Jaguar Land Rover invests in Arc

Automotive group Jaguar Land Rover is investing in electric motorcycles, sort of.

The automotive group’s venture capital fund has invested in Arc. Never heard of them before? Neither have we, but according to the presser, it’s “the world’s first fully-electric motorcycle with Human Machine Interface (HMI). Arc Vector is the most advanced electric motorcycle ever brought to market, using exotic materials, thoroughbred componentry and cutting-edge architecture, wrapped in a futuristic body.”

What does this actually mean? Looking elsewhere, we found the following details: the Arc Vector was unveiled at EICMA, and has a top speed rating of 241 km/h. It’s supposed to do 0-60 mph in 2.7 seconds, with a 193-km highway range and 274-km city range. If those numbers are correct, that would certainly put this machine in contention for the title of one of the top performing battery bikes on the market.

Also, the motorcycle will come with a helmet integrated with the bike via a heads-up display, and what Arc calls “haptic ride-wear.” Not only will riding this motorcycle give you a buzz, so will the riding gear that comes with it, apparently.

Alas, as pricing is rated at about $155,000 CAD and only 355 of these will be built, it doesn’t matter how great the bike is, as very few will be able to afford it. But hey, that’s no surprise, as look who invested in the company—Jaguar Land Rover isn’t known for mass-market vehicle production.

See the official press release below:

INMOTION VENTURES INVESTS IN ARC VECTOR – THE WORLD’S MOST ADVANCED ELECTRIC MOTORCYCLE
● Arc has pioneered Vector, the most efficient, safest and most fulfilling electric motorcycle experience yet ● Vector will be revealed in Milan on 6 November ● Vector comes with ground breaking haptic ride-wear and connected HUD helmet

06 November 2018, London – InMotion Ventures, Jaguar Land Rover’s venture capital fund, today announces its investment in Arc, which today unveils ‘Vector’ – the world’s first fully-electric motorcycle with Human Machine Interface (HMI). Arc Vector is the most advanced electric motorcycle ever brought to market, using exotic materials, thoroughbred componentry and cutting-edge architecture, wrapped in a futuristic body.

The investment from InMotion Ventures, along with Mercia Fund Managers, the Proof of Concept & Early Stage Fund which is part of the Midlands Engine Investment Fund, and a number of industry specialist angels, will support Arc with its global ambition for Vector to be the cleanest, safest, and most fulfilling motorcycle on the road.

The brand new bike, will be revealed at the Milan Motorcycle Show today. The Arc show stand will showcase the brand, along with the bike itself and its ground breaking intelligent haptic ride-wear and connected Heads-Up Display helmet. A virtual reality ride experience will also be available for attendees.

The Arc team consists of industry-leading professionals, coming together to develop and build an all-new experience on two wheels.

Mark Truman, Founder & CEO, Arc, said: “Our aim has always been to bring technology, performance and safety together to create an entirely new two-wheeled experience. Vector isn’t just a motorbike; it’s the world’s first fully-electric café racer, it’s an innovative heads-up display helmet and it’s a sensory riding suit – all working in unison to create an experience package like no other. We’re delighted to get the support of InMotion for this exciting launch phase. The team shares our vision and we’re looking forward to working together and creating more ground breaking products.”

Sebastian Peck, Managing Director, InMotion Ventures, said: “Electric vehicles are pivotal for the future of urban mobility, helping people travel through cities quickly and cleanly as possible. We want to make sure that we’re not only changing the way people move but delivering unparalleled outdoor experiences while doing so. With Arc’s technology and vision, the Vector is an incredible development in the next generation of motorcycle travel.”