Four of the world’s most powerful motorcycle makers have signaled their intention of banding together to develop a universal standard for swappable electric motorcycle batteries, in a move that could bring a new level of clarity to how the future will look. Piaggio Group (PIA.MI) has announced that the company has signed a letter of intent with KTM AG, Honda Motor Co., Ltd, and Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd, to set up a swappable batteries consortium for motorcycles and light electric vehicles.

Electric bikes are becoming increasingly convincing mobility tools, whether you’re looking at low-performance scooters for urban use or high-end machines that capitalize on the instant torque and acceleration that electric power offers, but the challenge of recharging remains a significant hurdle. Among those urban users who might benefit most from electric scooters, many don’t have access to garages or off-road parking, making recharging at home impossible, and riders looking to use electric motorcycles for longer, faster trips away from cities are inevitably put off by the limited range and slow recharging of the current crop of machines.

Swappable batteries are potentially the answer for both groups, but for the idea to be a success it’s essential that manufacturers hammer out a standardized battery pack to allow for the setup of widespread infrastructure. Also, by extending the range, shortening the charging time, and lowering vehicle and infrastructure costs, the manufacturers will try to answer customers’ main concerns regarding the future of electromobility. The aim of the Consortium will, therefore, be to define the standardized technical specifications of the swappable battery system for vehicles belonging to the L-category: mopeds, motorcycles, tricycles, and quadricycles.

By creating an alliance to develop standardized swappable motorcycle batteries, Honda, KTM (and its Husqvarna subsidiary), Piaggio, and Yamaha are hoping to speed up that process. By working closely with interested stakeholders and national, European, and international standardization bodies, the founding members of the Consortium will be involved in the creation of international technical standards. The Consortium will start its activities in May 2021. The four founding members encourage all interested stakeholders to join the cooperation to enrich the Consortium’s expertise.