KTM 2008


Riding Fun and Environmental Sustainability

In October 2008 the Austrian motorcycle specialist KTM launched the prototype of a zero emission motorcycle with electromotor, the result of a cooperative research project with the engineering experts from arsenal research.

"... The concept of the zero emission motorcycle combines the well known KTM competence with new and highly interesting motor technology. With an emission free motorcycle we see a big opportunity to make Enduro sport available to a broader and completely new target group in the medium and long term by giving them access to a completely new trend sport. With a motorcycle like the KTM Zero Emission Motorcycle there can be attractive riding possibilities in the future, also in densely populated areas, without coming into conflict with existing restrictions. ..."
DI Harald Plöckinger, Board Member of KTM Power Sports AG

The zero emission motorcycle is light, sporty and powerful, developed from a racing philosophy, emission free and practically noise free!

KTM's intention: mobility, environment and energy
The foundation stone of the development of the first KTM emission-free motorcycle is KTM’s commitment to offroad motorcycle sports and the intention to further consolidate this very important pillar of the company’s activities. The equally important task of the KTM Development Centre is to find solutions that align the core business of KTM to the worldwide situation regarding the topics “mobility”, “environment” and “energy”.

The motto of arsenal research: 'Simulate Future Drives. Drive Future Innovation."
The technical researchers at arsenal research have an interdisciplinary approach - from energy storage to the electro motor and power electronics including drive system. The development and interpretation of the prototype took place on a computer and had the aim of realizing a highly efficient, performance-oriented, very compact electromotor that was as light as possible. In addition the entire simulation of the motorcycle with its complete operational behaviour, relevant mechanical, electrical and thermal components was evaluated, resulting in the development of an optimal concept. The choice of a suitable battery technology, the design of the battery system including the battery management, the development of a safety and drive concept as well as the design of an optimal electromotor were all necessary for the development of the engine. This was all carried out bearing in mind the big challenges when it came to performance, range, packaging, weight and cost.

Check out details on www.ktm.com.


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About arsenal research

Arsenal research stands for the competence fields of mobility and energy. The interdisciplinary development group for electronic engine technology includes electro technicians, experts for drive technology, engineering, physics and software engineering. The spectrum ranges from water pumps or air conditioners right up to the development of entire drive systems for electric vehicles like scooters, motorcycles, all terrain vehicles, passenger vehicles and commercial vehicles.

"The development of innovative vehicles and drive concepts is a booming market in which the big manufactures are increasingly involved. We are convinced that arsenal research will continue its role as a strong partner to the automobile industry also in the future and in doing so will lay the foundations stones for tomorrow’s vehicle concepts – in keeping with our motto 'Simulate future drives. Drive future innovation.'" arsenal research www.arsenal.ac.at.

fig.: KTM prototype of a zero emission motorcycle. KTM-Sportmotorcycle AG