Following in the footsteps of Formula E, in 2019 the FIM (or Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme) held its inaugural season of the Enel MotoE World Cup — an all-electric MotoGP class with 18 riders from 11 teams. For the first four seasons of the MotoE Cup, Italian marque Energica has acted as the sole supplier to the series with modified, track-ready versions of the firm’s flagship superbike known as the Ego Corsa. However, for the 2023 season, Ducati will be replacing Energica as the motorcycle supplier for the spec series. And after previously showing off sketches of its MotoE race bike back in October, Ducati has now revealed the first-ever images of its forthcoming spec-series e-bike.
Code-named the “V21L,” this prototype racer presumably features a proprietary powertrain that comes cloaked in a full-set of GP-style carbon fiber bodywork that includes a widened, Panigale-style nose and front fairing and a tail section based on Ducati’s current MotoGP bike. Other details include a full suite of race-grade running gear including top-shelf Ohlins suspension and Brembo brakes. Thus far Ducati has limited the power output of the V21L to just 70% of its true capabilities, though the firm aims to unlock more power as time goes on. Helping to assist with the development and testing of the machine is noted racer, former Ducati MotoGP pilot, and current Italian WSBK competitor Michele Pirro — who has served as Ducati’s official test rider since 2013.
Ducati has also stated that it plans on taking lessons learned from its MotoE bike and applying them to the research and development of its first-ever road-going, all-electric production model — a motorcycle that Ducati’s CEO has stated is scheduled to debut sometime in 2025.
