Electric motorcycles have been hyped as the future of two-wheeled transportation, offering speed, efficiency, and sustainability.
But for every roaring success, there are brands that hit a bump and never recovered. Here are eight EV motorcycle brands that burned bright but fizzled out, and the lessons they leave behind.
Energica
Energica was once a frontrunner in the electric motorcycle race. Known for high-performance bikes like the Ego and the Eva, it catered to speed lovers and eco-conscious riders alike. Its bikes could hit top speeds of 150 mph and boasted quick-charging technology.
Notable achievements include becoming the sole manufacturer for the FIM MotoE World Cup and introducing the first electric motorcycle with DC fast charging. The company launched four technological platforms and expanded globally. Despite its success, Energica entered judicial liquidation in 2024, though the exact reasons are not specified.
Arc Motorcycles
Arc Motorcycles was the maker of the futuristic Vector, a bike that looked like it came straight out of a sci-fi movie. With cutting-edge features like a haptic jacket that synced with the bike, it seemed like the company was years ahead of its time.
However, innovation came with a hefty price tag. The Vector retailed for around $120,000, putting it out of reach for most riders. After struggling to secure funding, Arc finally closed its doors in 2024, leaving behind dreams of what could have been.
FUELL
Founded by legendary motorcycle designer Erik Buell, FUELL aimed to revolutionize urban mobility. Its Fllow electric motorcycle and Fluid electric bicycle blended sleek design with impressive range, targeting commuters in major cities.
But while the concept was solid, FUELL failed to generate enough buzz to sustain sales. By 2024, the company quietly exited the market, proving that even big names can’t guarantee success in the EV space.
Mission Motorcycles
Mission Motorcycles wowed the world with the Mission RS, an electric superbike that broke records with its 150 mph top speed and stunning design. Critics praised it as a game-changer in the industry, and enthusiasts eagerly awaited more.
Unfortunately, Mission Motorcycles went bankrupt before delivering most of its pre-orders. Legal disputes and mismanagement plagued the company, making it one of the biggest missed opportunities in EV history.
Brammo
Brammo was one of the first brands to make electric motorcycles cool, with its Empulse model offering a mix of performance and range. It gained traction with partnerships like the one with Polaris, a major powersports company.
However, Brammo couldn’t keep up with better-funded competitors. Its assets were eventually sold to Polaris, which shifted its focus to off-road electric vehicles, leaving Brammo’s legacy as a short-lived chapter in EV history.
Alta Motors
Alta Motors was once hailed as the Tesla of dirt bikes. Its electric motocross bikes were powerful, lightweight, and environmentally friendly, earning rave reviews from off-road enthusiasts.
Despite its success with niche riders, Alta couldn’t secure enough funding to expand its operations. The company folded in 2018, leaving a gap in the electric dirt bike market that has yet to be filled.
Cake
Cake stood out with its minimalist, Swedish design and daily commute focus. Its bikes, like the Makka, were designed to be lightweight and eco-friendly, making them perfect for commuters who wanted to tread lightly on the streets.
Unfortunately, Cake’s premium pricing and limited market appeal led to financial difficulties. The brand couldn’t scale to meet global demand, leading to its quiet demise. It later had its assets acquired by another company with plans to revive a two-wheeled electric vehicle.
Sondors
Sondors made headlines with its ambitious plans for the Metacycle, an affordable, sleek electric motorcycle priced at just $5,000. The bike promised a solid range of 80 miles, making it an attractive option for urban riders.
Despite its buzz, production delays and logistical challenges plagued Sondors. By 2024, the company ceased operations, leaving many would-be buyers disappointed.
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