Author: JD van ZYL

An electric motorcycle capable of trotting more than 150km on a single charge has long been on the cards but Zero is the first to actually deliver on the promise.

The company’s 2012 model range has seen a number of improvements, including much edgier styling, but most impressive is the specifications of the Zero S. According to its maker, this is the first mass-produced battery two-wheeler capable of exceeding 150km on a single charge.

'GAME-CHANGING'

To be exact the Zero S can now manage a truly impressive 183km on one charge. The increase in range is thanks to a new power train as well as a new battery pack which, the company claims, will last as long as the motorcycle itself, promising a 500 000km battery life.

“The 2012 model line is truly game-changing,” said Scott Harden, vice-president of the company. “It marks the first time in history that riders can actually own an electric motorcycle capable of exceeding 100 miles [161km] of range on a single charge.

“Every model in the line-up goes faster, further and is more fun than before.”

Harden goes on to stress that these are not just concepts but production-ready models which will be available for delivery early in 2012.

Despite its impressive increase in range the Zero models are by no means perfect and will still only appeal to a small number of dedicated riders who don’t need the bike for more than a short commute.

An even bigger drawback, however, is the cost.

The new, improved-range battery is optional and demands a significant premium over the standard battery pack - to the tune of R21 000. That hike increases the US-price of the relatively affordable S model from R94 000 to a significantly pricier R115 000.

While the company’s improvements are certainly commendable, it will clearly take another while before such technology is accessible to more than just a handful of privileged riders.