KTM E-Speed Electric Scooter Concept Revealed in Tokyo

KTM unveiled a new electric scooter concept at the 2013 Tokyo Motorcycle Show called the E-Speed. The E-Speed is the second electric model from KTM, following the Freeride E dirtbike.

The E-Speed actually shares the same electric battery and motor technology as the Freeride E, but repurposed for urban mobility. The E-Speed’s motor isn’t as powerful as the Freeride E’s however, with KTM claiming 14.8 hp and 26.6 ft-lb. compared to 29.5 hp and 30.9 ft-lb. for the Freedom E.

According to KTM, the E-Scooter weighs 309 pounds and has a top speed of 85 kph (53 mph). The E-Speed’s lithium ion battery has a capacity of 4.36 kWh which KTM claims offers a range of 40 miles can be fully charged within two hours from a normal household power outlet.

“We at KTM are completely convinced of electric mobility as a perfect complement to conventional powertrains,” says Stefan Pierer, chief executive officer of KTM. “In the long term, the electric drive will come out on top for short distances – particularly in areas which are highly sensitive from an environmental perspective, like open nature and densely populated metropolitan areas! Vehicles like the ‘E-Speed’ and Freeride E can help powered two-wheelers win back more acceptance in society. Not just because of their environmental credits, but because they are easy to use, quick, and simply great fun.”

The Austrian manufacturer gave the E-Speed a design that carries some traditional scooter styling cues but the overall look is very much KTM. Instead of a Vespa-style full front shield, the E-Speed has two small polymer air deflectors that hint at the shape of a shield but exposes the unique WP suspension design.

Instead of a fork or a linked suspension system mounted near the hub, the E-Speed has a single piston with a linkage to the right side of the front wheel. The rear suspension is a more conventional swingarm with a linked WP shock.

The KTM E-Speed is equipped with ABS brakes with 220mm discs, while regenerative braking recoups some of the energy to charge the battery.

The chassis uses a hybrid steel trellis frame with a separate subframe for the front suspension. The battery is housed in an aluminum casing which acts as a load-bearing part of the chassis. The slender seat is mounted on a completely polymer support.

[Source: KTM; Photos by Schedl R.]

By Dennis Chung