Erik Buell that has a number of ventures in the motorcycle space, is set to start a new venture in order to develop electric bikes. The new company that is christened as VanguardSpark is a collaboration of three partners, the Buell, F-X Terry- head of New York-headquartered Vanguard Motorcycles and Frederic Vasseur, founder of Spark Racing Technology. The Spark Racing is renowned for building Formula-E racing cars.
As learnt from the sources, the company will start its journey with two new products- the Speedbike and the Commuter. The former one is a pedal-assisted electric bike that will replace mopeds. Whereas, the commuter is an electric motorcycle that will act as the replacement for 125-150cc commuter motorcycles. As expected, it can cover up more than the 150km distance in a single charge.
The details for the products are unclear as only design sketches are rolled out, which reveals the carbon fibre monocoque shell keeps the battery pack that powers the hub-mounted electric motor to revolve the rear wheel. Besides, the company has also filed patents for four models that are expected to get into prototype form in coming months.
Erik Buell, besides this new VanguardSpark venture, has number of business in the motorcycling world. The Buell Motorcycle company that is an association with Harley-Davidson produces bikes with HD engines. Also, the legendary American bikemaker has the majority of shares. Furthermore, there was Erik Buell Racing that has been closed last year. For your reminisce, the similar EBR was in alliance with Hero MotoCorp acquiring 49.2 per cent stake in 2013 that later on shut down and all assets liquidated.
