KIWI RIDER APRIL 2021 VOL1 | Page 15

new standards in terms of electric motorcycle efficiency ; application of this technology means a lighter weight overall with significantly more performance and range . In parallel , we have a very strong focus on design for manufacture and assembly activity , so that all this high motor and inverter performance can be offered costeffectively . Ultimately , this is really going to be an industry-leading powertrain that will help define the future of electric mobility . With the TE-1 project we are proud to be part of this landmark project for British industry .” The project is organised into four main phases , with one of its key aims being increased systems integration . By developing individual components of automotivebased electric drivetrains and optimising them into innovative combined units , the project aims to deliver sophisticated electric motorcycle systems which reduce mass , complexity and package requirements . Triumph Motorcycles is working alongside the partner organisations to accelerate joint expertise in the packaging and safety of batteries , optimum electric motor sizing and packaging , the integration of braking systems including regenerative braking , and advanced safety systems . The innovation and capabilities developed in these areas will input into Triumph ’ s future electric motorcycle strategy . “ The completion of Phase 2 , and the promising results achieved to date , provide an exciting glimpse of the potential electric future and showcase the talent and innovation of this unique British collaboration . Without a doubt , the outcome of this project will play a significant part in our future efforts to meet our customer ’ s ambition and desire to reduce their environmental impact and for more sustainable transportation ,” said Triumph CEO , Nick Bloor . “ This important project will provide one of the foundations for our future electric motorcycle strategy , which is ultimately focussed on delivering what riders want from their Triumph ; the perfect balance of performance , handling and real-world usability , with genuine Triumph character .” Triumph has designed a brand-new prototype chassis including main frame and rear frame which have been optimised alongside the battery and motor packages which will be further evolved in Phase 3 into the TE-1 Prototype which will be used as a mule test platform in Phase 4 . During this chassis development , Triumph has taken into account both the transmission design and the final styling of the TE-1 Prototype which was revealed with the initial sketches . “ Overall with the styling we wanted to create something that is fresh and exciting but a natural evolution of the Triumph brand ,” says Triumph Chief Product Officer Steve Sargent . “ Something desirable in its own right , with distinctive Triumph DNA and definitely not something that is different just for the sake of being different .” It definitely looks like a high-performance Triumph Roadster should , and with global companies in the automotive sector indicating that the end of internal combustion engines is nigh , the work Triumph is doing in the bike sector could prove to be very beneficial to the industry .
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