Polaris invests in electric motorcycle company Brammo
26 October 2011
Polaris Industries Inc. has made a minority investment in Brammo, an Ashland, Ore.-based maker of electric vehicle technology and two-wheel electric vehicles. By investing in Brammo, Polaris obtains access to its proprietary electric vehicle powertrain technology, as well as exposure to the rapidly growing electric motorcycle market.
Founded in 2002, Brammo has made its mark by developing electric vehicle technology tailored specifically for the motorcycle segment. Brammo currently offers the Enertia line of motorcycles, capable of speeds in excess of 60 mph and ranges up to 80 miles on a single charge. Brammo plans to expand their product line to include high-performance sport motorcycles capable of more than 100 miles on a single charge, as well as a full line of entry- to high-performance dirt and dual-sport motorcycles.
In addition to potentially utilizing Brammo technology in its own products, Polaris will collaborate with Brammo to grow their core business. Polaris and Brammo each bring distinct competencies and assets to this relationship.
With annual 2010 sales of $1.99 billion, Polaris designs, engineers, manufactures and markets innovative, high quality off-road vehicles, including all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and the Polaris RANGER for recreational and utility use, snowmobiles, motorcycles and on-road electric-powered vehicles.
Brammo designs and develops electric vehicles including the Encite, Enertia, Empulse and Engage motorcycles. Brammo is an OEM supplier of its innovative Brammo Digital Drivetrain systems including the Brammo Power battery pack and Brammo Power vehicle management system.
Expect more of these moves to unfold, many of the vehicles made by Polaris and their competitors are ripe for EV models, an example being the 4x4 side by side hunting buggies. The limited noise of EVs is also an important part of reducing the ecological impact these vehicles have on the areas they traverse.
Posted by: joookes | 27 October 2011 at 08:13 AM