The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is funding the development of a speedy yet silent hybrid dirt bike for use by American military special operations forces. The fast, all-terrain motorcycle will be fitted with a hybrid drivetrain for maximum range and minimum sound during stealth missions.
The bike is based on BRD Motorcycles' Redshift MX, an all-electric motorcycle. That bike weighs only 250 pounds and is fitted with a liquid-cooled electric motor that produces a top speed of 70 mph.
The bike's powertrain will also function as a portable generator able to supply electric power to military personnel in remote areas.
While this hybrid dirt bike is being developed specifically for military use, BRD Motorcycles says the project could help inform the development of civilian motorcycles in the future.
Stealthy Dirt Bikes
This Silent Hybrid Dirt Bike is Being Built for the US Military
Trend Themes
1. Hybrid Dirt Bikes - Hybrid drivetrains are a promising innovation for dirt bikes, offering potential for increased range and stealth capabilities in various markets beyond the military.
2. Silent Vehicles - Creating silent vehicles that are still speedy, efficient, and practical opens up opportunities for disruptive innovation in various industries, including electric vehicles, transportation, and defense.
3. Portable Power Generation - The ability to use a vehicle's powertrain as a portable generator could have disruptive impacts on various industries, such as camping, remote work, and emergency response.
Industry Implications
1. Military - The development of this silent hybrid dirt bike specifically for military special operations forces highlights the potential for disruptive innovation in military vehicles and technologies.
2. Motorcycles - The project's potential to inform the development of civilian motorcycles suggests disruptive innovation opportunities in various motorcycle markets, including electric and hybrid models.
3. Electric Vehicles - This project demonstrates the potential for hybrid drivetrains to improve range and efficiency in electric vehicles, presenting promising opportunities for innovation in the electric vehicle industry.