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White Motorcycle Concepts (WMC) and Zero Motorcycles have unveiled the world’s first electric sports motorcycle featuring WMC’s patented aerodynamic duct technology. Named the WMC Zero SRS Intelligent Aero Prototype (WMCSRS), this cutting-edge bike aims to significantly improve range efficiency by reducing aerodynamic drag by 10%. The prototype was presented at Motorcycle Live in Birmingham, UK.
Key Highlights:
- WMC and Zero Motorcycles collaborated to create the world’s first electric sports motorcycle with an integrated aerodynamic duct.
- The concept bike, called WMCSRS, is based on the Zero SR/S and incorporates a bifurcated aerodynamic duct.
- This duct technology provides a 10% reduction in aerodynamic drag, improving efficiency.
- The prototype was debuted at Motorcycle Live in Birmingham, UK, on November 16-24, 2024.
WMC’s patented duct runs through the center of the re-engineered Zero SR/S, channeling air from behind the front wheel to exit above the rear wheel. To optimize airflow, WMC also designed an aerodynamic front fender and fork shroud package. The project originated from a shared vision at the Italian Motorcycle Show (EICMA) 2023, focusing on enhancing range performance for electric motorcycles.
The development process followed a rigorous schedule, utilizing advanced tools like computer fluid dynamics simulations and aero rakes commonly seen in high-level motorsport. The result is a highly efficient prototype designed for real-world testing, with the intent to prove that innovations in aerodynamics can close the performance gap between electric and petrol motorcycles.
Robert White, Founder & CEO of WMC, explained: “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 WMC Zero SRS Intelligent Aero Prototype leverages a dual-channel design, with a vertical bifurcated duct to minimize drag. F1-style aero rakes were used during the baseline testing phase to study airflow, and bespoke front fenders were developed to improve the duct’s performance. This duct concept was refined through WMC’s land-speed record attempts and now offers significant aerodynamic benefits for electric motorcycles.
These aerodynamic gains translate into improved range efficiency at highway speeds, potentially reducing battery size, weight, charge times, and overall costs. The system can also boost top speed, sustained speed, and acceleration while being less prone to efficiency loss at high speeds—a common drawback of battery technology.
Abe Askenazi, Zero Motorcycles CTO, commented: “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 motorcycle market, much like the automotive sector, is increasingly focusing on aerodynamic solutions to extend electric vehicle range. As battery density improves, motorcycles will have more room for aerodynamic enhancements, thus fostering a continuous cycle of improvement—larger ducts, fewer batteries, greater efficiency.
The WMCSRS concept is an example of what can be achieved when two innovative companies join forces to address a major industry challenge. The prototype will be on display at Motorcycle Live 2024 at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham, UK, from November 16-24, on the Zero Motorcycle Stand 4A15.
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