Zapp owner of a UK-based, high-performance two-wheeler electric vehicle brand, today announced it has been granted European patents for two components of its i300 electric urban motorcycle, which it anticipates will be ready for its first customer deliveries later this year.
The recognition from the European Patent Office relates to the i300’s Z-shaped exoskeleton and removable front fender. The grant of the patents highlights the innovative nature of the technology developed by Zapp to support the brand’s strategic vision, which encompasses the highest standards of design, performance, sustainability, manufacturing, and customer experience.
Zapp’s distinctive exoskeleton consists of two single-piece Z-shaped anodised aluminium components mounted on an underbone. It delivers a revolution in motorcycle chassis technology, and is central to the i300’s unique ability to combine the performance and dynamic handling of a motorbike with the step-through convenience of a scooter. The exoskeleton also endows the brand with its award-winning design language.
The fully recyclable Zapp exoskeleton solution provides numerous technical, sustainability, and commercial benefits. The two single-piece Z-shaped exoskeleton components replace a conventional-styled frame, which uses multiple connected tubes and welding points, allowing the vehicle to have a lower centre of gravity and lower weight, enhancing both handling and safety. The exoskeleton reduces the number of assembly components and also frees up space under the seat for storage. The Company believes the exoskeleton provides an ideal platform on which to base additional models and derivatives without significant additional investment.
Zapp’s second European patented component is the i300’s removable front fender, which brings a unique, almost infinite range of colourway personalisation options to the two-wheel sector for the first time. At any point after purchasing their i300, customers will be able to have the front fenders removed and replaced with new items in a colour of their choice. The personalisation upgrade will be carried out by an authorised ‘Zapper’ who will come to the customer’s home or workplace in a branded Zapp van, and perform the exchange. Going forwards, Zapp plans to collaborate with artists and leading cultural figures to create limited colourway collections.
The European patents (EP4058343 – ‘A seat-supporting structure for mounting on a motorcycle frame’ and EP4051563 – ‘Front fairing for a scooter’) further reinforce the world-class technology and design credentials of Zapp and its debut product, the #i300carbon, which is now available to pre-order on Zapp’s website www.zappev.com.
