Zero Motorcycles introduced its ‘All Access’ plan at EICMA 2024, launching two new electric motorcycles priced under $10,000. The initiative includes the Zero XE and Zero XB models, with four additional models planned for release within two years.
Technical Specifications and Performance Metrics
Zero XE ($6,495)
- Battery: 4.3 kWh removable system
- Motor Output: 21 hp (15.5 kW)
- Peak Torque: 468 lb.ft (634.5 Nm)
- Top Speed: 53 mph (85 km/h)
- Range: 65 miles (104 km)
- Charging Time: 5.5 hours (0-100%)
- Weight: 223 lb (101 kg)
- Suspension Travel: 7.9+ inches (front and rear)
- Brakes: 240mm front, 220mm rear disc
- Wheel Configuration: 21-inch front, 18-inch rear
Zero XB ($4,195)
- Battery: 2.4 kWh removable system
- Motor Output: 10 hp (7.5 kW)
- Peak Torque: 275 lb.ft (372 Nm)
- Top Speed: 28 mph (45 km/h)
- Range: 47 miles (75 km)
- Charging Time: 3 hours (0-100%)
- Weight: 139 lb (63 kg)
- Suspension Travel: 5.9 inches (adjustable)
- Wheel Configuration: 19-inch front and rear
- Brake System: Single-petal rotors
Core Features (Both Models)
- LED lighting systems
- Dual USB charging ports
- Premium switchgear
- 2.5-inch TFT instrument cluster
- Precision throttle mapping
- Fully adjustable suspension
Market Context and Development
Zero’s partnership with Zongshen enables competitive pricing while maintaining quality standards. The collaboration combines Zongshen’s cost-effective manufacturing capabilities with Zero’s expertise in suspension tuning, user interface design, and throttle response optimization.
CEO Sam Paschel stated: “Our mission from day one has been to revolutionize the two-wheeled transportation industry, and we will stop at nothing to deliver on that promise to our growing global community of riders.”
Regulatory Status
- XE: Street-legal in Europe, off-road only in US
- XB: Street-legal in Europe, off-road only in US
Future Development: Neutrino Concept
- Estimated Weight: 300 lb (136 kg)
- Projected Power: 19 hp
- Target Range: 75 miles (120 km)
- Expected Top Speed: 65 mph (105 km/h)
- Anticipated Price: Under $8,000
- Notable Feature: Planned onboard charging system
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Market Analysis
The electric motorcycle sector shows a projected 12% CAGR over the next five years. Zero’s entry into the sub-$10,000 segment addresses accessibility concerns in the North American market, where electric motorcycles typically command premium prices.
The X line targets the growing off-road electric segment, competing with established models from Sur-Ron and Talaria while offering Zero’s proprietary suspension tuning and interface design. The partnership with Zongshen enables competitive pricing while maintaining Zero’s technical standards in motor control and power delivery systems.
Technical Design Elements
Both models feature purpose-built frames with integrated battery compartments, allowing tool-free battery removal. The suspension systems utilize adjustable compression and rebound damping, with the XE offering additional high-speed compression adjustment capability.
The thermal management systems employ passive cooling for the motor and active cooling for the battery pack, optimizing performance in various riding conditions. The regenerative braking system integrates with the mechanical disc brakes, providing both energy recovery and controlled deceleration.