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Plug-In Hybrid Sedan With The Highest All-Electric Range In 2024

April 18, 2024 David Leave a comment

Plug-In hybrids are all the fashion proper now. Most producers produce cars that use a combined powertrain of electricity and internal combustion. Unlike a conventional hybrid, which makes use of an electrical motor to simply assist the internal combustion engine in driving the wheels, a plug-in hybrid can solely drive the automobile utilizing its electrical motor. This motor’s batteries are charged up in the identical manner an electrical automotive is, with a wire and plug. Hence, the plug-in hybrid.

Plug-in hybrids have an enormous benefit by way of gasoline effectivity in comparison with each ICEs and conventional hybrids. The benefit over ICE automobiles is apparent. The electrical motor assists the engine (most impactfully coming from a useless cease, the place the motor offers prompt torque) and reduces the quantity of petroleum consumed over the long term. However, the plug-in hybrid additionally permits the consumer to make use of no petroleum in any respect, in the event that they so select. For driving round city, the plug-in hybrid is simply nearly as good as an EV.

It’s simple to see why carmakers are enthusiastic about this know-how as a bridge between the ICE and the totally electrified future. With all that out of the way in which, you are doubtless interested by which plug-in hybrid sedan will get probably the most mileage on a single cost. Well, right here it’s.

In order to provide the most modern and correct data potential, the information used to compile this text was sourced from Mercedes’ web site and the EPA.

Mercedes S-Class Turns 50 Years: The Benchmark Of Luxury Sedans

A staple of Luxury motoring; here is having a look at how the flagship German sedan has advanced over the previous 5 many years

The Mercedes-Benz S580e Has The Longest All-Electric Range Of Any Sedan

Welcome to the plug-in hybrid sedan with the longest vary. Mercedes-Benz has completed it once more. The S-Class has been the chief in advancing auto know-how for many years. It wouldn’t be denied on the earth of plug-in know-how both. Mercedes has introduced new know-how into its well-known luxurious line, and made it the king, the primary attempt. The S580e is one other feather within the S-Class’ cap.

It Will Go 46 Miles On Battery Alone

46 miles on battery cost could sound somewhat low, however keep in mind, the plug-in hybrid is designed to work with an ICE engine alongside the electrical motor. However, 46 miles is admittedly nothing to chortle at. The common American commutes 41 miles a day for work. Theoretically, you can do your total journey on electrical energy alone in your S580e. All of that’s completed in luxurious consolation behind the wheel of the gold commonplace of luxurious sedan driving.

The Plug-in Hybrid SUV With The Highest Driving Range In 2024

The Japanese SUV’s unimaginable estimated driving vary is one more reason why it continues to dominate the PHEV market.

The S580e Is Efficient

Front 3/4 view of a Mercedes-Benz S580e — Mercedes-Benz

Don’t suppose that the plug-in S-Class is only a gimmick. Plug-in hybrids have benefits in each effectivity and energy. The electrical motor does present a critical enhance to the gasoline effectivity of the automotive in comparison with the purely gasoline-powered model.

The Big Mercedes Gets 68 MPGe On The Highway

MPGe is a score that’s designed to match electrified mileage to gasoline mileage. For the S580e that quantity is 68 on the freeway. For comparability, that is much like a Volkswagen Golf Diesel. You can take a large luxurious sedan throughout the nation at an analogous degree of effectivity as a diesel hatchback.

This is the brilliance of the plug-in hybrid. It offers all of the positives of a cost-effective automotive, however within the packaging of no matter form of automotive you want. In this case, a large luxurious limousine. When we take a look at the standard S-Class, we see it solely will get 29 MPG on the freeway. The hybrid powertrain greater than doubles the space of the automotive. Even higher, the advantages of getting a plugin-hybrid does not finish there.

All This With A 500+ Horsepower Powertrain

Plug-in hybrids additionally present a boost to the power of a vehicle. Electric motors are recognized for his or her ridiculous acceleration. That acceleration carries over if you add an electrical motor to a giant sedan. The S580e has 503 horsepower. With these horses, it may do 0-60 MPH in beneath 5 seconds. This means you’ll be able to pull up purpose-built speedy sedans just like the Alfa Romeo Giulia on the lights, and smoke them. Here are some extra efficiency figures.

0-60	4.8 seconds (est)
Top Speed	155 (restricted)
Horsepower	503 hp
Torque	553 lb-ft

(Data Sourced From Mercedes)

These are bonafide numbers for an enormous luxurious sedan. An S-Class no much less. You used to should get an AMG model of a giant Mercedes to get these sorts of numbers. Now you go inexperienced and also you get some efficiency as payback. It’s cheaper to run, and it does not lose any of the thrills. Plug-in hybrid know-how is fairly cool.

The Cheapest Plug-in Hybrid Vehicles In 2024

Plug-in hybrids are considered as the proper stop-gap between pure ICEs and BEVs, and listed below are your finest bets in the event you’re on a price range.

The Plug-In S-Class Is Not Cheap

Black Mercedes S-Class S580e Plug-in Hybrid Driving — Mercedes

Mercedes shouldn’t be often called a price range model. That’s in all probability as a result of it is not. It’s been one of many high luxury manufacturers on the earth for over a century. Many dictators have had Mercedes, (extra particularly the 600 Grosser) which is form of a black mark on the model. However, it additionally exhibits that the model is so good, that these with absolute energy select it over the rest. Here’s what we all know concerning the pricing of the S580e.

It Starts At $127,750

As we mentioned, it isn’t low cost. A beginning value of over $125,000 is a bit mind-blowing for a sedan, even one as good as an S-Class. However, it isn’t an enormous leap up from the bottom mannequin. An S500 prices $117,800 to begin; so, about eight grand extra for the plug-in hybrid, which starts at $127,750. Presumably, over the lifetime of the automotive, it will be fairly simple to avoid wasting that cash on gasoline prices, so the offset shouldn’t be an enormous deal. However, the comparable petroleum mannequin is barely costlier. The S580e 4-Matic begins at $128,150. So if you wish to purchase a 55-inch TV, get the plug-in hybrid, and save $400.

Fully Loaded, Prices Can Go Over $165,000

The S580e has some loopy choices. Rear local weather management is simply included within the govt line bundle, which is $16,100. You can have ventilated and cooled rear seats for $3,800, however that will not present rear controls. You can also get rear-wheel steering for higher driving. With all of the upgrades, you’ll be able to push the value nicely over $150,000 all the way in which to about $166,000. That’s basically a complete Toyota Tacoma for the price of optionally available extras on the Mercedes. Woof.

10 Most Reliable Plug-in Hybrid Vehicles According To Consumer Reports

Plug-in hybrids have gotten a well-liked alternative now on condition that we’re shifting in direction of electrification, and listed below are 10 PHEVs that will not quit on you.

The Prius Prime Is The Runner Up

2023 Prius Prime XSE Supersonic Red — Toyota

The Mercedes is not the one plug-in hybrid sedan that can do over 40 miles on its EV battery. Toyota, the king of economical driving, is true there as nicely. The Prius Prime is the latest providing from the most well-liked hybrid franchise of all time, and predictably, it is extraordinarily economical as nicely.

The Hybrid Legend Will Do 44 Miles On Its Battery

44 miles; simply two in need of the Mercedes. The Prius Prime is designed to be an improvement on the long-standing first-choice hybrid vehicle for individuals all around the globe. The Prime model of the historical hybrid vehicle is not only an eco field. It has a large touchscreen show, an enormous glass roof, and site visitors jam help. It may even do 0-60 in a brisk 6.6 seconds. The actual social gathering piece, nonetheless, is, after all, the economic system. We’re not going to bury the lede.

While it may do 44 miles on battery alone, it will get a shocking 133 MPGe mixed. That is double the Mercedes freeway effectivity. An completely staggering determine. Toyota all the time desires to push the boundaries of what’s potential for economical automobiles.

2024 Toyota Prius Prime Specs

Engine	2.0-liter Inline-Four Cylinder and two electrical motors
Engine Output	220 Horsepower
Electric Range	44 miles
Torque	139 LB/FT
Drivetrain	Front-Wheel-Drive
Fuel Economy	133 MPGe (mixed)

(Specs sourced from Toyota)

Toyota as all the time brings the warmth to the hybrid world. The Prius Prime starts at $32,675. which places it at a few quarter of the value of the Mercedes. So actually, it does beg the query, is that ~$90,000 definitely worth the two miles of electrical vary? Of course, the variations aren’t simply there. The Prius Prime is clearly a way more spartan automobile by way of lodging and gear. There can be no massaging seats, or rear tv screens to be discovered within the Prime. It all will depend on what you need as a client. They are two fully totally different automobiles with one factor linking them. The energy of plug-in hybrid know-how.

News

Are Brabus And KTM Working On A New 1400 R Based On The 1390 Super Duke?

March 17, 2024 David

For the previous two years, German automotive tuning firm Brabus has been in mattress with KTM to provide the 1300 R, a souped-up model of the KTM 1290 Super Duke R.

But again in September, it was introduced that the Brabus 1300 R Masterpiece Edition was to be the final collaboration between the 2 corporations. The two even despatched it off with a bang, saying that the Masterpiece could be restricted to simply 50 models.

Now, in the event you’re one of many fortunate house owners of these 50 bikes, effectively, I hate to interrupt it to you, however evidently KTM and Brabus have been precisely telling the reality as new patents filed within the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) as current as March 1, 2024, appear to counsel that KTM and Brabus are at it once more.

Limited to solely 50 examples, the Brabus 1300 R Masterpiece was believed to be the final collaboration between Brabus and KTM.

We beforehand went into nice element concerning the new KTM 1390 Super Duke R, and evidently it’s too good of a motorcycle for Brabus and KTM to name it quits. So sure, it seems that a KTM Brabus 1400 R is within the works, and can use the revised 1,350cc LC8 engine from KTM—for reference, this engine pumps out an insane 190 horsepower and 107 pound-feet of torque.

To sweeten the deal, evidently Brabus is eyeing not one, not two, however three variants below the brand new Brabus 1400 R mannequin. According to the corporate’s EUIPO filings, they trace at a “Brabus 1400 R Rocket,” and given using the Rocket identify in Brabus’ previous fashions, this might imply that this can be a high-performance variant whose sole goal in life is to pop dank wheelies and rip riders’ arms out of their sockets.

There’s additionally the “Brabus 1400 R Signature,” which we are able to solely assume to be a special-edition model bearing luxurious touches, and maybe, a novel colour scheme. Lastly, the “Brabus 1400 R Tailor Made” is greater than doubtless a customized model that might be constructed in response to the preferences of particular person shoppers.

As of this writing, nevertheless, it’s necessary to notice that there’s no official phrase from both Brabus or KTM confirming the event of the 1400 R. We reached out to Brabus for remark. Their reply? A easy “No comment.” Alright then, Brabus. Keep your secrets and techniques. For now.

Nevertheless, given the truth that patents for the brand new mannequin have been filed this month, it’s greater than doubtless that we’ll see these bikes within the metallic earlier than 2024 attracts to an in depth.

News

The Most Expensive Feature Offered By Each Luxury Car Brand

March 2, 2024 David

The concept of luxury has been a significant promoting level for producers who produce any kind of automotive on the highway. Whether it is a household sedan or an omnipotent supercar, choosing no less than some class is one thing these producers have used to one-up their competitors for over a century. Moving into 2024, with numerous completely different automakers producing excellent vehicles, luxurious as a complete has reached new heights in the industry, with these automakers providing at occasions wildly costly extra options.

Some of the priciest examples of optional extras and features reminiscent of Bentley’s Breitling clock within the Bentayga costing $181,000, Mercedes-Maybach’s granite trim costing $55,000, and the Bugatti Veyron’s carbon end costing $293,000 rapidly caught consideration, being a testomony to simply how far upmarket auto manufacturers have not too long ago gone to guide the luxurious phase throughout their respective classes. Moving away from these latest headline grabbers, this is a more in-depth take a look at among the most costly options provided in luxurious vehicles on sale at the moment.

10 Things To Expect With Luxury Car Ownership

Despite what advertisers and automotive sellers let you know, this is why proudly owning a luxurious automotive will not be for everybody

In order to provide the latest and correct data doable, the info used to compile this text was sourced from varied producer web sites. The entries on this record are organized primarily based on the worth, ordering from lowest to highest.

10 Lexus’ Haku Door Trim

Price: $1,200

The Exclusive Lexus LS Haku Door Trim — Lexus

*Outside of the ultra-luxury, extremely costly producers like Rolls-Royce and Bentley; Lexus has developed into some of the outstanding manufacturers for offering luxurious at a extra inexpensive value. Through high-quality supplies and cutting-edge tech, Lexus makes positive to stay forward of the curve with every of their fashions, with the LS sedan offering a standout feature.

In 2024, the Lexus LS is the costliest sedan within the Japanese producer’s fleet, with the top-of-the-range LS 500h trim beginning at $115,560. This is the flagship luxurious sedan for Lexus, making it no shock to see the Haku door trim function for the 500h.

This hand-crafted version to the cabin is created by means of mounting threads of steel foil onto washi paper, and reducing them into skinny strips to make a yarn. Adding an additional $1,200 to the worth tag, the Haku door trim completely honors historic Japanese craftsmanship whereas including to the general high quality of the luxurious sedan.

Additional Options:

Outside the Haku door trim, the ’24 Lexus LS 500h affords three completely different inside colours.
19-inch alloy noise-reduction wheels can be found for the LS 500h for an additional $1,120.

9 Cadillac Escalade’s Onyx Package

Price: $2,995

The 2024 Cadillac Escalade's rear nameplate with the Onyx Package — Cadillac

Moving to American luxurious producers, only a few manufacturers have as a lot of a profile because the Detroit-based model for delivering first-class automobiles. Over the years, Cadillac has produced some fairly particular vehicles, but the Escalade has been their flagship SUV ever since its launch again in 1999.

In 2024, the Escalade stays one of many model’s main automobiles, selling the very best degree of luxurious. The SUV is understood for its subtle but daring picture, with the optionally available Onyx bundle taking it to a brand new degree. The bundle features a gloss black Escalade nameplate, monochrome Cadillac emblems, and gloss black alloy wheels, creating a totally blacked-out SUV beaming with understated luxurious.

Additional Options:

The two most costly paint jobs embrace Crystal White and Radiant Red, each costing $1,225.
Inside, the ’24 Escalade comes with three completely different trim choices, together with Whisper Beige, Jet Black, and Dark Auburn.
For an additional $600, the Escalade comes with a two-speed switch case to enhance its capabilities.

8 Mercedes S-Class Nappa Leather Options

Price: $5,400

The Interior For The 2023 Mercedes S Class — Mercedes

A producer that may by no means go with out point out within the luxurious phase is Mercedes. The Stuttgart-based model greater than honors the German automotive legacy of creating some of the most impeccable luxury cars on the market, with the S-Class sedan being on the high of the present gas-powered fleet.

The exterior of the S-Class is fashionable, smooth, and uniform, which is every little thing you need from a luxurious sedan. However, the within is the place the S-Class shines inside its phase, being refined and cutting-edge in nearly each space.

Alongside the big selection of trims, Mercedes affords Nappa Leather upholstery for the S-Class, introducing the very best degree of consolation and luxurious. There are 5 completely different Nappa Leather choices out there, together with black, sienna brown/black, beige/grey, crimson/black, and silver grey/black colorways.

Additional Features:

The S Class has 5 completely different trim choices, with the costliest being the MANUFAKTUR Natural Grain Walnut wooden with Aluminum Lines costing $3,200.
The heart console additionally has an unique design out there, with the Black Dotted Lines trim design including one other $300.

7 Audi A8 Luxury Package

Price: $5,400

The Interior For The 2024 Audi A8 — Audi

In at the moment’s luxurious automotive market, expertise is arguably simply as, if no more, necessary than the automotive’s look. Cutting-edge expertise has helped massively to streamline the cabin expertise, one thing which Audi has absolutely embraced. Competing with the Mercedes S-Class and the BMW 7 Series, the A8 is currently Audi’s ultimate luxury sedan on the American market. In 2024, the A8 did not obtain too many adjustments because the mannequin was solely redesigned in 2022.

The inside of the A8 exceptionally combines completely different supplies, together with wooden and leather-based, which encompass the high-tech infotainment screens within the heart console. The automotive naturally comes with a 12.3-inch digital digital show, however the top-of-the-line Luxury bundle provides entrance ventilated therapeutic massage seats and dynamic all-wheel-steering.

Additional Options:

The ’24 Audi A8 comes with 4 completely different wheel choices, with the costliest coming with the black optic plus bundle costing $2,750.
Alongside the expertise bundle, the premium bundle provides options reminiscent of adaptive cruise help and LED inside lighting.

The Top Luxury Cars Of 2023

Delivering unmatched consolation, opulence, and beautiful craftsmanship, listed below are the ten most luxurious vehicles of 2023

6 Aston Martin’s Twill Carbon Fiber Interior Jewelry

Price: $6,900

The Twill Carbon Fiber Interior Jewelry For The 2024 Aston Martin DBX — Aston Martin

Yet one other iconic model in British automotive historical past is Aston Martin. With deep roots in motorsport, Aston Martin delves even additional into sports activities/GT automotive territory however retains the synonymous British class. With the fashionable Aston Martins leaning in the direction of the aggressive facet to maximise efficiency, the interiors are where this elegance is turned up to the max.

One Aston Martin that is seen huge success in recent times is the DBX, the one SUV at the moment provided by the model. The DBX707 is the quickest SUV on the market, greater than honoring the model’s racing heritage, however the mannequin consists of loads of inside options to compete with the perfect luxurious SUVs as nicely. For an additional $6,900, the twill carbon fiber inside jewellery provides a contemporary, refined really feel to the cabin, affecting the middle console environment in addition to introducing absolutely carbon paddle shifters.

Additional Options:

As nicely because the twill carbon fiber jewellery, each satin chrome and darkish satin chrome can be found.
The DBX707 comes with two exterior packages out there, together with Gloss Black and Carbon Fiber.

5 BMW’s Full Merino Leather For The 7 Series

Price: $7,300

The Interior For The 2024 BMW 7 Series — BMW

When it involves luxurious sedans, BMW will at all times be a model to return up first. Currently, the 7 Series is the flagship luxurious sedan for the model, being the most important within the fleet offering the most interior space. Despite the outside boasting a smooth, fashionable design, the main focus for the 7 Series is on the within.

As normal, the ’24 7 Series comes with Veganza leather-based upholstery, which affords quite a lot of consolation and high quality on the base degree. However, for essentially the most snug experience doable, the choice of full Merino leather-based provides an additional $7,300 to the $96,400 beginning value. Merino leather-based is famend for its plush really feel, making the worth improve justified.

Additional Options:

The 7 Series comes with a rear government lounge seating choice, including reclining seats, a rear heart console, and a 31-inch BMW theater display screen.
Crystal headlights are additionally out there for the ’24 7 Series, enhancing general visibility and elegance.

10 German Luxury Cars That Exude Opulence And Class

Renowned for his or her consideration to element, high-quality cabins, and precision engineering, these German vehicles set the benchmark for luxurious motoring

4 Rolls-Royce Starlight Headliner

Price: ~ $10,000

The Rolls-Royce Starlight Headliner — Rolls-Royce

A producer that has been a pillar of automotive luxurious is Rolls-Royce, which has been persistently setting a new standard throughout the industry for everybody to chase. Founded again in 1906, Rolls-Royce has produced among the most iconic luxurious automotive nameplates in historical past, together with some equally memorable options inside.

One of those options is the Starlight Headliner, which was launched in 2007. At the time, this took the model to new heights concerning the Rolls-Royce inside expertise, with it nonetheless managing to offer the identical distinctive really feel to the model’s all-new luxurious vehicles. The Starlight Headliner is obtainable for the Phantom, Ghost, and Wraith, with it being a value on-request

Additional Options:

The ’24 Rolls-Royce Phantom affords an array of dashboard designs, being named The Gallery. Some choices embrace Cascade Gold, Technical Fiber, and Ruthenium Bloom.
The iconic Spirit of Ecstacy decoration will be personalized on the Phantom, together with a silver choice together with a carbon fiber choice.

3 Genesis Prestige Package For The GV80

Price: $11,750

The Interior For The 2024 Genesis GV80 — Genesis

Out of all of the manufacturers to function on this record, Genesis is essentially the most not too long ago based, with the primary mannequin being unveiled in 2003. The model itself is a luxurious division of South Korean producer Hyundai, designed to compete with the most important Asian luxurious automakers reminiscent of Lexus, after which the worldwide market.

In 2024, Genesis affords a complete of eight fashions, with the GV80 SUV being the largest model in the current fleet. The GV80 is not as costly because the G80 or G90 sedans, beginning at $57,700. However, for a further $11,750, you may go for the Prestige Package, including components to simply about each space of the automotive. Some of the standout options embrace 22-inch alloy wheels, an electronically managed suspension, and a 12.3-inch 3D digital cluster.

Additional Options:

Below the Prestige Package is the Advanced, which as a substitute consists of 20-inch wheels and an 8.0-inch digital cluster.
The ’24 GV80 comes with 5 extra paint shades moreover the usual Alta White, every costing an additional $650.

2 Mercedes-Maybach GLS Crystal White And Silver Grey Pearl Interior Trim

Price: $13,500

Originally beginning out as an impartial model, Maybach was acquired by Mercedes in 2013 changing into a sub-brand of the German automaker. Currently, Mercedes-Maybach affords three completely different fashions, with the GLS being the brand’s only gas-powered SUV, with the EQS being all-electric.

On the skin, the Maybach GLS receives some minor updates to make it distinguishable from the bottom Mercedes mannequin, however the true magic of the Maybach nameplate is discovered inside. The GLS’ inside is industry-leading, that includes a big array of intuitive tech and the very best high quality supplies for the upholstery.

At the bottom degree, the Maybach GLS comes with both black Nappa leather-based or a brown and beige combine. However, for a further $13,500, the long-lasting Crystal White/Silver Gray Pearl trim will be chosen, reworking the inside right into a full-white, serene area.

Additional Options:

The two-tone exterior paint jobs are additionally costly, with every of the 4 choices costing $22,900.
The ’24 Maybach GLS comes with three completely different wooden trim accent choices, together with high-gloss black, brown walnut wooden, and grey oakwood.
Besides the Crystal White MANUFAKTUR trim, Nappa Black Leather and Mahogany Brown are additionally out there.

The Real Difference Between Mercedes And Maybach

While each are exceptional luxurious manufacturers, this is why the ultra-exclusive German marque is a lower above the three-pointed star

1 Range Rover SV Signature Suite

Price: $19,740

The SV Signature Suite For The 2024 Range Rover SV — Land Rover

In the world of ultra-luxury SUVs, the Range Rover mannequin rapidly developed right into a critical challenger within the phase for many years. Stemming from the off-road-focused Land Rover, Range Rover took the inspiration of the Land Rovers and created among the most elegant but sensible SUVs you might discover. In 2024, Land Rover affords 4 completely different Range Rover fashions, with the merely named ‘Range Rover’ being the most expensive, beginning at $107,400. However, the costliest trim, the SV Long Wheelbase, begins at a whopping $234,000.

Despite being the costliest Range Rover by fairly a major margin, the SV Long Wheelbase offers the exclusive SV Signature Suite, an choice that transforms the rear of the cabin into essentially the most luxurious area doable. This provides the full-length rear heart console touchscreen show, an electronically managed fridge with crystal glassware, sculpted arm helps, and the staple deployable membership desk stemming from the rear heart console.

Additional Options:

The ’24 SV comes with two exterior themes; the Intrepid and the Serenity.
The mannequin has a complete of seven completely different 22-inch wheels, all at no extra value.
The Ultrafabric inside trim choice prices a further $3,000, completed in a cinder grey colour scheme.

Motorsport

BMW Won’t Put The Z4 Coupe Concept Into Production

February 29, 2024 Prafful Singh

BMW has no plans to provide the Z4 Coupe idea. After its debut ultimately yr’s Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, the rumor mill went wild, alleging BMW had plans to make the automotive in restricted numbers. A brand new report says the automaker thought of the concept earlier than scrapping it.

BMWBlog stories firm executives have canceled plans to provide the automotive. According to the publication’s sources, BMW went so far as constructing a enterprise case for the automobile that included producing 50 automobiles at $250,000 every. But that wasn’t sufficient to resurrect the “Clown Shoe” and switch the Concept Touring Coupe right into a actuality. A BMW spokesperson declined to remark when reached by Motor1.

Electric Vehicles

Jason Momoa’s Rolls-Royce: An Iconic 1929 Phantom II Made Electric

February 14, 2024 David

Rolls-Royce has a repute for a lot of issues, however the lack of noise they produce is certainly one of their most well-known options. While electrical motors being quiet is a given, and cramming sufficient insulation into an engine compartment to silence a truck-sized six-cylinder or a hefty V-12 is arguably extra spectacular — it is refreshing to know that the “Aquaman” star’s Phantom is as mute because the spirit it attracts its identify from.

The motors additionally give the basic a really trendy quantity of grunt, 201 horsepower to be actual, which is greater than 4 instances what its unique 96-year-old engine produced when new. The conversion comes with three drive modes, although “Sport” mode is an odd selection for a automotive in-built 1929 with very slender wheels, and it is attention-grabbing to see how the restricted rubber will reply to a reasonably highly effective motor with an aggressive throttle response.

As for vary, the present tough estimate is 150 miles. Though electrical vary can fluctuate significantly with issues like the quantity of weight a automobile is carrying, the floor it is driving on, and even the thickness of the air its driving by way of all enjoying a component.

News

10 Classic Motorcycles That Had Impressive Power

January 23, 2024 David

It’s mind-boggling that we reside in an period the place bikes effortlessly produce over 240 horsepower whereas weighing lower than 400 kilos. We’re speaking, in fact, in regards to the Panigale V4 R, probably the most highly effective manufacturing motorbike. But don’t even get us began on the Kawasaki H2R or the Ducati Superleggera V4. Thanks to those bikes, we are inclined to take horsepower as a right. Take the Kawasaki Ninja 650, for instance, which is plenty powerful in its own right, however is usually dismissed by seasoned riders for being “slow”, despite the fact that it’s nonetheless able to outpacing many sports activities automobiles.

But rewind the clock a number of a long time and your perspective will shift drastically. The first ever motorbike solely produced half a horsepower, and the Harley-Davidson Model 1, the fastest motorcycle of its time, solely produced 4 horsepower. So, be part of us as we check out these ten basic bikes that when outlined efficiency, however have now been overshadowed by trendy middleweight sports activities bikes — not less than most of them.

In order to provide the latest and correct info attainable, the information used to compile this text was sourced from the producers and different authoritative sources, together with Motorcycle News, Robb Report, Web Bike World, Bonhams, Motorcycle Specs, and Fastest Laps. The bikes are listed as per their manufacturing years, from the oldest to the most recent.

1993 Honda CBR900RR Fireblade front 3/4 shot

10 Used Yet Iconic Classic Motorcycles That Are Affordable Today

You do not at all times need to promote your own home to personal iconic, basic bikes.

10 Brough Superior SS100 Alpine Grand Sports

Power Output: 75 HP @ 4,000 RPM

It was the early 1900s, and George Brough had determined to up the ante a bit. Taking inspiration from Purdey customized rifles, engines from JAP, and ideas from Rolls-Royce, the Brough Super SS-100 was created. The ultimate bespoke machine ever built — it’s mentioned that no two SS100s are the identical.

This ravishing motorbike produced anyplace from 30 to 50 horsepower, however this wasn’t sufficient for the British marque. So, it determined to up the ante much more by producing the SS-100 Alpine Grand Sports, a touring variant of the bottom mannequin, which produced over 75 horsepower throughout a time when 50 horsepower was thought of groundbreaking.

Performance Specs

Engine Type	Air-cooled, OHV, 50-degree JAP V-twin
Displacement	998cc
Frame Type	Duplex cradle kind
Max Torque	Unknown
Top Speed	Over 100 MPH

(Specs sourced from Brough Superior, Web Bike World, and Bonhams)

Production Years: 1934 to 1940

9 Vincent Black Lightning

Power Output: 70 HP

You ccold think about the Vincent Black Lightning as an ancestor of the Suzuki Hayabusa — it was the quickest motorbike of the time, reaching speeds of 125 MPH, when even the quickest automobile, the Jaguar XK120, may solely hit 120 MPH. It was years forward of its time, due to its distinctive girder fork and cantilever rear suspension, quad-SLS drum brakes, and an absence of body.

As with Brough Superior and SS100, Vincent wasn’t proud of the Black Shadow, so he reworked the motorbike to supply the Black Lightning. This radical motorbike had 15 extra horses and weighed 85 kilos lower than the usual variant, however solely 30 of those had been ever produced. In 1948, Rollie Free set the world speed record on a modified model of this bike, hitting a high velocity of 150 MPH. Today, the Black Lightning sells for upwards of 1,000,000 {dollars}!

Performance Specs

Engine Type	Four-stroke, OHV, 50-degree, V-twin
Displacement	998cc
Frame Type	Tubular spine
Max Torque	Unknown
Weight	380 kilos
Top Speed	150 MPH

(Specs sourced from Motorcycle Specs and Robb Report)

Production Years: 1949 to 1952

8 MV Agusta 750S

Power Output: 72 HP

1973 MV Agusta 750 Sport in red, white, and blue — 1973 MV Agusta 750S – The Vintagent

The MV Agusta 750S was the ultimate motorbike with Count Domenico Agusta’s involvement, and it was a shocking motorbike that pushed approach above its weight class. As with any MV Agusta ever made, the 750S is a gorgeous Italian café racer, decked in pink, white, and blue livery. But what made the bike much more particular was its ridiculous energy supply and race-spec chassis — this was the quickest four-cylinder motorbike of the time. Today, count on to shell out within the low six figures for this motorbike at public sale.

Performance Specs

Engine Type	Four-stroke, DOHC, inline-four
Displacement	742.9cc
Frame Type	Tubular metal double cradle
Max Torque	55 LB-FT
Weight	540 kilos
Top Speed	120 MPH

(Specs sourced from Motorcycle Specs and Fastest Laps)

Production Years: 1970 to 1975

5 Retro Bikes We Love (And 5 Genuine Classics We’d Rather Buy)

Retro bikes of the current are wonderful machines, however the classics have a particular place in our hearts

7 Kawasaki Z1

Power Output: 82 HP @ 8,500 RPM

Kawasaki Z1 (1972), Z1A (1974) and Z1B (1975) — tristanbrand, CC BY 2.0, by way of Wikimedia Commons

The Honda CB750 would be the world’s first true superbike, however it by no means held a spark plug to the Kawasaki Z1. This legendary Kawasaki carefully adopted MV Agusta, and it was also the first Japanese four-cylinder to come with DOHC. Thanks to its engine design, the motorbike may simply cross 130 MPH, lastly breaking Vincent Black Shadow’s velocity file for road-going manufacturing bikes.

Performance Specs

Engine Type	Four-stroke, DOHC, inline-four
Displacement	903cc
Frame Type	Double tubular metal cradle
Max Torque	54.3 LB-FT @ 7,000 RPM
Weight	507 kilos (dry)
Top Speed	135 MPH
1/4 Mile Acceleration	12.61 seconds @ 105.63 MPH
0 to 60 MPH	4.8 seconds

(Specs sourced from Motorcycle Specs)

Production Years: 1972 to 1975

6 Kawasaki GPZ900R

Power Output: 108 HP @ 9,500 RPM

Maverick’s model is marked with aviator sun shades, a mustache, a leather-based jacket, and probably the most highly effective motorbike of the time. He rode the Kawasaki GPZ900R again then, and right this moment, he rides the Kawasaki H2. That’s how you already know this motorbike is particular. This superb Kawasaki produced almost 110 horsepower and was the primary manufacturing motorbike to interrupt the 150 MPH file right off the showroom floor. The design could not have aged properly, however the motorbike is likely one of the most necessary bikes Kawasaki ever constructed.

Performance Specs

Engine Type	Four-stroke, DOHC, inline-four
Displacement	908cc
Frame Type	62.9 LB-FT
Max Torque	Iron double cradle
Weight	502 kilos
Top Speed	155 MPH
1/4 Mile Acceleration	11.3 seconds

(Specs sourced from Motorcycle Specs)

Production Years: 1984 to 2003

5 Britten V1000

Power Output: 166 HP @ 9,500 RPM

John Britten's V-1000 Motorcyle — https://britten.co.nz/

Give a passionate Kiwi craftsman a number of good pals, a storage, and a life to dedicate to a motorbike, and he’ll produce probably the most revolutionary motorbike ever. And that’s precisely what John Britten did with the V1000, a motorcycle so groundbreaking it wiped the ground with factory-built race bikes on the time. With a powerful energy supply, superior aerodynamics for the time, and ingenious engineering, the V1000 was like bringing a gun to a sword battle. Unfortunately, solely 10 of those had been ever constructed and have now been retired to museum duty.

Performance Specs

Engine Type	DOHC, V-twin
Displacement	999cc
Frame Type	Fully careworn engine with ducked under-seat radiator; high chassis, girder, and swingarm constructed in kevlar/carbon composites
Max Torque	Unknown
Weight	304 kilos
Top Speed	188 MPH

(Specs sourced from Britten)

Production Years: 1991 to 1998

A rider sitting astride a black 2023 Kawasaki Z900RS Café

15 Best Modern Classic Motorcycles Under 1000cc

Retro designs are all the fashion nowadays, and bikemakers are very happy to provide what clients need

4 Honda NR750

Power Output: 125 HP @ 14,000 RPM

The Ducati 916 would be the most lovely motorbike, however even that had to take inspiration from somewhere, and it was taken from the Honda NR750. When it was launched, the Honda NR750 was the closest factor you can purchase to a Grand Prix bike. This was the primary manufacturing motorbike to function digital gas injection, inverted forks, under-seat exhausts, and carbon fiber fairings.

But you might be considering, “Only 124 horsepower?” The factor is, the NR750 featured oval pistons, which basically made a V8 engine with cylinders mixed. The end result was not solely a hellish exhaust be aware however a driving expertise that was terrifying in case you weren’t ready and expert for it. When it involves Honda, the NR750 deserves the utmost reverence — it’s probably the most iconic sports activities bikes ever constructed.

Performance Specs

Engine Type	90-degree V4 with oval cylinders
Displacement	747.7cc
Frame Type	Triple-square part twin-tube
Max Torque	48.67 LB-FT @ 11,000 RPM
Weight	491 kilos (dry)
Top Speed	159.8 MPH

(Specs sourced from Motorcycle Specs)

Production Years: 1992 to 1993

3 Honda CBR1100XX Super Blackbird

Power Output: 164 HP

During the height of race wars, Honda produced a sports activities bike that outrun each different motorbike on the street. Aptly named after the SR-71 Blackbird, the Super Blackbird was a one-of-a-kind big-bore four-cylinder sports activities bike that was designed with velocity in thoughts. As a end result, it was lengthy, low, and comfy to experience — no surprise it’s usually thought to be a sports activities tourer. At low speeds, it was tractable, and you can cross nations on it, however open up the throttle, and you’d leave everyone else in dust.

Performance Specs

Engine Type	Inline-four
Displacement	1,137cc
Frame Type	Aluminum beam
Max Torque	88 LB-FT
Weight	491.63 kilos
Top Speed	180 MPH
1/4 Mile Acceleration	10.3 seconds

(Specs sourced from Motorcycle News)

Production Years: 1997 to 2005

2 Yamaha R1

Power Output: 150 HP

The first-gen Yamaha R1 is 25 years previous? Either the design was forward of its occasions or we’re rising previous. Either approach, the R1 was a benchmark superbike when it was released, providing uncooked efficiency and race-like dealing with that was remarkable in different manufacturing bikes of the time. The first-gen Yamaha R1 made no compromises, bringing race bike efficiency to normies like us.

Performance Specs

Engine Type	Inline-four
Displacement	998cc
Frame Type	Aluminum twin-spar
Max Torque	80 LB-FT
Weight	386 kilos
Top Speed	150 MPH
1/4 Mile Acceleration	10.8 seconds

(Specs sourced from Motorcycle News)

Production Years: 1998 to 2003

10 Best Classic American Motorcycles

There’s a a lot deeper historical past to American bikes than simply Harley-Davidson and Indian

1 Suzuki Hayabusa

Power Output: 175 HP

Suzuki GSX1300R Hayabusa — Mecum Auctions

The Honda Super Blackbird was the quickest motorbike of the time, however its glory was short-lived. Enter the Suzuki Hayabusa, arguably probably the most iconic motorbike ever. This motorbike was designed in a wind tunnel, featured a bulletproof, over-engineered engine that might produce ridiculous energy with out stressing out, and was named after the peregrine falcon, a chook that hunts blackbirds.

The Suzuki Hayabusa set a precedent so excessive, it led to the top of race wars and the Gentleman’s Agreement. This bike’s energy output is why most superbikes even today are locked at 186 MPH from the manufacturing unit, even when they’re able to going quicker. The Hayabusa is the king of energy, however it was knocked off its throne by the BMW S 1000 RR in 2014. It might not be the quickest bike right this moment, however it’s nonetheless acquired sufficient grunt to scare probably the most skilled riders.

Performance Specs

Engine Type	Inline-four
Displacement	1,299cc
Frame Type	Aluminum twin-spar
Max Torque	99 LB-FT
Weight	474 kilos
Top Speed	194 MPH
1/4 Mile Acceleration	10.4 seconds

(Specs sourced from Motorcycle News)

Production Years: 1999 to 2007

News

BMW Munich plant to stop ICE automotive manufacturing in 2027

January 11, 2024 David

The BMW plant in Munich will produce solely electric cars from 2027, following a €650 million (£560m) funding to increase and improve the 102-year-old web site.

The German agency has confirmed that it’ll produce the primary of its radical new Neue Klasse EVs – a saloon that can function the next-generation 3 Series – in Munich from 2026.

Initially that automotive will probably be produced on the Bavarian facility alongside ICE fashions, however by the next yr, the plant will probably be absolutely devoted to EVs – though BMW has but to specify which fashions it’ll produce.

The €650m funding has concerned the development of 4 new buildings, together with a brand new car meeting line and a brand new physique store.

To create house for that, combustion engine manufacturing has been moved to Hams Hall within the UK and Steyr in Austria.

The change to EV manufacturing in 2027 will finish 75 years of ICE automotive manufacturing in BMW’s residence city.

The manufacturing unit was opened in 1922 and initially produced bikes till automotive manufacturing moved there from Eisenach in 1952. The first automotive constructed at Munich was the 501.

At current the three Series (together with the Touring property, M3 and plug-in hybrid 330e and 320e fashions) is constructed on the web site, together with the 4 Series Gran Coupé (together with the electrical i4). Munich produces round 1000 vehicles per day.

BMW may even produce Neue Klasse EVs in Debrecen, Hungary, from 2026, and they’ll later be inbuilt Shenyang, China, and San Luis Potosí, Mexico.

Featured

When Is Tesla Coming To India Really? Everything We Know So Far

November 24, 2023 Prafful Singh

Tesla could have a local manufacturing facility set up in the next two years to produce a made-in-India EV

Back in June 2023 – when the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the US – Tesla’s founder, Elon Musk, had met him and confirmed that the EV marque will set foot in India. Fast forward to November and that’s yet to happen but it now seems much more on track. Here’s everything that’s known about Tesla’s India arrival so far:

Possible Reduction In Import Taxes

The discussion around the Indian government’s import rates has been long discussed, which has also been the key reason in the EV maker’s delayed Indian arrival. It now seems that global brands like Tesla could benefit from tax reduction for a period of five years as the Indian government authorities have reportedly agreed upon but only if these EV makers commit to setting up local manufacturing in India.

Local Manufacturing To Be Set Up Soon

There have also been talks about the American EV maker setting up a local manufacturing plant in India within the next two years. Gujarat, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu are the states that are the frontrunners for having the Tesla facility being established, with a reported investment of more than Rs 16,000 crore.

First Few Models To Be Imports

Given the time that Tesla could take to have a manufacturing hub in India, it is quite possible that the EV maker will first start by importing some of its global products here. While it was eyeing bringing electric cars from China, the recent cross-border tensions are likely to push Tesla to import models from its Germany plant.

Also See: Mahindra XUV.e9 Will Share The Same Cabin As The Mahindra XUV.e8

A New EV In The Making

In early 2023, we got to know that there’s a new entry-level electric vehicle being developed by Tesla. This upcoming EV is set to become Tesla’s smallest and most cost-effective model, likely named the ‘Model 2.’ Based on the teaser, it appears to be a tall crossover with a steep roofline and prominent shoulder line. Its design is expected to borrow elements from Tesla’s Model Y and Model 3, the larger models in the lineup.

Which Ones Will Come To India First?

We think models such as the Tesla Model 3 and Tesla Model Y could come to India first via the import route, and both were spied on test a few times already. If reports are to be believed, Tesla could also introduce a small made-in-India EV, which could be priced around the Rs 20-lakh mark (ex-showroom).

When do you want to see Tesla cars on our roads and which one do you think should come first? Let us know in the comments.

Camera Reviews

Lumix G9 II Review: A Great Upgrade for Professional Wildlife Photography

October 14, 2023 David

Despite not having a fan, the G9 II performs well in terms of overheating. This is because smaller sensors produce less heat. The previous model, the S5 II, could only record for 30 minutes in 6K mode, but the G9 II has no such limitations. To test its performance under extreme conditions, the camera was placed in a non-air-conditioned space with an ambient temperature of around 80 degrees Fahrenheit, and various video modes were tested.

In most common resolutions and framerates, the G9 II handles the workload without any issues. It can keep running until the battery dies, which is around 90 minutes with a full charge. Only at the highest resolutions and framerates does overheating become a possibility. After continuous recording, the grip and viewfinder of the camera become uncomfortably hot, and eventually, the camera shuts down to cool down.

The G9 II managed to run for 54 minutes at the maximum 5.8k resolution before overheating. It also performed well at 4K 60, running for a respectable 50 minutes. However, in the case of 4K 120, the camera could only sustain recording for 19 minutes before shutting down. However, in real-world scenarios, 120 FPS is rarely needed for more than a few seconds at a time, so this limitation may not be a significant issue. If you require better cooling, consider upgrading to the GH6 model.

News

10 Best Diesel Motorcycles Of All Time

September 11, 2023 David

In the automotive world, diesel is not an uncommon fuel. Many car manufacturers still produce diesel cars, pickups and trucks, so why has diesel power for motorcycles never taken off? Why have the likes of BMW not ripped the diesel motorcycle market wide open? Diesel engines are fantastically economical, produce massive torque, are simple to maintain, and are generally very reliable.

On the downside, a diesel engine can be quite heavy and environmentally unfriendly, but is that enough to explain why there have been so few diesel-engined motorcycles in history, when you consider all the positives? To celebrate these manufacturers which dared to be different, here is our list of the top diesel-powered motorcycles.

Pulling data directly from manufacturers, historical archives, reputable news organizations and other reliable sources, we’ve put together a list of the best diesel motorcycles ever created.

Updated September 2023: It’s not too often that we get a diesel powered motorcycle, nowadays. But they do appear from time to time, as well as new information unearthed about older models. To keep our readers up to speed on these developments, this article will be updated from time to time.

1 Sommer 462

Sommer-Diesel-grau-Enfield-Rahmen — Andrea-Sommer

It looks like a classic 60s British bike, but the German Sommer 462 is actually available to buy brand-new. Sommer has been building these motorcycles since the early 2000s and if it looks very much like a Royal Enfield, then that is no illusion as the inspiration for the model came from the Royal Enfield diesel model of the late 1990s. When Royal Enfield pulled out of the diesel market due to poor sales, Sommer took up the reins, sourced a 462cc single cylinder diesel engine, installed it into a Royal Enfield frame, and used other RE components.

The engine might only produce 11 horsepower and the top speed is a slightly pedestrian 65mph, but it will do 300 miles on a very tiny tank of diesel! There are four gears in the transmission and the final drive is via belt. The Sommer 462 is handmade in Germany and that pushes the price up to around $13,000, but what you lose in performance, you’ll gain at the pump.

Model Highlights

Classic British bike looks
Modern construction and capabilities
11 hp, 65 mph and 300-mile range.

2 Hero Motorcorp RNT

There seems to be a rule among major manufacturers that any new motorcycle concept has to be as ugly as possible and no one has ever really explained why this should be! Surely you would want to generate as much interest as possible and, while challenging looks might get the bike noticed, it likely as won’t help it sell! Hero Motorcorp is one of the largest producers of motorcycles in the world and the RNT is much more than simply a diesel-powered scooter.

It’s actually a diesel hybrid as it not only comes with a 150cc single-cylinder diesel engine that produces 13.5 horsepower and 26 pound-feet of torque, but also features a 1.3 horsepower electric motor in the front hub, making this a two-wheel-drive scooter. If you can get past the looks, it appears to be rugged and versatile with various luggage-carrying options. The engine can also be used as a generator to provide electricity if you are out in the wild which, of course, you would be on a scooter! There’s no word on whether it will ever make it to production, but if it did, it would be one of the more interesting motorcycles on the road.

Model Highlights

Diesel hybrid, with 150cc single-cylinder engine with 1.3 hp electric front hub motor
13.5 hp, 26 ft-lb of torque
Engine can provide electricity in an emergency

3 Track T800CDI

The Track T800CDI is proof that innovation doesn’t have to equate to ugly or outlandish design, looking for all the world like an adventure bike – a cross between Yamaha and BMW, we’d say – it has a whole dose of real-world practicality, despite its advanced specification. It uses the turbocharged three-cylinder, 800cc engine from the Smart Car, producing 45 horsepower and 78 pound-feet of torque.

Acceleration – not usually a diesel engine’s forté – is brisk at four seconds for 0-60mph and this is accompanied by an excellent 140 miles per gallon gas mileage. Tall suspension, steel trellis frame, and Brembo brakes are all the right ingredients, but none of those features amounted to a successful seller. The company started selling motorcycles in 2009 and reportedly sold 50 examples before stopping production in 2012, presumably so the company could concentrate on developing new models, perhaps in the electric field. A lost opportunity, we’d have to say.

Model Highlights

Turbocharged three-cylinder 800cc engine
45 hp and 78 ft-lb of torque
140 miles to the gallon range

4 Royal Enfield Taurus

1997 Royal Enfield Taurus — Gagan Choudhary via YouTube

Very likely the most famous diesel motorcycle ever produced, and almost certainly the only such bike produced by a major manufacturer. RE produced its own 325cc diesel engine for the bike, which used standard Bullet chassis and running gear. However, despite diesel engine’s reputation for good torque characteristics, it could only muster a weak 6.5 horsepower and 11 pound-feet of torque. That isn’t much to push forward a 432-pound all-in weight.

Despite those flaws, it was able to record up to 200 miles per gallon, even if it would take you all day to do those 200 miles. Top speed for the RE was 40mph. It vibrated badly, but it was rugged, simple, and reliable. The inevitable death knell eventually sounded though, when the Taurus failed to meet India’s emissions regulations. With its luck run down, the Taurus was discontinued in 2000. A brave attempt to do something different and not likely to be repeated.

Model Highlights

Standard Bullet chassis with 325cc diesel engine
200 miles to the gallon range
Top speed of only 40 mph

5 Hayes DT-1 M1030 Military Motorcycle

Is there anything the venerable Kawasaki KLR can’t do? Apparently not, because it is still popular and going strong, despite having little to no significant changes done to it over the many years it’s been in production. But one of the weirder feathers in its cap, was that it became the basis for one of the toughest and most successful diesel machines ever made. A military bike.

Using diesel power for a motorcycle makes sense when talking about military applications. All the usual benefits are there – economy and reliability – combined with, in the case of the Hayes M1030, the ability to run on a variety of fuels – truck diesel, biodiesel, gasoline and even jet fuel. And such adaptability is ideal for a military vehicle, given that you never know what fuel might be available at any one time in the field. The 670cc liquid-cooled engine will propel the bike to 90mph, while returning 96 miles per gallon. The US Marine Corps bought over 400, and they are also used by the British and other NATO forces as well. A civilian model was planned, but the number of military orders prevented that idea from going any further.

Model Highlights

Based on the Kawasaki KLR
Economic and reliable
Able to run on variety of fuels

6 Neander Turbo Diesel

Let’s say money is no object, and you want something different in your garage? Well, the Neander Turbo Diesel might just fit the bill. Produced by Neander Motors, known primarily for manufacturing diesel boat engines, this bike was full of extremes. It had a turbocharged parallel twin, 1,340-cc engine, which generated 112 horsepower and 144 ft-lb of torque. As impressive as that was, it paid dearly for it with weight, which was a rather porky 650 pounds. And because of that, it could only record around 50 miles per gallon.

It was designed as a muscle cruiser, and was considered a premium, going for a low, low price of $133,000! At that level, you’d have to do a lot of mileage to make your money back, but maybe that’s missing the point entirely of this one of a kind machine.

Model Highlights

1,340cc turbocharged parallel twin
112 hp and 144 ft-lb
$133,000 price tag

7 Star Twin ThunderStar 1200 TDI

Star-Twin-Techniek-Diesel-Motor — theautopian.com

It was bound to happen. The performance option! Powered by a Volkswagen 1200cc, three-cylinder turbodiesel engine, the power and torque figures are akin to a modern electric motorcycle, it boasted 180 hp and 250 lb-ft of torque. It was also bristling high-end tech, with top-spec suspension, carbon wheels and Brembo brakes.

Some of the claimed figures were also quite high, as it was slated to do about 140mph, achieving 95 miles per gallon along the way. But the economy wasn’t what the makers had in mind, as this was designed to be a powerful and fast bike. Unfortunately, that dream was ultimately left unfulfilled as it never went into production.

Model Highlights

Volkswagen 1200cc, three-cylinder, turbodiesel engine
Premium features like Brembo brakes, carbon wheels and high-end suspension
Claimed 140 mph top speed

8 Sidney Diesel

The Sidney Diesel of 1950 could very well be the first diesel-powered motorcycle. The brainchild of one Arthur Sidney, he designed his own single-cylinder diesel engine which produced 14 hp, although the top speed was a meager 35mph. As the contemporary BMW R68 would top 100 miles per hour on 35 hp, the Sidney Diesel was very slow and there is no record of what kind of gas mileage it got, although it was surely impressive for the day. However, the gas price wasn’t an issue in the early 50s, maybe the Sidney Diesel was a bike before its time.

Model Highlights

First diesel-powered motorcycle
Single-cylinder diesel engine produced 14 hp
Top speed of only 35 mph

9 Boccardo Aero

Youngtimers Moto Boccardo Aero — Youngtimers Moto Via Facebook

The Boccardo Aero was the brainchild of Louis Boccardo, who used both petrol and diesel engines from the Citroen AX back in 1987. Only five were ever built: two with petrol engines producing 97 horsepower and three with diesel engines, producing 59 horsepower, all using shaft final drive. As with many small-production motorcycles, styling was not the Aero’s strong point, though there’s definitely something familiar and 80s about its looks. The diesel engine produced sufficient torque to make the fitting of a sidecar a logical development. However, it never got past the limited run stage, and like so many other diesel bikes, it was never mass-produced.

Model Highlights

Limited run of only 5 units, 3 of which were diesel powered
59 hp with shaft final drive

10 Sooraj 325

Another Indian diesel-powered motorcycle, the Sooraj Sunbeamer was manufactured between 1990 and 2010. It was not the most attractive bike ever designed, the 325cc single-cylinder diesel engine was serviced by a 20-liter tank which would give the bike an approximate 400-mile range. But judging by its longevity and twenty year production life, and perhaps despite its vintage, if not pedestrian, looks, it must have had its own share of fans.

Model Highlights

Long production run of twenty years
400-mile range
Inexpensive, popular commuter, despite its utilitarian nature

FAQ

Q: Why are there no diesel motorcycles?

Diesel engines tend to be slow revving, noisy and heavy, with a lot of vibration, making them unsuitable for motorcycle installation, where light weight is seen as being of paramount importance.

Q: Does Kawasaki make a diesel motorcycle?

No, there is currently no major motorcycle manufacturer producing diesel production motorcycles.

Q: Is Royal Enfield a diesel?

Royal Enfield did produce a diesel-engined motorcycle in the 1990s, but production had to stop in 2000 when it couldn’t meet emissions regulations.

Q: Are there any diesel motorbikes?

There are, but they are produced in tiny numbers by specialist companies and tend to cost a lot of money.