Logo Technologies of U.S. to develop hybrid-electric motorcycle for military special forces 1701151

A prototype of a gas-electric hybrid dirt bike designed to get troops over all types of terrain quickly and stealthily could be ready for tests by the middle of next year.

Logos Technologies announced earlier this month that its work on the SilentHawk "military motorcycle" was progressing at a rapid clip, thanks in part to a second research award from the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency. The program, a partnership between Logos and Alta Motors, began in February, and Logos announced an initial DARPA grant in April.

In almost every way, an electric motorcycle is well suited for military applications. They are quiet, have low heat profiles, emit no exhaust, are simple to operate and incredibly fast. With this in mind Zero Motorcycles developed a military program that is specifically designed to meet the needs of the military applications. Working alongside interested military personnel, Zero Motorcycles is able to deliver a motorcycle that includes the options and accessories required for a successful deployment and mission.

The Zero MMX is designed and built to meet the needs of a wide variety of military applications. It can be customized with a selection of accessories to tailor the motorcycle for a specific type of usage and duty cycle

The vehicle will combine Logos Technologies’ proven, multifuel hybrid-electric power system with a cutting-edge, off-road electric motorcycle platform developed by BRD. This initiative will be the first time that a two-wheel-drive, multifuel hybrid capability has been integrated into a full-size off-road motorcycle.

Operators will benefit from the near-silent capability and ease of operation of an all-electric vehicle, along with the adaptable power generation and extended range of a multifuel internal combustion engine. The bike will also offer the capability to provide supplemental power for electric devices in the field.