Energica Ego: Italian 3D Printed Electric Motorcycle to Debut at CES 2016

The new year has not even yet rung in, but excitement has certainly already been revving up for months regarding CES 2016–and with obvious reason. Promising the usual ‘star-studded show,’ this event centers around highlighting the truly revolutionary technology of today and tomorrow. Attracting innovators and enthusiasts from all over the world, this year the event will be held in Las Vegas from January 6th through 9th. And while there’s no doubt we’ll be writing about many of the new items being unveiled, we’ve already got our eyes on something incredibly exciting and sophisticated: the Energica Ego and Eva.

While we’ve seen numerous innovations on two wheels coming off the 3D printer, this is more than just a bike. Offering ‘electric satisfaction,’ this Italian creation not only boasts 3D printed components, but the materials were created by Franco Cevolini himself, president and CEO of Energica. The Ego is already available through international dealers.

Energica is headquartered in Modena, Italy, and is the subsidiary of CRP Group–a company that has been known as a pioneer in motorsports–as well as high tech innovation–for over 45 years. CRP is responsible for the creation of the Windform advanced laser sintering materials which are used to 3D print the Energica Ego motorcycle. From innovative materials to its electric street-fighting stance, the Ego raises the bar overall.

“Italian design is a balance between innovation and tradition. Italian motorcycles have aggressive lines to emphasize their power and speed,” states the team on their website. “The Energica Ego has hawklike eyes and a body shape similar to a wave that is beautiful and dynamic – like the wind. The Ego’s inspiration centers around electricity – it’s born electric. Innovative, dynamic, engaging, intriguing yet powerful.”

This green machine roars to life, dispensing with the idea that it might be quiet due to the electric angle–offering speed from 0 to 100 km/h (or 0 to 60 mph) in less than 3 seconds. Energica stresses that the Ego is a ‘streetbike,’ not a racing bike, however. It can be recharged in outdoor charging stations or at the rider’s home–and that includes the ability to remotely monitor charging with Bluetooth through the new MYEnergica app. Currently, there are over 18,000 charging locations across North America alone.

Energica Prototype with Windform Fairings

Referred to as ‘the Tesla of motorcycles’ by some, the Energica can be customized during the purchasing process. It tops out at 150 mph, and the battery can charge to 80% in just 30 minutes. It also has a cooling system specifically designed for the battery.

“Unlike other vehicles where the control units work separately on all controllers, the Ego’s battery, inverter, charger and ABS are constantly monitored and managed by one technological jewel: the VCU [vehicle control unit] completely designed and developed by Energica,” states the team.

While offering 3D printed fairings, and a ‘green heart,’ this is still a motorcycle with enormous power and ‘razor sharp handling’ — tied together with sleek Italian aesthetics. Offered by the same company that designs and engineers racing vehicles from Formula One to Le Mans, this particular bike is said to take the rider to new heights–and certainly it is doing so with all the newest technologies available.

The Ego will be available in both Matte Pearl White and Matte Black and is expected to retail somewhere between €22,000 to €25,000 ($25,000 to $28,000 USD + taxes). It will be presented at the CRP USA Booth # 72517 — Tech West, Sands Expo Halls A-C during the January 2016 event. Also set for CES is the debut of the new MYEnergica app for Android and iOS, which will allow users to interact digitally with their motorcycles, monitoring performance via smartphone or tablet through communication with the Vehicle Control Unit. Trip data will be collected–including odometer, torque, speed, and battery status–and the app can be used during charging to set power charging as well as to record parking location and determine the nearest charging station.  Discuss this incredible 3D print in the 3D Printed Motorcycle forum thread on 3DPB.com.