The Isle of Man Government has hosted the Tourist Trophy
(TT) Race since 1907. This motorcycle race involves high-speed time trials by international
teams around the 37-mile Mountain Course. For the second year, the TT Race
includes an all-electric motorcycle event called the TT Zero Race. The one-lap
TT Zero Race took place on June 10th with the MotoCzysz E1PC taking
first place among a field of five motorcycles. This zero-emissions motorcycle
was operated by Mark Miller and achieved a top speed of 96 miles per hour.
The MotoCzysz E1PC is powered by a 7.5 kW electric motor
that allows start-up from either side of the bike. The LQ 240V 85kW controller
connects the motor to the battery system and adjusts power based on battery
life, rider behavior and projected routes. The 12.5 kWh Digital Vehicle
Management System (DVMS) incorporates 10-1.25 kWh battery cells monitored by
LED displays. Each cell display tracks the life of the cell as well as the
overall life of the battery. All drive information on the MotoCzysz E1PC can be
transmitted wirelessly to crew members and observers.
The TT Zero Race premiered in 2009 as part of the Isle of
Man’s Freedom to Flourish Program. This program is designed to reduce
environmental impacts from transportation to preserve the island’s historical
landmarks. The Isle of Man Government has gone as far as offering a 100,000
pound ($146,231) reward to any TT Zero team that can achieve an average speed
of 100 miles per hour. This high speed was first achieved by Bob McIntyre
aboard a conventional motorcycle in 1957. The MotoCzysz E1PC reached 94 miles
per hour in a June 7th test run and came up short of the goal in the
official race.
Upon closer inspection, the 2010 TT Zero Race has a long
road to travel before it gains legitimacy in the eyes of motorcycle racers. The
latest race featured only five competitors with the MotoCzysz E1PC outpacing
the second-place AGNI Racing team by six miles per hour. The TT Zero Race took
place on the last day of a two-week event that features popular events like the
PokerStars Superbike TT Race and the Sure Sidecar Race. To keep MotoCzysz on
its toes, international motorcycle companies need to develop electric bikes
that can withstand the strains of the TT Zero Race.
