With a revolution towards electric motorcycles on the way, which companies are best positioned to take advantage of the transition? A new Pike Pulse Report from Pike Research has investigated the issue.
It suggests that the market for electric motorcycles and electric scooters is primed to expand everywhere but that the Asia-Pacific region is leading the way with sales there estimated at 17million in 2011 compared to just over 30,000 in the rest of the world combined. However, with the market on the verge of competitive changes and large vendors such as Honda and KTM entering the market, it has been necessary for several companies to radically revise their business plans and develop new products.
According to Pike, with the market in its infancy, no manufacturers can be considered real leaders in the rankings – although none are followers either. Currently, the market is being held back by its distribution channel and the fact that large, international original equipment manufacturers are only just starting to test their electric products – when they enter the market it should be shaken up significantly.
Nevertheless, it offers its highest ranking to Zero Motorcycles, which it states boasts strong strategic planning and good execution. Its product line-up is well-suited to the less cost-conscious early adopter market and it has a network of dealers across several regions.
Also ranking highly is Jiangsu Xinri E-Vehicle, which has a deeply contrasting business plan. Its market has been grown for e-scooters with a wide variety of models based on what consumers in China want today. It has also enjoyed some success with exports across Asia-Pacific, as well as to North America, Eastern Europe, Africa, Latin America and the Middle East.
