As the world moves toward more sustainable transportation and ICE riders make the switch to two wheeled EVs, electric motorcycles are gaining traction among consumers and manufacturers alike. Along-side this, the second half of the 20s promises significant enhancements in battery technology which could improve the performance, efficiency, and overall experience of electric motorcycles.
Solid-State Batteries
Solid-state batteries represent a significant leap forward from traditional lithium-ion. Unlike their liquid counterparts, solid-state batteries use a solid electrolyte, which offers several advantages including increased energy density, improved safety and longer lifespans.
A higher energy density means they can store more energy in the same amount of space (they're lighter / hold more power), this means longer range, allowing riders to travel further without needing to recharge. The safety and lifespan advantages are also a no-brainer. Like all emerging technology, it has its downsides and hurdles to overcome. There is also talk of a quasi-solid-state battery in development that promises to offer the best of both worlds - Don't worry, I'll keep you updated as the details comes through. Just remember to subscribe :)
The Stanford ADVe comes with LiFePo batteries as standard, offering a notable improvement over L-Ion. This is a great addition to our ADV line-up. Its here.
Fast-Charging
We saw quick adoption of type 1 (USA) and type 2 (UK and EU) on-board chargers in 2024. These typically offer up to 45a. But this is only set to improve with battery management systems in the market allowing 80-90 amps charge.
Lightening Motorcycles in the USA are producing bikes with a 12 minute charge time (20%-90%). Additionally, as fast-charging technology becomes increasingly common, charging stations will become more available, enabling riders to go further. Since fast-charging is already standardised across electric cars, it's an easy adoption for motorcycle riders.
Recycling and Sustainability Improvements
As battery technology advances, so does the focus on sustainability. This requires implementation at the corporate level and is generally slow to blossom, however, battery manufacturers may be expected to implement enhanced recycling processes for used batteries. Or a side-sector might arise specialising in recycled batteries. This is certainly the case in other regions like India and China. Other ideas could involve:
Closed-Loop Recycling: New methods will allow for the recovery of valuable materials from old batteries, reducing the need for new raw materials and minimizing environmental impact.
Eco-Friendly Production: Innovations in battery production will lead to less toxic materials being used, making the entire lifecycle of the battery more sustainable.
Liquid Cooling
In 2024, liquid cooling made significant advancements. Typically, coolant circulates around the exterior surface of the battery and/or controller, enhancing cooling efficiency. Cooler components enable higher power throughput. In a novel design, Dimen's DT Pro dirt bike features a closed-cell liquid envelope that immerses the battery. The liquid stabilizes heat transfer, resulting in slower heating, improved heat dissipation, and increased durability in extreme weather conditions. It's here.
What Else?
You may have heard rumours about lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) packs announced in Beijing, featuring "proprietary honeycomb material," or Tesla's new 4680 Cybercell batteries intended to propel their products toward future global dominance. It's understandable if you're optimistic. Currently, these technologies are quite costly, and since the e-moto industry provides significantly more affordable products than the car manufacturers, it might take some time for these advancements to trickle down. It seems Lithium will remain prevalent for a while, but the future is undoubtedly lightweight and powerful.
Whilst internal battery technology is at the forefront of everyone's mind, some manufacturers have been innovative 'outside' the battery. Dimen have built a multi-use power-pack for their DP3 with removability and additional 12v and USB connectivity. This is bound to be popular with adventurers and campers alike, or anyone wishing to spend time without a mains socket at hand. With the 12v 'cigarette' output, the DP3 battery will power your lights, your phone, or even a freezer. I love this kind of forward thinking. We just need to work out how to carry the freezer! The DP3 is here.
What About Hydrogen?
I've also fantasised - I need to get out - about hydrogen fuel cell technology for two wheeled EVs. Fuels cells aren't anything new and there has been many attempts to get it right for a motorbike. You can find my article on this here.
Conclusion
The enhancements in battery technology expected in 2025 could offer riders significant improvements in performance, safety, and sustainability. It might take time, but as these innovations come to fruition, electric motorcycles will not only become a preferable alternative to traditional ice bikes but will also have greatly improved performance, helping the sector to push past it's predominantly 'commuter' position it currently holds in the market. The future of electric motorcycles looks bright, and riders can look forward to a new era of performance and sustainability.
Ride safe, folks.
