Discover why electric motorcycles are less polluting and easier to maintain than combustion-powered motorcycles
Just like in the car market, electric motorcycles are considered a step forward towards a more sustainable future in cities. “They have been gaining visibility for being a cleaner transport alternative”, says Bruno Pieroni, sustainability specialist at iFood —which aims to deliver 50% of your orders in non-polluting modes until 2025.
Electric motorcycles are non-polluting because their engine uses electricity as a source of energy instead of burning fuel. Thus, in addition to not emitting gases from the greenhouse effect, they do not make the same noise as those powered by combustion, also helping to reduce noise pollution in cities.
To run on electricity, this type of motorcycle has a rechargeable battery in place of the tank, to supply the engine. The first step is to plug the battery into a common socket to charge. Then it is ready to be attached to the motorcycle to supply power to the engine.
On an electric motorcycle, when the ignition is started, energy begins to flow from the battery to the engine. The moving parts of the engine transfer the energy received to the sprocket, which drives the belt and makes the rear wheel rotate, moving the motorcycle.
When the motorcycle is moving, the more it accelerates, the more energy is consumed. Therefore, battery life varies depending on use. “The range can range from 100 to 200 km, depending largely on the weight of the riders and the routes. It’s very different to run in flat neighborhoods and where there are a lot of hills”, comments Pieroni.
Electric motorcycle has less maintenance
The electric motorcycle's engine is smaller than the conventional one and is located at the rear (not the front). Another difference is that this engine is less complex than the gasoline or alcohol model, as it has fewer components.
As there is no combustion in the engine, parts such as pistons and cylinders do not exist. “The electric motorcycle doesn’t shake”, adds Pieroni. “As it has no exhaust, it is also safer, because it does not heat up and there is no risk of burns.”
The fact that it has an engine with fewer components means that the electric motorcycle requires less maintenance — and eliminates the use of lubricating oil. Furthermore, electricity does not wear out the motorcycle's components as much as burning fuel, which generates residue on the parts.
