Spurred by government plans to ban the sale of conventional petroleum fuels for vehicular use by 2035, STEM students from the University of Warwick, U.K., sought to electrify the motorbike.

The result is the Aurora superbike designed by project participants while quarantined during the COVID-19 pandemic, which has put testing and racing plans on hold. However, the design has been finalized with support Students designing the Aurora (pre-pandemic). Source: University of Warwickfrom MUPO Race Suspension, Rock West Composites, Michelin Tyre PLC and other industrial partners.

The superbike includes a 17 kWh oil-cooled battery and a powertrain capable of delivering 150 kW and 400 Nm of torque at an estimated top speed of 160 mph. Other features include a carbon fiber subframe and a 260 kg radiator system constructed to maximize powertrain component cooling.

A primary goal of the team is to compete with a podium qualifying time at the Isle of Man TT 2022. Interested parties can help the effort with donations or sponsorships.