White Motorcycle Concepts (WMC) and Zero Motorcycles have introduced the WMC Zero SRS Intelligent Aero Prototype (WMCSRS), a new electric sports motorcycle featuring WMC’s patented aerodynamic duct technology. The prototype, which was unveiled at the Motorcycle Live event in Birmingham, UK, aims to improve range efficiency by reducing aerodynamic drag by 10%.
The WMCSRS is based on Zero Motorcycles’ SR/S model and integrates a bifurcated aerodynamic duct designed to channel air from behind the front wheel to above the rear wheel. This design is intended to minimize drag, improving the bike’s efficiency and performance at highway speeds. The prototype also incorporates a custom front fender and fork shroud package to optimize airflow around the duct.
Robert White, Founder and CEO of WMC, commented, “The whole industry is currently facing a huge technical/commercial challenge to produce an electric motorcycle with performance close to its petrol equivalent. This problem space will not be solved by battery technology alone; it requires a blend of innovations to bridge the gap now and provide efficiency benefits in the future.”
The development of the WMCSRS involved using computer fluid dynamics simulations and aero rakes for baseline testing, common techniques used in motorsport to analyze airflow. The design aims to provide improvements in range efficiency by reducing the need for larger batteries and lowering overall charging times and costs. Additionally, the aerodynamic features are intended to support higher top speeds and improved acceleration while maintaining energy efficiency at high speeds.
Abe Askenazi, CTO of Zero Motorcycles, added, “We are committed to innovation and, while battery development is advancing rapidly, we believe a combination of technologies is the key to developing the electric motorcycles of the future. This proof of concept has given us valuable insights into the potential benefits of integrating an aerodynamic duct into electric motorcycles.”
The WMCSRS prototype underscores the growing focus on aerodynamics in the electric vehicle sector as manufacturers explore ways to improve efficiency and extend range. As battery technology continues to advance, aerodynamic enhancements such as these could become an integral part of future electric motorcycle designs, helping to optimize performance and reduce reliance on larger batteries.
