TTXGP - The Zero Emissions Grand Prix

Dubbed "The eGrandPrix," the TTXGP pits zero emissions motorcycles in racing competition on top international tracks. The series was first introduced in 2009, and in 2010, it now has three simultaneous championships running in Italy (and Southern Europe), the UK (and Northern Europe), and North America.  The fastest eight teams from each regional championship will qualify to race in the Grand Finals, which will be held October 23-24 in Albacete, Spain.

All four North American championship races have now been completed.  They included:

1. Infineon Raceway, CA: May 14-16
2. Road America, WI: June 3-6
3. Mosport International, Canada: July 8-11
4. Virginia International Raceway, VA: August 13-15

The North American teams include:

• Team Agni
• Zero Agni
• Lightning Motorcycles/A&A Racing
• Electra Racing Team
• Electric Race Bikes
• Empirical ElectricK Squared Racing
• ElectricMotorsport.com
• Square Wave Racing
• SWIGZ.Com Pro Racing
• Pril Motors
• Volt motors
• Werkstatt Racing

There are some names in the list that you probably recognize, especially if you are have been closely following the market for electric motorcycles. The second team on the list, for instance, has partnered with Zero Motorcycles, who produces frames on their production bikes that weigh just 13-18 pounds -- that's not a heck of a lot more than your average bicycle!

Electric Superbikes

Interested in putting together a team and making a go of next year's TTXGP championship? If so, the company Mavizen actually sells a race-ready electric superbike, the TTX02 -- the first of its kind. It has a swappable drivetrain and Linux-based core operating system with USB-based plug 'n play capabilities. The prototype upon which this bike is based actually won the inaugural 2009 TTXGP.

Another company, CA-based Mission Motors, is allowing people to put down a deposit for one of 50 numbered units of their racing bike, the Mission One, to be delivered sometime in 2010. This bike boasts 100 lb-feet of torque and a 150 mph top speed.

Electric Motorcycles for the Street

There are now quite a few options for those who want to buy a street legal electric motorcycle. Best Buy, for instance, has now partnered with Brammo to sell the Brammo Enertia through certain locations. Quantya has brought to market their STRADA, a dual-sport electric with a 48V motor and range of 25-30 miles. Either of these may serve as great motorcycles for novice riders, as they are relatively lightweight and low in power. Power in both is delivered via a single-speed transmission, negating the necessity to manipulate a clutch and foot shifter for switching gears.

Surely the race-only offerings from companies like Mavizen and Mission Motors will ultimately trickle down into lean, mean, and GREEN streetbikes we can all be excited about.