Triumph’s TE-1 electric motorbike is ready for its ‘live testing phase’ to commence.
When Triumph pulled the cover of their TE-1 prototype and electric ambitions, it all looked incredibly exciting. Not only is it built in conjunction with some heavy hitters in the form of Williams Advanced Engineering, Integral Powertrain Ltd and WMG at the University of Warwick, but most importantly the actual bike looked incredibly trick too. And now, Triumph have revealed some pictures of the actual machine, with news that the TE-1 is moving into the next stage of development.
This is because the TE-1 has completed ‘Phase 3’ of its development, which essentially means that the final build of the prototype is complete, and it sounds mightily impressive. As a base, Triumph have sculpted the platform for the TE-1 by supplying the frame, rear sub-frame, panels, wheels, unique prototype Öhlins rear shock, Brembo M50 monobloc callipers, and Triumph motorcycle control software, alongside the final drive system.
Williams have donated its latest TE-1 prototype battery pack unit, which incorporates dedicated cell packaging, alongside integrated cooling, the charging port, and some posh-looking carbon covers. This is finished with the final prototype of the powertrain, equipped with an integrated inverter and cooling system which has all been simulated at the University of Warwick. We’ve got to say, with that Speed Triple-esque appearance it looks absolutely stunning.
Triumph says that the TE-1 either hits or exceeds the benchmarks set for the project, and it now enters Phase 4 of the programme, which is a full time testing phase to take place over the next six months. This will cover everything from calibrating the throttle on a rolling road to track testing the traction control with Triumph’s test riders and should be completed by Summer 2022. After this, we’ll get a clearer picture on the exact specs and performance alongside the chance to see the bike in action.
Nick Bloor, Triumph’s CEO said: “It has been truly exciting to see the progress made during Phase 3 of Project Triumph TE‑1 with the final prototype motorcycle now going into real-life testing. Everyone involved at Triumph are proud to have been part of this innovative British collaboration. Personally, I am thrilled with the results we have already achieved with our partners, and the exciting preview of the potential electric future to come.”
