley, England and is open daily Wednesday through Sunday, from 10am – 4.30pm.

Dec 06
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Norton Motorcycles unveils new Café Racer bike

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from https://www.coventrytelegraph.net/ by Enda Mullen

The V4CR, a derivative of the company’s V4SV superbike, will go on show at Motorcycle Live

Legendary manufacturer Norton Motorcycles has revealed a prototype of a new motorcycle. The V4CR, is a Café Racer derivative of the company’s V4SV superbike.

It is the first prototype to be designed, engineered and built at the company’s recently opened global headquarters in Solihull.

It shares the same engineering DNA as the superbike, including its 185bhp 1200cc V4 engine as well as some engineering advancements.

Norton said the new V4CR’s stripped-back appearance showcases the craftsmanship and quality behind one of the most powerful British café racers out there.

Fitted with a carbon fibre fuel tank and body panels, polished billet aluminium swingarm and frame, the V4CR also features compact framework and a shorter rear frame for an aggressive and commanding stance.

Norton Motorcycles’ CEO Dr Robert Hentschel said: “The prototype VC4R is the next step in Norton’s strategic growth plan on its journey to becoming the world-leader in luxury hand-crafted motorcycles.”

The V4CR prototype is Norton’s latest project to use the marque’s refined V4 platform, revised over the last 16 months by a team of 30 engineers and subject to tens of thousands of road and track miles, as part of Norton’s development process.

The V4CR reintroduces fans to Norton’s iconic café racer heritage.

Norton’s V4CR prototype will make its public debut at Motorcycle Live, taking place at the NEC in Solihull from December 4-12.

Norton formally opened its Solihull headquarters in November this year.

The motorcycle maker has a long and illustrious history, though fell on hard times before being revived.

It became one of the most iconic British motorcycle brands, manufacturing famous models such as the 650SS, Atlas, Commando, Dominator, Manx, Navigator and many more.

It gained a reputation as an innovator in motorcycle technology, with features combining lightness and strength in motorcycle racing.

Norton Motorcycles has a rich history in motorsport and the brand name is synonymous with the famous Isle of Man TT.

The new headquarters in Solar Park, Shirley, is home to design, engineering, purchasing, sales, marketing, and support teams – as well as the skilled production team that is resuming the manufacture of motorcycles.

Norton Motorcycles’ revival and relocation from Castle Donington comes after it was acquired by TVS Motor Company, India’s third-largest motorcycle manufacturer in April 2020.

Oct 23
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Tiny Triumph Motorcycle Range in Prototype – targets 200 to 750cc engine market segment

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by Todd Halterman from https://www.autoevolution.com

Tiny Triumphs and EV Motorcycle Range in Prototype Now With Indian Firm Bajaj

Triumph is now teasing the development of a series of smaller displacement motorcycles that the company plans to build with Indian manufacturing giants Bajaj.

As far back as early 2020, Triumph announced that it reached an agreement with Bajaj – one of the largest motorcycle firms in the world – to develop and build an all-new range of so-called ‘baby’ Triumphs that would fill in the 200 – 750cc engine displacement category.

While the plan called for the companies to roll out the first models in the collaboration in 2022, the project has been pushed back as a consequence of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Now that the pandemic crisis seems to be loosening its grip, both parties say they’re back on track to develop the bikes.

Triumph Head of Brand Management Miles Perkins says prototypes have already been created and plans are back in the offing.

“That’s going great guns, I have seen the development motorcycles – and the prototype for those – it’s all on track,” Perkins says. “We haven’t yet confirmed exactly what the bikes are and exactly when we will launch them but the news is forthcoming soon.”

And fear not, though Triumph hasn’t confirmed exactly which the partnership will create models, it has said the resulting bikes will be sold globally rather be sold only in Asian markets more conducive to sales of cheaper, small capacity motorcycles.

According to Perkins, Triumph found the ideal partner in Bajaj. He says the company’s large market share in India and experience working with KTM and Kawasaki were key to the deal.

“The relationship with Bajaj and conversations I have had with the team over there and the engineering team working with them are very like-minded and passionate individuals, and their focus and commitment are outstanding. They have similar leadership family principles and values,” Perkins says. “The working relationship is strong, the design development is completely Triumph, these are Triumphs and the partnership is building it and selling them around the world. What Bajaj brings is phenomenal in terms of the ability to develop quality in this volume, especially in the lower capacity range.”

Perkins also says the Triumph TE-1 EV prototype has been built and is ready for testing. It represents an electric sports bike model developed in partnership with Williams Advanced Engineering, and Perkins calls it “a blueprint for a future EV Triumph.”

Power for the TE-1 comes from an electric motor that delivers 174 horsepower at peak and 107 horses of continuous power. Triumph chose not to publish additional specifications, but Motorcycle News learned the bike weighs 485 pounds and offers up to 120 miles of range. Quick-charging technology zaps the battery pack with an 80% charge in about 20 minutes. Triumph stressed it aimed to give riders the performance of an internal-combustion-powered bike in an electric package, but what you see isn’t necessarily what will land in showrooms.

Triumph will begin testing the TE-1 prototype in the coming months, but it told Motorcycle News that it still needs to clear the cost hurdle before approving the production model. When it will do that is up in the air.

Triumph calls the TE-1 EV a prototype platform development and not an actual motorcycle available for sale, it’s a project which the company is using for “learning and developing the team’s experience but also developing the partnership of technology with several partners for a full-on electric Triumph platform that will follow in years to come.”

Oct 20
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Kawasaki Unveils Gas-Electric Hybrid Prototype Motorcycle

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by Dustin Wheelen from https://www.rideapart.com

Kawasaki Lifts Cover On Its Gas-Electric Hybrid Prototype Bike

A peek behind the curtain/fairings.

We’ve been following Kawasaki’s hybrid motorcycle development since the firm filed patents in July, 2019. By November, 2021, Team Green gave us a peek at its progress with a short video laying out the philosophy behind the project. Then, an April, 2021, patent revealed Kawi’s new 48V hybrid battery design. Now, Kawasaki has pulled back the curtain (and the fairings) on its latest hybrid build while committing to a 2025 gas-electric hybrid production models.

Due to the chassis, front headlight configuration, and exhaust system, the prototype looks like it’s based on the Ninja 400. Kawasaki hasn’t officially confirmed our suspicions, but leveraging the entry-level sportbike aligns with current hybrid technology limitations. In automobiles, it’s easier for manufacturers to pair electric and internal combustion powertrains. In motorcycles, however, space is a much more limited resource. As a result, the firm couples its existing small-capacity parallel twin with a compact electric power unit.

From the beginning, Kawasaki has developed its hybrid project with the idea that riders would utilize the powertrains in different environments. The internal combustion engine suits highway riding, while the electric motor works best in urban environments. On a twisty road, both would work in concert to deliver the best of both worlds. It seems like the small-bore Ninja-based prototype would satisfy those requirements while also providing enough room to accommodate the new apparatus.

Of course, with two powertrains, the transmission will have to play nice with both systems, and Kawi’s automated gearshift smooths that transition. The new feature consists of an automated clutch, servo-powered shifter, and push-buttons for the user to operate. With so many European cities introducing zero emissions zones lately (and only more to come), the hybrid technology may be the perfect happy-medium between holding on to the range and convenience of gas-powered motorcycles while adopting cleaner and more efficient running powertrains.

For some, 2025 may be a long time to wait, but it’s encouraging to see Kawasaki’s project progress at such a rapid rate. Hopefully, we can say the same for the gas-electric hybrid’s acceleration when it hits the market in a few years.

Kawasaki Ninja 400 Based Hybrid Electric Motorcycle Prototype Unveiled

by Arun Prakash from https://www.rushlane.com

Kawasaki is working on a wide range of fully electric and hybrid motorcycles for the next few years

Kawasaki has made some major announcements recently which reveals the intentions of the Japanese superbike manufacturer for the future. The bikemaker has revealed that by 2035, all its models would run on electrified powertrains- either fully electric or hybrid electric vehicles, in major international markets.

In regard to this idea, the company is planning to launch ten new fully electric and hybrid motorcycles by 2025. The first of them was recently showcased at a presentation meeting in Japan. The prototype revealed is slated to be the first hybrid electric motorcycle from Kawasaki.

However, this isn’t the first motorcycle with an electric powertrain to be unveiled by the Japanese brand. Earlier in 2019, Kawasaki had revealed the electric Ninja 300 Concept, called EV Endeavor. Later the same year, the company filed patents for a hybrid motorcycle, images of which floated on the internet. The recent prototype unveiled is expected to be based on the same patents.

Kawasaki Ninja 400 Hybrid Prototype – Details
Going by the images, Kawasaki appears to have used Ninja 400 as the base for the exposed prototype of the hybrid bike. It features a parallel-twin engine which is bolted onto a new tubular steel frame with a large electric motor mounted above the transmission. The electric motor derives its energy from a small 48V battery pack located under the seat.

As per Kawasaki, the hybrid powertrain is equipped with a regenerative feature that tops up the battery when low on charge. Another interesting aspect of this hybrid motorcycle is that within city limits, the bike would completely run on battery and electric motor, cutting out power from the combustion engine. This mode will be useful when some cities introduce zero emissions zones in the future.

Automated Transmission
The bikemaker has equipped the prototype with GPS technology that automatically switches to electric power as soon as the bike enters city limits. Outside the city limits, the motorcycle will draw energy from both the combustion engine and electric motor in order to boost its performance. The entire system is paired with an automated transmission system with buttons for gear shifts.

The setup comprises an automated clutch and a servo-operated shifter that enables gear shifts through push button changes. Other details revealed from the images include a pair of telescopic front forks and rear mono-shock supporting the tubular steel frame. Stopping power is provided by single disc brakes on both wheels while being linked to dual-channel ABS.

Although no exact timeline for its launch has been confirmed, we won’t be surprised if this motorcycle reaches production within a span of a year.

May 19
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NAWARacer Hybrid Battery Electric Motorcycle Prototype

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by Daniel Patrascu from https://www.autoevolution.com

At the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) back in 2020, battery maker NAWA Technologies presented what it called back then the Racer. It was a motorcycle concept designed to showcase the company’s newest idea for a battery. More than a year has passed since then, and now we’re finally getting word of a fully rideable dynamic prototype being in the works.

That means that yes, we will not be getting a production run of the two-wheeler, at least not for now. Yet NAWA is determined to show its technological innovation has its merits, and if it succeeds, we might get to see it integrated into other electric motorcycles.

But what does the company do differently? Well, it doesn’t use a standalone lithium-ion battery but somehow integrates it with ultracapacitors. By doing so, the company promises increases in energy efficiency and battery lifetime while reducing charging times.

We’re not told in numbers what exactly that means, but the French do say the NAWACap, as it calls the tech, should provide ten times more power and five times more energy than existing ultracapacitors. The size of the battery is reduced by half, while range doubles, we’re told, although we have no idea compared to what.

The bike NAWA will be making together with AKKA Technologies, Pronergy, FAAR, and YSY Group will have an aluminum body that will integrate the battery into the chassis, thus removing the frame out of the equation. It will move along thanks to an in-wheel motor.

NAWA says the demonstrator should be ready to roll in a few months. If successful, the tech (the world’s first hybrid battery system, as the company describes it) might be adopted by others, especially considering how it has been designed to be scalable. What’s more interesting is that it could probably be adapted for cars as well, not only electric motorcycles.

Apr 07
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Honda Plans To Unveil New 3D Printed Prototyping Project In 2021

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by Janaki Jitchotvisut from https://www.rideapart.com

For decades, OEMs like Honda have used clay modeling extensively in the process of designing their new bikes. Take the CBR1000RR-R, which won Honda’s first-ever Red Dot design award for a motorcycle in 2020. While clay modeling wasn’t the only part of the design process, it was an important part of how Honda brought that design to life.

It’s 2021 now, though, and technology is shifting and changing with the times. That change is nowhere more evident than the announcement that Honda R&D Europe has teamed up with Italian 3D printing company WASP (nothing to do with Vespa). The goal of the partnership is to create a brand-new 3D-printed prototyping process that is finished by hand. That way, they say, you get the best of both worlds.

Now, we can’t show you any of these just yet, because Honda and WASP haven’t unveiled them as of April, 2021. They plan to do so “in the coming months,” however, and we definitely look forward to seeing what they’ve created together.

While clay models have the advantages of being infinitely customizable in the hands of skilled craftsmen, they take a lot of time to get just right. One advantage of integrating 3D printing into the design process is, at least in theory, the time Honda will save. Naturally, how well it works remains to be seen.

WASP is no stranger to using its 3D printing processes in the motorcycle world. Back in 2019, the company was already making 3D printed carbon fiber parts on demand for bikes in the Italian Speed (CIV) motorcycle racing championship.

If you’ll recall, in October, 2020, BMW’s WSBK team made news when it started bringing a 3D printer to races to print up new parts trackside. WASP was already hard at work in the CIV championship doing the same thing a year earlier. Now, in 2021, Honda is bringing 3D printing into its own prototyping process.

On a much smaller scale, customizers have been making use of 3D printing to fabricate the parts they can see in their mind’s eye, as well. As 3D printing technology advances, in what other ways will we see it integrated into the motorcycle world? It’s going to be interesting to watch the technology evolve.

Mar 24
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Design and styling of the Triumph Project TE-1 electric mototrcycle

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from https://www.financialexpress.com

Triumph Project TE-1 electric motorcycle design sketches out! Powertrain prototype unveiled

The design and styling of the Triumph Project TE-1 appear heavily inspired by the 2021 Speed Triple 1200 RS, however, it will not simply be the Speed Triple with an electric powertrain, but an all-new bike built from scratch.

Having been announced back in 2019, Project TE-1 is now beginning to take steps towards completion with the official revealing of the design sketches of Triumph’s upcoming electric motorcycle and also the prototype of its powertrain and battery. Delivering on the objectives announced at the start of the TE-1 project in May 2019, focused on developing specialist electric motorcycle technology and integrated solutions, the collaboration between Triumph Motorcycles, Williams Advanced Engineering, Integral Powertrain Ltd, and WMG at the University of Warwick funded by the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles, today took the wraps off its achievements so far.

Triumph has announced the completion of Phase 2 with the reveal of the battery and powertrain prototype, initial performance results and the first design concept drawings for the Project TE-1. The prototype of the motorcycle will be unveiled sometime by the end of this year.

The design and styling of the TE-1 appear heavily inspired by the 2021 Speed Triple 1200 RS with a similar headlamp, suspension and single-sided swingarm. However, the Project TE-1 will not simply be the Speed Triple frame bolted with an electric powertrain, it is being built from the ground up.

The British manufacturer states that test results show significant innovation in mass, battery technology, and powertrain performance that exceeds the target set by the UK Automotive Council for 2025.

Project TE-1 is a collaboration between four major UK industry and academic leaders – Triumph Motorcycles, Williams Advanced Engineering, Integral Powertrain Ltd’s e-Drive Division, and WMG at the University of Warwick. Project TE-1 is funded by the UK Government’s Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV).

“This important project will provide one of the foundations for our future electric motorcycle strategy, which is ultimately focussed on delivering what riders want from their Triumph; the perfect balance of performance, handling and real world usability, with genuine Triumph character,” Nick Bloor, Triumph CEO, said.

Williams Advanced Engineering will provide lightweight battery design and integration capability, using its test and development facilities to deliver an innovative battery management system combined with a vehicle control unit.

Integral Powertrain’s e-Drive division will lead the development of bespoke power-dense electric motors and a silicon carbide inverter, integrating both into a singular motor housing.

WMG at the University of Warwick will provide electrification expertise, and the vision to drive innovation from R&D to commercial impact. Innovate UK will support the partners and administer funds.

The Triumph TE-1 project’s innovative AC motor produces 180 hp and weights only 10 kg

by Nithyanandh Karuppaswamy from https://www.rushlane.com

Back in May 2019, Triumph Motorcycles announced that it is working on an electric sportsbike project called TE-1 as a part of a joint research project funded by the Office For Zero Emission Vehicles, Government of the UK. Fast forward to the present day, phase 2 of the 4-phase project has reached completion, and the British marque has unveiled the electric powertrain prototype in addition to design sketches of the Triumph TE-1 electric motorcycle.

Triumph TE-1 – An Overview
The Triumph TE-1 project is being developed in collaboration with Williams Advanced Engineering, Integral Powertrain Ltd, and WMG of University of Warwick. The project is is a part of Innovate UK program run by the government, has already exceeded the targets set by the UK Automotive Council for 2025.

The phase 2 involves developing and testing the critical components of the motorcycle such as the battery, motor and vehicle control units. The end of phase 3 will involve realizing a full functional prototype of the motorcycle which will be used in phase 4 for final validation process.

Puny Yet Powerful AC Motor
While detailed specifications of the powertrain are still under wraps, we know that the new innovative AC motor developed by Integral Powertrain’s e-Division weights only 10 kg and produces a staggering 180 hp (130 kW), making it one of the best units in the motorcycle business in terms of power density. The company has worked on integrating the motor and inverter into a single unit so as to improve packaging and reduce mass.

Compact Battery Pack
Williams Advanced Engineering spearheaded the development of the Triumph TE-1 project’s battery module, battery management system and vehicle control unit. The system is heavily optimized for mass, performance, ideal location of center of gravity to enable sharp handling, and ease of recharging. The performance specifications of the battery is still under wraps but Williams says that the unit offers the best-in-class power and energy density, and has been successfully validated on test bench.

Advanced Modelling and Simulation
WMG at the University of Warwick brings its academic might to this joint research and development program. The university team has been working on model-based engineering techniques to aid the whole development process.

During phase 1 various models simulating the behaviors of motor, battery, control systems, etc., were developed to aid in selection and sizing of right kind of critical systems. The fidelity of the models of each sub-systems were improved during the second phase to aid the partners in optimizing the performance of the high-performance pure electric powertrain. The university also realized a Hardware-in-loop (HIL) test rig to validate the motorcycle’s various control units.

Triumph’s Contribution
Triumph Motorcycles focuses on developing a new chassis and rear sub-frame to underpin the modern electric motorcycle in addition to coming up with a fitting design. The company also developed the fully digital colour instrument console and software for the vehicle control unit by integrating functional safety measures that is required for the final version to be homologated for road use.

The styling is an evolution of the brand’s street fighter design with the quintessential two-piece headlamp design. The Triumph TE-1 project is expected to be completed sometime in 2023. More details are expected to be released as the joint research project reaches the end of phase 3.

Mar 24
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Triumph Electric Motorcycle Prototype Project

By General Posts

from https://motorcycles.einnews.com

PROJECT TRIUMPH TE-1 CREATING UK ELECTRIC MOTORCYCLE CAPABILITY
TRIUMPH MOTORCYCLES ANNOUNCES PHASE 2 – POWERTRAIN PROTOTYPE

Atlanta Georgia, USA, March 24, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Triumph Motorcycles reveals the innovative advanced electric powertrain and battery and the first styling sketches for the final Project TE-1 Prototype, of this landmark four-phase collaboration in British design and engineering as Phast 2 reaches a successful conclusion.

Delivering on the objectives announced at the start of the TE-1 project in May 2019, focused on developing specialized electric motorcycle technology and innovative integrated solutions, this unique collaboration between Triumph Motorcycles, Williams Advanced Engineering, Integral Powertrain Ltd, and WMG at the University of Warwick funded by the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles, has already achieved significant results.

Including innovation in battery and powertrain design, initial test performance results far exceed the current benchmarks and industry targets. Developments in performance, efficiency, and range is enabling Project TE-1 to fully deliver the partnership’s objectives to enhance the credibility and profile of British industry providing substantial input into the future electric motorcycle strategy from Triumph.

  • Announcing the completion of Phase 2 – The reveal of the battery and powertrain prototype, initial high level performance results, and the first design concept drawings for the Project TE-1 Prototype motorcycle that will be created at the end of the next phase.
  • Key project achievements to date – Test results show significant innovation in mass, battery technology, and powertrain performance that exceeds the target set by the UK Automotive Council for 2025, meeting the project’s ambitious objectives to deliver genuine innovation for a new standard in fully usable electric motorcycle performance.
  • Project TE-1 is a unique collaboration between four major UK industry and academic leaders       – Triumph Motorcycles, Williams Advanced Engineering, Integral Powertrain Ltd.’s
    e-Drive Division, and WMG at the University of Warwick
  • The objective of this two-year project is focused on developing electric motorcycle capabilities – It will provide an input into Triumph’s future electric motorcycle offer, drive innovation, capability and new intellectual property, and enhance the credibility and profile of British industry and design.
  • Project TE-1 is funded by the UK Government’s Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV), and delivered through Innovate UK

“The completion of Phase 2, and the promising results achieved to date, provide an exciting glimpse of the potential electric future and showcase the talent and innovation of this unique British collaboration. Without doubt the outcome of this project will play a significant part in our future efforts to meet our customer’s ambition and desire to reduce their environmental impact and for more sustainable transportation.” said Nick Bloor, Triumph CEO. “This important project will provide one of the foundations for our future electric motorcycle strategy, which is ultimately focused on delivering what riders want from their Triumph; the perfect balance of performance, handling, and real-world usability, with genuine Triumph character.”

PROJECT TE-1 – PHASE 2 OUTCOMES

Battery and powertrain prototype

Williams Advanced Engineering (WAE)

Based on the agreed specification, we identified appropriate cell technology and battery architecture to deliver the performance objectives. Using this as a framework, we then optimized the battery module layout to balance mass and positioning within the prototype chassis, taking into consideration center of gravity, space, and relationship with the powertrain and charging approach.

In addition to the module layout, we have also developed a new and unique vehicle control unit which is integrated into the battery pack to minimize weight and packaging. In parallel, WAE has also created innovative battery management software to ensure power is delivered in relationship to battery performance.

The outcome of Phase 2 for WAE includes a fully bench-tested battery with performance results that exceeds anything else on the market in terms of Power and Energy Density.

“We are delighted to be working on this project, working to deliver next-generation battery technology and control systems. Within the current landscape, most electric motorcycle technology arguably delivers compromised performance at low levels of battery charge. By using a lightweight, compact solution, we have been able to give the rider all of the performance all of the time (regardless of battery charge), and a class leading range. We have focused on pushing the boundaries to reduce mass and optimize frame position to benefit handling. We have also pushed the limits of battery performance, balancing the design for acceleration and range, with simulations modelled on track-based riding. In other words, as aggressive as possible,” said Dyrr Ardash, Senior Commercial Manager, Williams Advanced Engineering. “The energy density of this new battery will be a significant step forward from existing technology giving the rider more power, for longer. WAE has also designed and developed an electronic control unit from the ground-up, combining the battery management system with the bike control functions in one package. This is a first for this market, benefiting packaging and integration while optimizing performance and range.”

Integral Powertrain Ltd.’s e-Drive Division

Our experience in cutting edge motor and inverter design and manufacture has helped us to push this technology on to the next level for the TE-1 project. In Phase 1 we worked to integrate the normally separate motor and inverter into one single, compact package. Integration reduces the mass and volume of the drivetrain by reducing additional boxes on the vehicle, mounting features, coolant pipework, and heavy high voltage connections.

The innovative integration concept is also a fully scalable one, whereby the number of power stages can increase for larger diameter, higher torque motors for example. Combined with our state-of-the-art motor technology, we have seen very exciting results already, with the motor achieving a power density twice that of the target set by the UK Automotive Council for 2025.

We have also implemented advanced silicon carbide switch technology in the inverter. This reduces losses in the inverter and results in greater drivetrain efficiency, power delivery, and range. At the end of Phase 2, we are proud to have built a fully operational, new prototype motor that has been bench tested and is delivering on all aspects of performance.

“One of the most influential factors in how well a motorcycle handles and performs is mass, so at Integral Powertrain we have focused heavily on making a step change in motor and inverter design, removing heavy high voltage cables for example. This delivers a product that is significantly more compact and lighter than anything currently available on the market. The motor produces almost 180 horsepower (130kW), but weighs only 22 pounds (10 kg), much lighter than existing technology and clearly a small fraction of the mass of traditional internal combustion engines.” said Andrew Cross, Chief Technical Officer at Integral Powertrain Ltd. “The silicon carbide switch technology in our new scalable integrated inverter will help set new standards in terms of electric motorcycle efficiency; application of this technology means a lighter weight overall with significantly more performance and range. In parallel, we have a very strong focus on design for manufacture and assembly activity, so that all this high motor and inverter performance can be offered cost-effectively. Ultimately, this is really going to be an industry-leading powertrain that will help define the future of electric mobility. With the TE-1 project we are proud to be part of this landmark project for British industry.”

WMG, at the University of Warwick

At WMG we have been working closely with all the TE-1 partners during Phase 1 and 2 to develop representative models to simulate the systems of the bike including battery, motor, and vehicle control. Initially this allowed us to validate the specification against the intended component selection by assessing performance criteria such as range and top speed with initial models. This has enabled Triumph to carry out software development at an early stage prior to hardware being built with thorough testing programs to ensure that real-life testing can deliver on refinement. Most recently we have been conducting powertrain rig testing using the prototype IPT powertrain to ensure our simulations are accurate and to confirm that the motor functions within the system as intended. We have also been providing guidance to Triumph relating to future legislation, charging infrastructure and recycling strategies that will need to be implemented across future electric motorcycle platforms.

“Our creation of initial computer-based simulation models at the start of Phase 1 has been instrumental in ensuring that the component selection was appropriate to achieve the performance targets defined by the partners for the TE-1 Prototype. We have continued with this work across Phase 2 of the project, refining the models to a much more complex level to allow us and the partners to imitate further components on the bike such as braking, throttle, lighting and other systems and mimic real-world riding to provide development opportunities before components were fully designed. Additionally, we have created a physical rig wired with all the control units, to implement a design validation test program to ensure the function of each section was within the allowable range.” said Truong Quang Dinh, Assistant Professor of Energy Management and Control Systems at WMG, University of Warwick.

Triumph Motorcycles

Throughout Phase 2 Triumph have developed an all-new advanced vehicle control software which incorporates all the electrical systems to ensure intuitive throttle response, regen braking, traction control and all of the dimensions that a customer would expect from a high-performance Triumph motorcycle. Additionally, we have integrated leading functional safety strategies into this software, plus supported WMG in rig testing and have also fully developed the new prototype instrument display. Alongside this electrical and control system work, we have designed a brand-new prototype chassis including main frame and rear frame which have been optimized alongside the battery and motor packages which will be further evolved in Phase 3 into the TE-1 Prototype which will be used as a mule test platform in Phase 4. During this chassis development we have taken into account both the transmission design and the final styling of the TE-1 Prototype, the drawings of which we are pleased to reveal for the first time today.

Steve Sargent, Triumph’s Chief Product Officer said “The starting point for us in the TE-1 project was to gather important customer feedback about what riders really want from their motorcycles and understand how an electric motorcycle can provide the experience that riders desire. This includes considering the type of riding, range, feel and nature of power and torque delivery together with the ergonomics and bike controls. Taking all this feedback into consideration we began the chassis design, focusing on bringing everything together on the TE-1 Prototype in a way that provides a riding experience that is exciting and new, but ultimately familiar. We have begun to define the powertrain and battery interaction through the use of software refinement to deliver an exhilarating power delivery and throttle response, which provides great control and feels intuitive to the rider. Overall, with the styling we wanted to create something that is fresh and exciting but a natural evolution of the Triumph brand. Something desirable in its own right, with distinctive Triumph DNA and definitely not something that is different just for the sake of being different. Pulling all of this together with the partners we are thrilled to see the progress of such an exciting demonstration vehicle which incorporates the cutting-edge technology needed to guide the strategy for the future roadmap of electric motorcycles from Triumph. The team are proud to be leading such an innovative, strong and dynamic project with a fantastic group of partners which ultimately should set British engineering and design rightly at the forefront of future 2-wheel design.”

PROJECT TE-1 OVERVIEW

Project TE-1 collaboration – Triumph Motorcycles, industry experts, academic leaders, and UK Government 

Project Triumph TE-1 is a ground-breaking collaboration between Triumph Motorcycles and the UK’s electrification experts, each of whom is focused on creating innovations in their own areas:

  • Triumph Motorcycles is leading the project, providing advanced motorcycle chassis design and engineering expertise, manufacturing excellence and pioneering functional safety systems, as well as defining electric drivetrain power delivery characteristics.
  • Williams Advanced Engineering is providing industry-leading lightweight battery design and integration capability, using its test and development facilities to deliver an innovative battery management system combined with vehicle control unit.
  • Integral Powertrain Ltd.’s e-Drive Division is leading the development of bespoke power-dense electric motors and a silicon carbide inverter, integrating both into a singular motor housing.
  • WMG, at the University of Warwick is providing electrification expertise, and the critical vision to drive innovation from R&D to commercial impact, through modelling and simulation based on future market needs.
  • The Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) is a team working across government to support the transition to zero emission vehicles, as well as funding to support chargepoint infrastructure across the UK. This will contribute to economic growth and will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution on UK roads. OZEV is part of the Department for Transport and the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy.
  • Innovate UK is the government’s research and innovation agency that supports business led R&D funding and UK business growth.

A two-year project focused on developing technical innovation and advanced electric motorcycle capabilities

The project is organized into four main phases, with one of its key aims being increased systems integration. By developing individual components of automotive-based electric drivetrains and optimizing them into innovative combined units, the project aims to deliver sophisticated electric motorcycle systems which reduce mass, complexity, and package requirements.

Triumph Motorcycles is working alongside the partner organizations to accelerate joint expertise in the packaging and safety of batteries, optimum electric motor sizing and packaging, the integration of braking systems including regenerative braking, and advanced safety systems. The innovation and capabilities developed in these areas will input into Triumph’s future electric motorcycle strategy.

The Project Triumph TE-1 partnership, with the support of the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles and Innovate UK, is focused on facilitating the creation of:

  • Electric motorcycle capability that meets the needs of customers seeking lower environmental impact transportation, delivering against the UK’s focus on reducing emissions
  • Strong, commercially viable, and sustainable partnerships with UK industry manufacturers
    and supply chains
  • Expertise and capability within the UK workforce, creating jobs and a talent base that both ensures sustainable employment and drives the UK’s reputation and influence on the world stage.

Dr Francesca Iudicello CEng MIMechE – Program Manager – Automotive Zero Emission Vehicles – Innovate UK

“Innovate UK has worked in close partnership with the Office of Zero Emission Vehicles to deliver the integrated delivery program since 2013. This provides funding to ground-breaking innovation in the automotive sectors for zero emission vehicle technologies from proof of concept to vehicle demonstration.

The TE-1 project is a part of this program under the IDP15 competition and is aligned with the road to zero policy and marks an important milestone towards zero emission vehicles and the race to net zero.

We are proud to have delivered the funding for this project which is a pioneering project for the zero-emission vehicle motorcycle manufacturing in the UK as it has successfully developed, thanks to a very talented group of innovators, the very first Triumph electric motorcycle in a very quick development time and prepared the groundwork for the future of electric motorcycles.”

Jon Bray – Research & Development (R&D) Lead – Office for Zero Emission Vehicles

“Investment in Research and Development is key to our mission of putting the UK at the forefront of the design, manufacture, and use of zero emission vehicles. By supporting these technologies, we are helping to deliver our road transport decarbonization goals, while anchoring economic activity across the UK, which will support the green recovery in the wake of the pandemic.

This is why the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles continues to design and fund a series of R&D competitions, which support UK innovation in developing zero emission vehicle and charging infrastructure technologies.

Triumph’s TE-1 project is part of our diverse R&D portfolio of ambitious electrification projects, which are addressing challenges in line with our accelerated phase-out ambitions of petrol and diesel cars and vans and electric vehicle commitments in the Prime Minister’s Ten Point Plan.

We are excited to see that our funding is supporting Triumph Motorcycles in driving forward innovation and capability in the electric motorcycle space, while fostering collaboration between several pioneering UK companies”.