Asgard Motors presents first electric quad for French special forces at SOFINS 2025.

At the 2025 edition of the Special Operations Forces Innovation Network Seminar (SOFINS) held in France, the prototype of the Asgard Défense, a brand-new variant of the Éclaireur electric quad developed by Asgard Motors, specifically designed for special forces, was publicly presented for the first time. This marks the debut of a fully electric vehicle tailored for special operations, capable of navigating a variety of terrains while minimizing both environmental and acoustic impact, without compromising operational performance.
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The Asgard Défense is electrically powered, offering a configuration with either a single 20 kW motor (40 kW peak) or two 20 kW motors delivering a combined peak output of 40 kW (equivalent to approximately 110 horsepower). (Picture source: Army Recognition)

The Asgard Défense is electrically powered, offering a configuration with either a single 20 kW motor (40 kW peak) or two 20 kW motors delivering a combined peak output of 40 kW (equivalent to approximately 110 horsepower). It can reach a maximum speed of 90 km/h and emits less than 70 decibels of noise at 60 km/h. The quad features a low thermal signature and a modular battery system that allows an operational range from 100 km to over 300 km, depending on configuration.

In recent years, several startups have developed electric all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), quads, and motorbikes tailored for special forces. For example, British company Fering introduced the Pioneer X, a hybrid tactical vehicle offering a 7,000 km operational range and silent electric operation for up to 80 km, designed for expeditionary missions in remote environments. Similarly, the STRiX electric motorbike, demonstrated to Slovenian special forces, features reduced noise and infrared signatures to enhance stealth. The primary advantages of these electric vehicles include reduced acoustic and thermal signatures for stealthier operations, lower emissions, and decreased reliance on traditional fuel supplies, particularly beneficial for missions requiring extended range and operational flexibility.

Founded in 2014 and headquartered in the Sologne region, Asgard Motors is a French company dedicated to developing and producing electric all-terrain vehicles. The company was officially launched in 2024, ten years after the original concept was conceived by Xavier Thouraud, a native of Sologne. Inspired by the need to traverse forests without disturbing their natural quiet, Thouraud envisioned a silent, non-polluting mobility platform, which ultimately led to the creation of the Éclaireur. The company’s name, “Asgard,” is drawn from Norse mythology and symbolizes strength and innovation, reflecting its commitment to diverging from conventional vehicle manufacturing.

Asgard Motors aims to offer a sustainable alternative to combustion-powered quads. The company focuses on innovation and environmental responsibility, producing vehicles that are not only electric but also efficient, low-maintenance, and multi-purpose. Notable features include multiple charging options, including domestic outlets, solar panels, fuel-based micro-generators, and truck alternators, ensuring operational flexibility in the field.

The company’s flagship model, the Éclaireur, is available in both homologated and non-homologated versions. The homologated T3b variant reaches a top speed of 60 km/h and can tow up to 750 kg on paved roads. The non-homologated version offers enhanced performance, reaching speeds of up to 90 km/h and a towing capacity of up to one tonne (braked) on rough terrain. Both models are equipped with hydrofuge-embroidered seats, two USB 5V ports, integrated winches, tow bars, and onboard chargers.

The vehicle uses a permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) with a nominal output of 14 kW and a peak output of 30 kW, operating at 72V and 450A. This setup delivers a torque of 108 Nm and reaches up to 7,200 RPM at peak. A 72V, 180Ah lithium NMC battery powers the system, offering up to 150 km of range in economy mode and around 75 km in sport mode, suitable for extended use in agriculture, forestry, or military operations. Recharging takes approximately 5 to 6 hours, and the vehicle functions in ambient temperatures ranging from -20°C to 55°C.

Operational advantages include a high energy efficiency rate, nearly 90%, compared to 20–30% typical of combustion engines, and significant reductions in emissions and noise. An Asgard electric quad emits just 0.78 kg of CO₂ per 100 km, compared to 23 kg from conventional equivalents. Noise levels are limited to 66 decibels, making it up to nine times quieter than traditional models, enhancing stealth in both military and ecological environments.

These features have positioned Asgard Motors as an attractive option for both private and professional users. Farmers, foresters, and land management professionals appreciate the vehicle’s low maintenance costs and long-range autonomy. Each quad accommodates two persons and up to 250 kg of combined payload, and is capable of climbing slopes up to 40 degrees. The vehicle supports multiple driving modes, Eco, Sport, and Reverse, and can switch between 2×4, 4×4, and 4×4 with differential lock, depending on terrain conditions.