In a strategic move to combat the rising incidents of phone snatching and moped/bike-enabled crimes, the Metropolitan Police Service in London has introduced a fleet of electric motorcycles. This initiative aligns with the force’s commitment to adopting sustainable practices while enhancing operational efficiency.
To meet the squad's specific needs, the Met has introduced five specially modified Sur-Ron Ultra Bee electric dirt bikes to its arsenal. The aim is for these bikes to assist in reducing phone thefts. They have been customized for the mission, and the officers operating them have received specialized training. It has also been confirmed that 'tactical contact' (allowing an officer to use the bike to apprehend an assailant, whether they are on another bike or on foot) has been approved.
Recent stats reveal that 91,000 mobile phones are snatched from the streets of London each year, translating to an alarming rate of one phone being stolen every six minutes. Many of these thefts are carried out by offenders using bicycles or electric motorbikes.
Sur-Ron Ultra Bee Stats:
The Sur-Ron Ultra Bee is an adaptable electric motorcycle crafted for off-road enthusiasts, providing a blend of performance, handling, and durability. The specifications listed below are for the standard bike and do not include any upgrades or modifications that the Met Police might have implemented.
Motor: 72V brushless DC motor
Power: 10kW (approximately 13.4 horsepower)
Torque: 150 Nm
Battery: 72V, 32Ah lithium-ion battery
Range: Up to 100-120 km (62-75 miles) on a full charge, depending on the rider's weight, terrain, and riding style.
Charging Time: Approx. 4-6 hours
Top Speed: 62 mph (100 km/h), Suitable for high-speed off-road riding.
Weight: 50 kg (110 lbs)
Regenerative Braking as standard
The Metropolitan Police's adoption of the Ultra Bee marks a welcome advancement in updating law enforcement tools to tackle today's challenges. Utilizing state-of-the-art technology, officers and The Force in general, are more effectively prepared to address crimes.
