Royal Enfield announced its entry into the EV space with the launch of new electric motorcycle branded as Flying Flea on November 4 in Milan, aimed to cater to the 250-750cc segment with what the company calls 'city+' mobility.
The category will have the classic-styled Flying Flea C6 and a scrambler-styled Flying Flea S6 - both loaded with connectivity features, Royal Enfield said, both expected by early 2026.
Siddhartha Lal, Managing Director, Eicher Motors said, "This is a significant step in our evolution as a brand and an opportunity for us to distil the essence of Royal Enfield DNA combined with all the great benefits of EV technology and bring something absolutely delightful and differentiated to the world of city-plus mobility." The Flying Flea brand represents Royal Enfield's vision for electric urban and city+ motorcycles, aimed for the global market, Royal Enfield added.
Earlier, the teaser on the website had shown a bike airlifted by a parachute, ready for a drop, with November 4, 2024 date mentioned along with it. The reference to paradropping of the bike has a strong historical connect with World War II that saw Allied forces deploy motorcycles via parachute, for troops needing fast, mobile transportation upon landing. Called 'The Royal Enfield Flying Flea', the lightweight motorcycle developed during World War II for this purpose was later sold to civilians after the war.
"This lightness, agility and adaptability returns with the Flying Flea brand and its upcoming range of electric vehicles", said Royal Enfield.
B Govindarajan, CEO of Royal Enfield added, "We’ve been deeply investing in R&D and infrastructure for EV over the last many years, and have built a world-class team including 200+ engineers in India and the UK. We have also initiated the development of an EV manufacturing plant in Chennai, India."
Mario Alvisi, Chief Growth Officer - Electric Vehicles for Royal Enfield called the Flying Flea a fresh start for the company, "When we say this is a city+ platform, this is to say Flying Flea allows riders to break free to and from the city with a truly moving and visceral riding experience."
This will be the first bike based on the core pillars of the Flying Flea brand, said Royal Enfield.
Design: The Flying Flea motorcycle combines vintage design that is says is 'retro-futuristic', including a unique girder fork and a lightweight aluminium frame with magnesium battery case and dynamic fin design.
Technology: With 28 new patents, this bike integrates a central Vehicle Control Unit (VCU) that enables over 2 lakh ride mode combinations, continuous monitoring, and Over-the-Air updates. It also features phone-as-key technology and custom ride adjustments.
Ride Quality: RE claims the bike is designed for all skill levels, offering seamless acceleration, lean-angle ABS, and easy city and highway riding with cruise control and fast charging, making it versatile and user-friendly.
Eicher Motors is preparing for a future where internal combustion engines (ICE) and electric vehicles (EVs) will coexist, CMD Siddhartha Lal had said in July. “Electric vehicles, alternative fuels, and ICE vehicles will need to exist alongside each other in the coming years," he said. "Our success will depend on striking a strategic balance across our portfolio to serve current markets while staying adaptable. Both Royal Enfield and VECV are well-suited to navigate this evolving landscape.”
The first model under Flying Flea brand to hit the road next year will be the FF-C6, the company said.
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