White Motorcycle Concepts (WMC) has partnered with Zero Motorcycles to create the world’s first electric sports bike incorporating WMC’s patented central aerodynamic duct, delivering a 10% reduction in drag and improved performance at high speeds.
The prototype, based on the Zero SR/S, has been re-engineered with a vertically bifurcated duct running through the bike’s core, channelling air from behind the front wheel to just beneath the seat. Bespoke front fenders and fork shrouds were developed to maximise airflow through the system. The WMCSRS concept will debut publicly at Motorcycle Live 2024 on the Zero Motorcycles stand at the NEC in Birmingham.
Robert White, founder and CEO of White Motorcycle Concepts, said: “The whole industry is currently facing a huge technical/commercial challenge to produce an electric motorcycle with performance close to its petrol equivalent. This problem space will not be solved by battery technology alone, it requires a blend of innovations to bridge the gap now and provide efficiency benefits in the future. When I first saw the Zero SR/S frame and battery architecture, I immediately recognised the opportunity to retrofit a duct. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved, though the duct is limited by existing packaging constraints. It would offer even greater performance if integrated from the start of a motorcycle’s design.”
The duct concept, evolved from WMC’s electric land-speed record programme, improves aerodynamic efficiency while offering scalable benefits—extending range, reducing reliance on larger batteries, and enabling higher sustained speeds. The collaboration used Formula 1-derived simulation, aero rake testing and engineering techniques to validate the design.
Abe Askenazi, CTO of Zero Motorcycles, said: “From our initial meeting at EICMA we have been interested to understand the potential impact of WMC’s aerodynamic duct. We are committed to innovation and, while battery development is advancing rapidly, we believe a combination of technologies is the key to developing the electric motorcycles of the future. This proof of concept has given us valuable insights into the potential benefits of integrating an aerodynamic duct into electric motorcycles, and we will continue to explore complementary technological advancements to deliver market-leading products for our customers.”
The WMCSRS concept will be showcased at Motorcycle Live from 16th to 24th November 2024 at the NEC Birmingham on Stand 4A15.
