Mahle Powertrain and White Motorcycle Concepts (WMC) are developing a fully electric three-wheeled motorbike for police, emergency first responders and last-mile delivery fleets.
Funded by the Niche Vehicle Network, supported by the Department of Transport and Innovate UK, the feasibility stage of the project is scheduled for completion in March 2023.
A follow-up project to develop the prototype units is planned that is eventually expected to lead to small series production.
The project will adapt the design of the Yamaha Tricity 300 and replace its combustion engine with a fully electric powertrain with fast-charging capability and a targeted 100 mile operating range.
This development will enable emergency services to comply with forthcoming legislation and achieve their net-zero ambitions without sacrificing service levels.
By analysing real-world data in a comprehensively modelled virtual environment, Mahle Powertrain will investigate a number of components such as traction motors and charger systems to arrive at the best possible configuration.
This work will also consider a variety of battery topologies – from traditional slow-charging and low-cost options through to novel ultra-fast technologies – and analyse how best to package these components within the motorcycle.
Nick Adderley, Northamptonshire Police Chief Constable and UK Police lead for Motorcycles, said, “The hybrid three-wheeled bikes we now have in our fleet are providing an alternative, practical and very visible way for our neighbourhood police officers to get out and about in their communities.
“We need to continue to ensure we are prepared for the future with a sustainable fleet that not only meets the green agenda but also enables us to deliver the policing service our communities need and want.”
