24 February 2015

Global launch for Irish electric motorbike manufacturer

Europe's newest electric motorcycle and scooter manufacturer, Volt Motorcycles, will unveil five new models at the Carole Nash Irish Motorbike & Scooter Show at the RDS in Dublin this coming weekend (February 27 - March 1), writes Trish Whelan.

Volt 220
Volt Motorcycles, based in Co Wexford, is Ireland's first manufacturer of electric motorcycles and scooters and one of just a handful of independent producers around the world. The company has chosen the Carole Nash Irish Motorbike & Scooter Show at the RDS to host the world première of their complete range - comprising five new models.

This innovative Irish company has designed and developed a range of motorbikes and scooters to suit all tastes and personalities, from the beginner rider to the more seasoned biker.

Leading the way at the RDS will be the Volt 220. Inspired by the styling of the top racing sports bikes, the Volt 220 has some impressive credentials to back it up. It has a top speed of 100kph, which is ideal for any rider in the urban and commuter belts around our towns and cities today; and a standard range of 120km per single charge which can be upgraded to 200km. It takes between 4 and 8 hours to charge from a standard household electric socket.

All of Volt’s vehicles can be charged at home or in the workplace, meaning that owning an electric motorcycle has never been easier. And all of them embody Volt’s ethos that not only must electric motorbikes be efficient, they must be fun to ride as well.
Colin Darby, Managing Director of Volt Motorcycles, said: “We previewed a single bike recently at the MCN London motorbike show in the UK and received an incredible response. While we could have launched the full range there, it was important to me to have the world premier back home and the Carole Nash Irish Motorbike & Scooter Show is easily the best platform to do so.”

Ruth Lemass, organiser of the Carole Nash Irish Motorbike & Scooter Show, said: “Every year we try to bring something new and innovative to the show. To have an Irish manufacturer is unique enough but the fact they are making electric bikes certainly fits into that category. We are honoured that they have chosen our event to host the world premier of their range. I can't wait to see the full range of the motorbikes and scooters and I am sure that thousands more bike enthusiasts also will be interested in finding out about them.”

In addition to the Volt 220, the company will première a range of city and maxi scooters at the show. Designed with a mixture of retro and modern looks to ensure they appeal to all visitors.

Colin Darby said: “Most interest we have had so far is from the urban rider who wants a low running cost solution for their commute. When you consider that the average commute is around 20 kilometres a day and that an electric alternative that will cost less than €200 to run a year, it makes great financial sense. We are not looking to replace but to supplement riders' experiences and save them money in the long run. Of course, we want to do all of this while keeping the motorcyclist experience exciting and fun as well.”

“Anyone who purchases one of our bikes can see the advantages immediately. You have no more fuel, no oil and no exhaust, virtually eliminating all routine powertrain maintenance. In addition, there are no emissions so Volt riders will be contributing to a cleaner and quieter environment."