Ducati Tests 'V21L' MotoE Prototype Race Bike
As if any proof were needed that the decision for Ducati to replace Energica as the 'Spec-Bike' provider of choice for the Ducati MotoE bike that takes to the track for the FIM Enel MotoE WorldCup from 2023 had been 'in-play' long before the October 2021 announcement, Ducati press released news that the prototype was already being tested on the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli track before the year was out.
Code-named 'V21L', the electric motorcycle prototype is the result of the joint work of the Ducati Corse team and the Ducati R&D engineers, led by Roberto Canè, Ducati eMobility Director. "It was taken out on track by Michele Pirro, professional rider and Ducati test rider since 2013, who evaluated the technical characteristics and potential of Ducati’s first electric motorcycle."
Roberto Canè is quoted as saying: "We are experiencing a truly extraordinary moment. I find it hard to believe it is reality and still not a dream! The first electric Ducati on the track is exceptional not only for its uniqueness but also for the type of undertaking: challenging both for its performance objectives and for its extremely short timescales, and we are certainly not finished yet, but in the meantime, we have laid an important first 'brick'."
Pirro stated: "Testing the MotoE prototype on the circuit was a great thrill, because it marks the beginning of an important chapter in Ducati history. The bike is light and already has a good balance, and the throttle connection in the first opening phase and the ergonomics are very similar to those of a MotoGP bike.
"If it weren't for the silence and for the fact that in this test, we decided to limit the power output to just 70% of performance, I could easily have imagined that I was riding my bike."
Canè went on to say that "the most important challenges in the development of an electric racing motorcycle remain related to the size, weight and range of the batteries. Ducati's goal is to make electric motorcycles that are characterized by their lightness and high-performance available to all FIM Enel MotoE World Cup participants.
"Additionally, the focus of the project is on the consistency of power delivery during the race and the development of a cooling system that is suitable for the objective. Our experience in the FIM Enel MotoE World Cup will be a fundamental support for product R&D.
"As soon as the technology allows it, the goal is to create a Ducati electric vehicle for road use that is sporty, light, exciting and able to satisfy all enthusiasts."