Royal Enfield is Expected to Go Electric with a New Launch Scheduled Today

At this week's EICMA show in Italy, Royal Enfield is getting ready to introduce a new line of electric motorcycles on November 4—the first for the two-wheeler manufacturer.

This new line of electric two-wheelers from Royal Enfield, according to their website, responds to the demand for "urban mobility offering a sophisticated, nimble and connected experience."

Additionally, the RE reassured its clientele that the brand's "commitment to purity remains" despite technological advancements.

A bike flown by a parachute and prepared for a drop is included in the website's teaser, which also includes the date November 4, 2024. Motorcycle paradropping has a strong historical connection to World War II, when Allied forces used motorbikes to transport troops who needed quick, transportable transportation after landing. Developed for this purpose during World War II, the lightweight motorcycle was dubbed 'The Royal Enfield Flying Flea' and offered to civilians after the war. With its introduction this week, it is unclear if Royal Enfield will bring the brand back to life.

With a product plan and roadmap, Royal Enfield expedited its EV journey in FY24. The company also announced ambitions to develop an electric motorcycle strategy that included branding and distribution. Last year's EICMA Motor Show included a design concept called the Electric Himalayan Testbed, which gave a preview of the company's potential future electric offering.

As Royal Enfield has stated, "Electric Himalayan Test Bed has opened up completely new possibilities and capabilities," the idea "shall continue to live a hard life, not going into production." It's unclear whether this means more testing to set the groundwork for its upcoming line of electric two-wheelers. The first e-2W from Royal Enfield in its 123-year history, the Electric Himalayan Testbed represents the company's sustainable future vision.

Siddarth Lal, CMD of Eicher Motors, stated "In the upcoming years, internal combustion engines, alternative fuels, and electric vehicles will need to cohabit. Strategic portfolio balancing to suit current markets while maintaining flexibility to adjust to change will be essential to our success. VECV and Royal Enfield are both in a strong position to handle this change."

Lal previously stated that the company is aiming for a 2025 launch and that RE's EVs will be disruptive. "It's not about putting something in with the intention of outperforming or taking on another competitor. When it comes to EVs, we're working toward a completely different paradigm. Creating something truly amazing takes time", Lal remarked.