ZERO MOTORCYCLES ANNOUNCES THE ZERO XU AS SURPRISE FIFTH ELECTRIC MOTORCYCLE MODEL FOR 2011

I received the following press release from Zero this morning. They'd recently unveiled the 2011 product line with updated versions of the X/MX/S/DS. This release covers a new bike, which appears to be a street legal version of the X. Unlike the S/DS (which doesn't have swappable battery packs) this one has a swappable battery pack (like the X/MX).

The Zero XU starts at $7,995 MSRP. A Federal tax credit can be applied if purchased with a second power pack. Some countries or states may offer other incentives. To secure an order and take advantage of the current Federal incentive while it lasts, the Zero XU can be purchased online now and will begin shipping in the United States during mid-March. It comes with a 2-year limited warranty. Price does not include local shipping, applicable taxes, PDI and road registration fees.

Motor
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Type High Efficiency, Air Cooled, Radial Flux Permanent Magnet
Top Speed 51 mph (82 km/h)

Power System
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Type Z-Force™ Patented Li-Ion Intelligent Power Pack
Maximum capacity 2 kWh
Nominal capacity 1.7 kWh
Estimated power pack life (to 80% capacity) 32,000 miles (52,000 km)
Charger type Integrated
Recharge time (standard) 2 hours
Quick recharge time (option) 1.2 hours (full) / 1 hour (+90% capacity)
Input Standard 110V or 220V

Range
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Maximum 30 miles (48 km)
EPA UDDS 25 miles (40 km)

Drive Train
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Transmission Clutchless one speed
Drive system 61T / 13T, 420 chain

CHASSIS/SUSPENSION/BRAKES
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Front suspension travel 5.31 inches (135 mm)
Rear suspension travel 5.5 inches (140 mm)
Front brakes 2 piston hydraulic, 8.66x0.16 inch (220x4 mm) disc
Rear brakes 1 piston hydraulic, 8.66x0.16 inch (220x4 mm) disc
Front tire 90/90-19
Rear tire 110/90-16
Front wheel 1.85x19 inches (4.7x48.3 cm)
Rear wheel 2.15x16 inches (5.5x40.6 cm)

DIMENSIONS
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Wheel base 54.3 inches (138 cm)
Seat height (standard) 31.8 inches (80.8 cm)
Low seat height (option) 29.8 inches (75.7 cm)
Rake 24.2 degrees
Trail 3.3 inches (83 mm)

WEIGHT
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Frame 14.8 pounds (6.7 kg)
Curb weight 218 pounds (99 kg)
GVWR 468 pounds (212 kg)
Carrying capacity 250 pounds (113 kg)

Economy
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Typical cost to recharge $0.21

The XU will have the J1772 "fast charge" option that's new for 2011.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ZERO MOTORCYCLES ANNOUNCES THE ZERO XU AS SURPRISE FIFTH ELECTRIC MOTORCYCLE MODEL FOR 2011

-- ‘Urban Crosser’ Becomes First Street Motorcycle with a Removable Power Pack for Riders without Access to Street Level Charging --

SANTA CRUZ, Calif., (March 1, 2011) – Zero Motorcycles, the global leader in the electric motorcycle industry, today announced the Zero XU. A new model for the company, it marks the fifth to be added to the product line. With instant torque from zero rpm, no shifting, a low weight, a low seat height and a removable power pack, the Zero XU is designed to be the ideal electric motorcycle for those who live in the city. It leverages the time-tested Zero X off-road platform for durability and features a complete set of specialized street gear that is highlighted by a stylish new body.

Bringing Zero Motorcycles’ product offerings to a new population, the Zero XU is the world’s first street motorcycle that enables owners to essentially charge anywhere by way of a removable power pack and optional stand-alone charger. This opens the doors to interested buyers who do not have access to garage or street level charging at their homes or apartments. The removable pack also allows for essentially nonstop usage by enabling individuals, or fleets, to quickly swap power packs. As with all Zero Motorcycles products, the Zero XU is offered with a quick-charge option that cuts the recharge time down by approximately fifty percent to one hour. The additional charger that enables quick-charging can also be used to charge the power pack separately from the motorcycle. Those who own a 2011 Zero X or Zero MX can use their power packs interchangeably with the new Zero XU.

“We’re excited to announce our fifth model for 2011. The Zero XU is ideal for those living and working in a city,” said Gene Banman, CEO of Zero Motorcycles. “With no shifting, quiet operation, comfortable ergonomics and optional onboard storage, riders of all experience levels are able to focus on simply enjoying the ride. Add to that the ability to remove the power pack and the Zero XU becomes the ultimate urban crosser.”

The Zero XU starts at $7,995 MSRP. A federal tax credit can be applied if purchased with a second power pack. Some countries or states may offer other incentives. To secure an order and take advantage of the current federal incentive while it lasts, the Zero XU can be purchased online now and will begin shipping in the United States during mid-March. It comes with a two-year limited warranty. Price does not include local shipping, applicable taxes, PDI and road registration fees.

About Zero Motorcycles
Zero Motorcycles is committed to transforming the motorcycling experience by bringing to market highly innovative electric motorcycles that offer exceptional value and performance. Zero is powered by innovation, driven by passion, guided by integrity and measured by results. Through extensive research, insight and experience, Zero combines the art and science of motorcycle development to create and manufacture products that excite consumers and inspire brand loyalty. Zero is determined to be the preeminent global electric motorcycle company.

FOR MEDIA: For more information, contact (951) 719-1040, media [at] zeromotorcycles.com

For press information, videos and photos go to http://www.zeromotorcycles.com/press

For more information on Zero Motorcycles or to learn more about its complete motorcycle line including the Zero S, Zero DS, Zero XU, Zero MX and Zero X motorcycles, visit: http://www.zeromotorcycles.com.