Royal Enfield, the iconic Indian motorcycle manufacturer, has been spotted testing its first electric vehicle (EV) in the country. Dubbed the “Flying Flea C6,” the electric bike is expected to be a significant milestone for the company, marking its foray into the rapidly growing electric two-wheeler market.
The test mule was caught on camera in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, where Royal Enfield has its manufacturing facility. Although the bike was heavily camouflaged, it’s clear that it’s an electric variant of the company’s popular Bullet model. The absence of an exhaust system and the presence of a battery pack and electric motor are visible giveaways.
The “Flying Flea” nameplate is a nod to Royal Enfield’s rich history, as it was originally used for a lightweight, portable motorcycle produced by the company during World War II. The “C6” suffix is believed to denote the bike’s electric powertrain.
According to sources, the Flying Flea C6 will be powered by a 6 kW electric motor, producing around 8 horsepower. The bike is expected to have a range of approximately 100-150 km on a single charge, making it suitable for urban commuting and short trips.
Royal Enfield has been working on its electric motorcycle project for several years, with reports suggesting that the company has invested heavily in developing its own electric powertrain technology. The Flying Flea C6 is likely to be the first of several electric models from the company, with more variants expected to follow in the future.
The launch of the Flying Flea C6 is expected to take place in the next 12-18 months, with pricing likely to be competitive with other electric two-wheelers in the Indian market. With the Indian government’s push for electric mobility, Royal Enfield’s entry into the EV space is seen as a strategic move to stay ahead of the competition and capitalize on the growing demand for eco-friendly vehicles.
Overall, the Royal Enfield Flying Flea C6 is an exciting development for the Indian automotive industry, and its launch is eagerly anticipated by enthusiasts and potential buyers alike. As the company begins to transition towards electrification, it will be interesting to see how it balances its rich heritage with the need to innovate and adapt to changing market trends.