Wednesday, March 27, 2024

Punch Moto, an electric motorcycle with a weird retro-futuristic design

The design freedom offered by the electric motorcycle quite often leads to spectacular results. This is the case with “Punch Moto” electric motorcycle developed by a Belarusian company Punch Motorcycles, based in Minsk.

Punch Moto has an impressive appearance, with the body being a single solid horizontal plane, which can be described as a long saddle. As if it were a LEGO construction, it mixes cylindrical and cubic shapes painted in different colors to create a striking image. The manufacturer claims to have been inspired by a Russian abstract art movement from the early 20th century called “Suprematist.”

Punch Moto has an impressive appearance
Punch Moto has an impressive appearance. Credit: Punch Motorcycles

The company has developed its own electric motor that drives the Punch Moto. Its nominal power is 15 kW (20 hp), although it is capable of reaching peaks of up to 25 kW (33 hp), which allows it to reach the maximum speed of 120 km/h (75 mph). There is another version with a power limited to 11 kW (15 hp) and a speed limited to 105 km/h (65 mph), to meet European A1 motorcycle license requirements.

It is equipped with detachable and easily portable twin batteries. Credit: Punch Motorcycles
It is equipped with detachable and easily portable twin batteries. Credit: Punch Motorcycles

The electric motorcycle is equipped with detachable and easily portable twin batteries, which have a total capacity of 5 kWh. The battery packs take place on either side of the frame at the front of the engine. The quick-release mechanism allows you to remove-insert the batteries, carry them into the apartment without the risk of sports injury, and put them on recharge from the outlet. They provide autonomy of around 110 km (68 miles) on urban roads per charge. Thus, the motorcycle is completely unsuitable for long-distance travel but can be convenient in the city.

But perhaps the most remarkable thing about Punch Moto is the weird retro-futuristic design. The developers deliberately made the motorcycle angular and consisting of regular geometric shapes. The seat, electronics, and lighting are all part of a two-tone top cylinder. The batteries, in cubic format, the engine, painted red, and the swingarm, formed by a single shock absorber arm, create a clean look in which each component is perfectly distinguished from the others.

The seat, electronics, and lighting are all part of a two-tone top cylinder. Credit: Punch Motorcycles
The seat, electronics, and lighting are all part of a two-tone top cylinder. Credit: Punch Motorcycles

Still, in the development phase, the Punch Moto does not yet have an official price. However, if its route plan is followed, it should be for sale in 2022.