The Motowatt W1X: A Unique Electric Motorcycle for Urban Mobility
The electric two-wheeler market is experiencing a surge in innovation, with a variety of unconventional and impressive machines hitting the streets. Electric vehicles (EVs) are particularly well-suited for urban environments due to their quiet operation, maneuverability, and high torque, making them ideal for navigating through traffic-filled streets. When equipped with practical accessories, electric motorcycles have the potential to replace cars for daily city trips.
This is precisely what French brothers Henri and Olivier Rabatel aimed to achieve when they established Motowatt, an electric motorbike startup, in 2020. Now, after four years of development, Motowatt introduces the W1X, a distinctive electric motorcycle designed for safe and efficient urban mobility. The Rabatel brothers took an unconventional approach to the W1X's design, incorporating components rarely seen in electric two-wheelers. Notably, the bike features a rugged steel frame and an intriguing cantilever-type front suspension system. Additionally, it boasts not one, but two electric motors, offering all-wheel drive capabilities.
The development of the Motowatt W1X took four years of extensive research and development, as the company prioritized building a carbon-neutral machine. Motowatt emphasizes the use of efficient manufacturing practices by employing common components and streamlined production processes. The company's design office is located near Lyon, France, while its production facility is situated near Figeac in southwestern France. Currently, Motowatt is a member of the France System 2030 initiative, a significant investment campaign by the French government supporting innovative companies with a focus on the future.
Delving into the technical details of the W1X, Motowatt designed the bike to be a practical and user-friendly city commuter. It is suitable for A1 and B license holders and offers an impressive range of 130 kilometers (approximately 81 miles) on a single charge. As mentioned earlier, the bike is equipped with two motors, one on each wheel, ensuring optimal traction and stability on various road conditions.
To cater to individual needs, Motowatt ensured that customers can customize the W1X according to their preferences. The bike can be outfitted with practical accessories such as a tank box, rear luggage case, and EMC adjustable shock absorbers to accommodate additional cargo weight. The braking system can also be upgraded with high-quality components from Beringer, and customers have the option to fit larger wheels and tires.
In terms of pricing and availability, the Motowatt W1X starts at 15,000 euros, equivalent to approximately $16,152 USD. While this may seem like a significant investment, it reflects the cost of pioneering new technology. Motowatt plans to begin deliveries of the W1X in January 2025. For more information on this innovative electric motorcycle, visit Motowatt's official website.
