Ducati's first electric motorcycle prototype, identified as V21L, will compete in the FIM MotoE World Cup from 2023. The Bologna-based motorcycle manufacturer will be a partner in the competition as its sole supplier, fielding 18 bikes on the track throughout every race weekend.
Ducati assembled a mixed team of Ducati and Ducati Corse designers to create the MotoE prototype.
The Ducati MotoE has a total weight of 225 kg, power and torque of 110 kW (150 hp) and 140 Nm. On the Mugello circuit in Italy, it’s already reached speeds of 170 mph (275 km/h).
The Ducati MotoE's battery pack, which is the most distinctive component in terms of mass and proportions, is distinguished by a shape designed to follow the natural path of the bike's central section. The battery pack has a capacity of 18 kWh, weighs 110 kg, and has a 20-kW charging port built into the tail. There are 1,152 cylindrical "21700" type cells inside.
The suspension system includes an Öhlins NPX 25/30 pressurised fork with 43 mm diameter upside-down tubes, which are taken from the Superleggera V4. It also has a fully adjustable Ohlins TTX36 shock absorber at the rear and an adjustable Ohlins steering damper…
The cooling system is one of the more advanced technological innovations tested on the Ducati MotoE prototype. The prototype parts are cooled by an effective liquid cooling system with a double circuit created to suit the various thermal requirements of the battery pack and the motor/inverter unit.It is designed to have significant advantages for both charging times and consistency of performance. The Ducati MotoE takes only 45 minutes to recharge it up to 80% of its range, so there is no need to wait for the battery pack to cool before beginning the process.
Ducati CEO Claudio Domenicali said: "The world is going through a complex period, and environmental sustainability is an element that all individuals and all companies must consider a priority if we want to preserve the delicate balance of the planet. As Ducati, we have grasped this need, and we went in search of a challenge that would allow us to contribute to the common goal of reducing CO₂ emissions and, at the same time, keep faith with our DNA linked to racing. We agreed with determination to develop the most performing electric racing bike that current technology makes possible and to use this project as a laboratory in which to build our future."
The Ducati MotoE project now has a section on the company's website covering all details.