The Arc Vector, the world’s most advanced electric motorcycle, is right on schedule and its breathtaking innovations are being eagerly refined. Announced at last November’s EICMA show in Milan, the £90,000 neo-café racer will enter full production at the end of 2020 with 399 units to be built to order in the first 18 months. This revolutionary motorcycle boasts Human Interface Technology, state-of-the-art carbon monocoque and swing arm, ground-breaking hub-centre steering, power-dense battery cells, bespoke brakes and suspension, and race-inspired wheels.
At the centre of the Vector is its ingenious battery-module carbon monocoque. Simplicity is key to its design and, countering the weight of the battery pack, the watchword is lightness. The motor and batteries are structurally integral to the monocoque, making the chassis incredibly stiff.
Arc is one of a tiny number of OEMs to develop its own carbon swing arm, in collaboration with MotoGP manufacturers Riba, which enables lateral flex for cornering stability, grip and agility. The liberal use of carbon, and other exotic materials such as quality alloys, exposed copper detailing and aircraft-grade aluminium, helps to keep the machine’s total dry weight down to 220kg.
Arc’s technical partners represent the best of breed. The Vector’s brake discs are Brembo and the calipers are their Stylemas, but bespoke in black oxide. The Ohlins suspension is entirely customisable, and the unique BST wheels are as light and strong as a pro race bike’s. Anti-lock brakes have been provided by Continental, Pirelli have made the tyres, the battery package is by Delta Motorsport. Arc is developing its own bespoke motor which saves on packaging space whilst being light and very powerful. All the ECUs are automotive-grade. The packaging of these components is masterful, enabling the lowest possible centre of gravity, minimal weight, sufficient cooling and a short, nimble wheelbase.
With a 399-volt electric motor producing 133bhp and a weight of 220kg, the Arc Vector will have the best power-to-weight ratio of any electric two-wheeler – 650bhp per tonne. Combined range will be around 270 miles. Zero to 60mph will arrive in three seconds and the top speed will be 125mph. No clutch, no gears, just you and the open road. Massive torque, traction control, ABS brakes, variable dynamic modes and ingenious Heads-Up Display and haptic alert systems make the Vector riding experience unique, safe and utterly euphoric.
