Airbus Steps Into Electric Motorcycle Market With Ultra-Light 3D-Printed Light Rider
Airbus has officially introduced the APWorks Light Rider, a groundbreaking electric motorcycle created by its subsidiary APWorks. Designed using aerospace-grade manufacturing methods and a revolutionary 3D-printed frame, the Light Rider showcases the future of ultra-lightweight electric mobility.
The Light Rider is not just a design study but a fully functional, everyday electric motorcycle. Weighing only 35 kg, it is one of the lightest production e-motorcycles ever created.
Key Facts & Specifications
| Parameter | APWorks Light Rider |
|---|---|
| Weight | 35 kg total, 6 kg frame |
| Frame Material | Scalmalloy (Al-Mg-Sc aerospace alloy) |
| Power Output | 6 kW |
| Torque | 130 Nm |
| 0–45 km/h | ≈ 3 seconds |
| Top Speed | 80 km/h |
| Range | ≈ 60 km |
| Price | $56,000 |
| Production | Limited to 50 units |
Design and Structure
The standout feature of the Light Rider is its 3D-printed exoskeleton frame. Instead of welded tubes, the structure is grown layer-by-layer using Scalmalloy, a patented aerospace alloy developed by APWorks. This material is stronger than conventional aluminum alloys and allows engineers to create hollow internal channels to hide wiring and cables for a clean, futuristic look.
The frame was shaped using a bionic optimization algorithm, inspired by natural bone structures. This reduces weight by up to 30% compared to traditional high-end e-motorcycle frames.
Image ALT: “APWorks Light Rider 3D-printed electric motorcycle frame”
Technology and Performance
Key technological highlights:
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In-frame electric motor with chain drive (not hub-based)
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High torque output (130 Nm) ensures strong acceleration
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Replaceable battery module for convenience
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Quality suspension and disc brakes on both wheels
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LED front and rear lighting integrated into the minimalistic design
While performance numbers are modest, the Light Rider is designed primarily to demonstrate future aerospace manufacturing applied to motorcycles.
Market Position and Competitors
The Light Rider occupies a unique space in the electric motorcycle market. It is not built to outperform sport e-bikes, but rather to showcase:
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Advanced aerospace materials
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3D-printed load-bearing structures
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Ultra-low weight vehicle construction
This places it closer to high-tech boutique bikes than mass-market electric motorcycles like Zero SR/F or Cake Kalk.
Price and Availability
The APWorks Light Rider will be produced in a very limited run of 50 units, with a retail price of $56,000 per motorcycle.
Pre-orders are being accepted internationally, and each unit is made to order.
Conclusion
The APWorks Light Rider is a milestone in electric motorcycle engineering. With its 3D-printed Scalmalloy frame, ultra-lightweight design, and bionic structure optimization, it demonstrates how aerospace manufacturing can reshape personal mobility. Although the price is steep and the production run is extremely limited, the Light Rider will undoubtedly attract collectors and technology enthusiasts.
FAQ
When will the APWorks Light Rider be released?
Deliveries are planned for the initial limited production run soon after order confirmation.
How much does the Light Rider cost?
The starting price is $56,000.
What is the riding range?
The estimated range per charge is around 60 km.