While the world is currently preparing for a future where only electric vehicles will be used, universities from all over the planet are preparing the next generation of mechanical and electrical engineers with applied projects that allow their students to test the limits of this rapidly developing technology. Netherlands-based University of Twente, with its Electric Superbike Twente working group, has created a fourth-generation all-electric superbike called the Delta-XE.
Made by a team of 15 students at the University of Twente in Enschede, the Delta-XE is built around a Bakker Framebouw swingarm paired with an inverted Öhlins fork with a CrMoB steel lattice frame and ceramic-reinforced carbon fiber fork. Riding on forged aluminum wheels, the bike also features a GP-style switch, an AiM MXL 2 racing display, radial-mount four-pot calipers, and a full carbon fiber body package borrowed from Suter Racing’s track-only MMX 500.
A proprietary 170 kW (228 hp) PMAC motor coupled to the Cascadia Motion controller and a 13.5 kWh, 800 volt Lithium polymer battery powers this cutting-edge motorcycle. This special powertrain produces 590ft-lbs (800Nm) of torque at the rear wheel, enabling 0-60mph acceleration in under three seconds and a top speed of 186mph (300kph). Let’s not go without saying that the weight of the Delta-XE is only 485lbs (220kg).
Although the Delta-XE is just a training project, it can outperform some extremely high-performance bikes. The electric superbike, which offers great performance in this state, points to an exciting future. Click here if you want more information.
