Morgan and Vanderhall have shown how to create cool electric three-wheelers, but Arcimoto didn’t get the memo as they introduced a rather unsightly Roadster prototype at Daytona Bike Week.
Designed to preview an upcoming production model, the prototype is a two-seater trike that features looks only a mother could love. The front end is particularly jarring as it’s decked out in lights and says semi more than motorcycle.
The Roadster also features a slender windscreen, covered front wheels and two Corbin seats with backrests. We can also see an exposed tubular structure and what appears to be a massive battery pack.
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Arcimoto didn’t say much about the model, but confirmed the Roadster rides on their patented all-electric platform and features a dual-motor front-wheel drive system. There’s no word on specifications, but the FUV has a dual-motor powertrain that produces 77 hp (57 kW / 78 PS). That being said, Arcimoto did confirm the Roadster will have a top speed of 75 mph (121 km/h) and a range of 102 miles (164 km) in the city.
In a statement, Arcimoto CEO Mark Frohnmayer said “For 80 years, Daytona Bike Week has been ruled by some of the most amazing bikes on the planet, almost all of them powered by fossil fuels. We think it’s time for a breath of fresh air” and “we’re stoked to introduce … a completely new way of riding, a three-wheel thrill ride unlike anything else on the road today.”
Full details will be announced in the coming months, but production is slated to begin later this year and Arcimoto is accepting reservations for $100. The production model is targeted to begin at $23,900 which would make it $4,000 cheaper than the Harley-Davidson Freewheeler.