Royal Enfield takes EV field
CHANGE, it is said, is the only constant. Showing its openness to futuristic technology, Royal Enfield recently announced its foray into electric motorcycles with the launch of Flying Flea in Milan, Italy. A motorcycle of the same name was produced by Royal Enfield in the 1940s. Designed to be parachuted into war zones, the Flying Flea was known for its lightness and agility. During the launch, the company said it planned to introduce two electric models under the iconic brand. The classic-styled FF-C6 and the scrambler-styled FF-S6 will be in the market by early 2026.
The first model in the Flying Flea range is called the FF-C6 and features a retro-futuristic design. Inspired by the original model, it has a forged aluminium girder fork, reminiscent of motorcycles from the 1920s and 1930s. The frame is also made from forged aluminium, which is lightweight and durable, while the magnesium battery housing reduces weight and improves cooling.
According to Royal Enfield, these bikes have a driving range of over 100 km on a single charge, while being able to touch a top speed of 115 km/h.
With more than 200 engineers devoted to the project across India and the UK, the company has developed core components in-house. “We’ve been deeply investing in R&D and infrastructure for EV over the last many years, and have built a world-class team, including 200-plus engineers in India and the UK,” CEO B Govindarajan said, while unveiling the models in Milan.
“All aspects of our connected electric motorcycles, including product strategy and development, technical components like motor, battery, BMS, custom software, and our retail and market strategy, have been developed in-house,” added Govindarajan
The two-wheeler maker, say industry insiders, is planning to introduce its electric bike initially in Europe and the US. The first model under the Flying Flea range is set to hit the road in India in 2026, with the FF-C6.
Though electrification in India is being driven by two-wheelers, the electric motorcycle segment is yet to see significant traction. At present, electric motorcycles represent only about 1.5 per cent of EV two-wheeler sales. Major EV motorcycle manufacturers competing against Flying Flea will be Revolt Motors, Oben Electric, Odysse Electric and Ultraviolette. The price range at which Royal Enfield will be hitting the market is not yet out.
Chennai-based startup Raptee HV had recently launched T 30, claiming it to be India’s first high-voltage electric motorcycle, priced at Rs 2.39 lakh. In August, Ola Electric launched three motorcycles — Roadster, Roadster X and Roadster Pro. These bikes have a competitive starting price of Rs 74,999. Ather Energy, too, is developing a motorcycle platform. Hero MotoCorp is also planning a portfolio of electric motorcycles.
Salient features
Design: Round LED headlight, low seat height, comfortable rider ergonomics.
Estimated range: 100-150 km
Target use: Urban commuting
Front suspension: Girder forks
Frame: Forged aluminium frame
Safety features: Cornering ABS, traction control
