The French Army Explores Electric Bikes and Motorcycles for Tactical Operations
The French Army is breaking new ground in military innovation by exploring the potential of electric bikes and motorcycles for tactical operations. This unexpected shift towards electric two-wheelers, typically associated with urban commuting or leisure activities, highlights the versatility and advantages of these vehicles in military contexts.
Silence and high speeds are two crucial factors in military operations, and electric bikes and motorcycles excel in both areas. These vehicles offer high power, ease of use, silence, and impressive range, making them ideal for covert operations. This is not the first time electric bikes have been used in military settings, as Ukraine's use of combat-ready electric bikes demonstrates.
The French Land Force's technical section, Battle Lab Terre, has been conducting tests on the LMX range, which includes the LMX 56 electric bicycle and the LMX 161 electric motorcycle. LMX Bikes, a French-based company known for its high-performance electric two-wheelers, aims to evaluate the practical application of these vehicles in military settings through these tests.
The LMX 56 is a robust off-road e-bike that delivers 2,500 watts of power and 175 Nm of torque. Unlike typical e-mountain bikes, it features a unique dual drivetrain system and a large battery pack, ensuring a range of up to 62 miles on a single charge. On the other hand, the LMX 161 is a lightweight electric motocross bike with 9,000 watts of power, equivalent to 12 horsepower. Its weight is just half that of a traditional gas-powered motorbike, providing agility and efficiency on the battlefield.
These tests conducted by the French Army go beyond simply adopting new technology; they involve rethinking traditional military mobility. Integrating e-mobility into military operations could lead to more sustainable and efficient practices. While the full extent of these tests' outcomes is yet to be seen, they undoubtedly indicate a potential shift towards quieter, cleaner, and possibly more effective tactical military maneuvers.
Pricing and Specifications:
- LMX 56 electric bicycle:
- Power: 2,500 watts
- Torque: 175 Nm
- Range: up to 62 miles on a single charge
- LMX 161 electric motorcycle:
- Power: 9,000 watts (equivalent to 12 horsepower)
- Weight: half that of a traditional gas-powered motorbike
