You may know Ural motorcycles as a manufacturer of classic sidecars dating back to World War II days, but the Russian brand is also looking at the future with innovative ideas. So, it comes as no surprise that Ural has unveiled what they say it’s just an idea, created to test public reaction.
The prototype of Ural’s electric sidecar is based on the classic sidecar design, but fitted with advanced electronics and powerful electric motor.
The motor has been donated by Zero Motorcycles, Z-Force 75-7 brushless DC motor that is able to produce almost twice the amount of power that the conventional combustion engine we find on a regular Ural sidecar.
To power this electric motor, Ural also opted to use Zero Motorcycle batteries, a lighter ZF6.5 in the main chassis, and a heavier ZF13.0 under the sidecar seat. Californian design studio ICG was called in to help package the batteries inside the sidecar, and the result is a Ural sidecar that doesn’t lose its classic looks but gets advanced technology inside.
Not only the motor is able to offer a good performance, but Ural also installed some special electronic options so that the rider is able to enjoy the sidecar to its fullest: three riding modes (Sport, Eco and Custom), and just like its petrol powered counterpart, the electric sidecar also uses reverse gear to help the rider maneuver in tight spots.
By toggling a switch on the handlebar, the rider will revert the electric motor and the sidecar will move backwards.
As we said, Ural is just trying to find out if there’s any interest from riders on this type of eco-friendly sidecar. The Russian brand says they don’t have plans to create a production version of this concept, but, as always, if there’s enough demand, Ural will surely be able to build a production version of the electric sidecar.