The Arc Vector Electric Motorcycle stands as a revolutionary milestone in electric motorcycle engineering, combining cutting-edge technology with British craftsmanship to create what many consider the world’s most advanced electric motorcycle. Hand-crafted in the UK and designed without the constraints of traditional combustion engines, this premium electric superbike represents the future of two-wheeled transportation with its carbon-fiber construction, innovative hub-center steering, and impressive performance metrics. This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about the Arc Vector, from its technical specifications and performance capabilities to its availability and real-world riding experience.
The Evolution of Arc Vector: From Concept to Reality
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The journey of the arc vector electric motorcycle began at EICMA (Milan Motorcycle Show) in 2018, where it stunned the motorcycling world with its futuristic design and ambitious performance claims. What many dismissed as merely a concept has become a tangible reality, despite the company’s turbulent history.
A Brief Timeline of Arc’s Journey
- 2018: Initial unveiling at EICMA Milan
- 2019: Arc Vehicle goes into administration when key investors withdrew
- 2020-2022: Company restructuring and development
- 2023: First production models delivered to customers
- 2025: Continued refinement and limited production runs
The Vector represents more than just an electric motorcycle; it’s a statement of what’s possible when designers start with a blank canvas, free from the limitations of traditional motorcycle architecture. CEO Mark Truman envisioned creating a bike unrestrained by noise regulations, emissions requirements, exhaust routing, and the myriad other constraints that define conventional motorcycles.
Revolutionary Design & Engineering
The Arc Vector’s design philosophy centers around its revolutionary monocoque battery structure, which serves as both the power source and the structural framework of the motorcycle.
Carbon Fiber Construction
The Vector features extensive use of carbon fiber throughout its construction, including:
- Carbon fiber swingarms (front and rear)
- Carbon fiber seat unit
- BST carbon fiber wheels
- Lightweight carbon composite battery structure
Hub-Center Steering System
One of the Vector’s most distinctive features is its hub-center steering system, which provides several advantages over conventional telescopic forks:
- Allows for an extremely steep 20-degree head angle (compared to 24-25 degrees on conventional sport bikes)
- Front shock pivot point positioned below the wheel spindle
- Permits controlled front-end dive during braking
- Enables lighter spring rates while maintaining stability
This innovative steering system contributes to the Vector’s exceptional handling characteristics while setting it apart visually from other motorcycles on the market.
Arc Vector Performance Specifications
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The Arc Vector delivers exceptional performance metrics that position it among the elite superbikes, regardless of power source.
Key Performance Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Motor | 399V electric motor |
| Power Output | 117-133 bhp (87-95 kW) |
| Torque | 148 Nm (109 lb-ft) |
| Top Speed | 200 km/h (124 mph) – electronically limited |
| Acceleration | 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 3.2-3.4 seconds |
| Weight | 220-240 kg (485-529 lbs) |
| Frame Type | Monocoque battery housing |
| Transmission | Single-speed direct drive |
| Drive System | Belt drive |
The Vector’s impressive power-to-weight ratio of approximately 650 hp per ton helps explain its exceptional acceleration capabilities, rivaling or exceeding many high-performance combustion motorcycles.
Battery Technology & Range
At the heart of the Arc Vector is its cutting-edge battery technology, representing some of the most advanced energy storage solutions available in any production vehicle.
Battery Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 16.8 kWh Samsung cells |
| Urban Range | Up to 436 km (271 miles) |
| Highway Range | 120-200 km (75-124 miles) |
| Combined Range | 270-435 km (168-270 miles) |
| Battery Type | Modular monocoque design |
| Cell Technology | High-density Samsung cells |
Arc has claimed the Vector is the first motorcycle manufacturer to use certain cutting-edge battery cell technology, allowing for the impressive range figures in a relatively lightweight package.
Charging Capabilities
| Charging Method | Time | Range Added |
|---|---|---|
| CCS Fast Charging | 40 minutes (0-100%) | 225 km (140 miles) |
| Standard Charging | Not specified | Not specified |
The Vector utilizes the global standard CCS charging interface, ensuring compatibility with existing charging infrastructure while providing impressively quick charging times compared to many other electric vehicles.
Handling & Componentry
The Arc Vector combines innovative engineering with premium components to deliver a superlative riding experience.
Premium Components
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Front Brakes | Brembo Stylema calipers |
| Suspension | Custom Öhlins dampers |
| Wheels | BST carbon fiber |
| Tires | Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV Corsa; 120/70R-17 / 180/55R-17 |
| Wheelbase | 1,450 mm (57.1 in) |
| Seat Height | 830 mm (32.5 in) |
The combination of these high-end components with the innovative frame and steering design results in a motorcycle that handles unlike any other, offering precision control alongside comfort and stability.
Pricing & Availability
The Arc Vector price represents the premium end of the motorcycle market, with a price tag that reflects its exclusivity and advanced technology.
Regional Pricing Guide
| Region | Approximate Price (2025) |
|---|---|
| United Kingdom | £90,000-110,000 |
| United States | $117,500+ |
| Europe | €105,700+ |
| India | ₹80,00,000+ |
Production & Availability
Arc’s production plan originally called for 399 units to be built in the first 18 months of production. However, actual production numbers have been more limited, with sources indicating that only 11 units had been sold before Arc V filed for bankruptcy in early 2024.
Despite these challenges, the company continues to operate, with each Vector being custom-built to order. Prospective buyers work directly with the Arc design team to create their perfect Vector, making each motorcycle a truly bespoke creation.
Arc Vector vs. Competitors
How does the Arc Vector compare to other high-end electric motorcycles on the market?
Comparative Analysis
| Feature | Arc Vector | Energica Ego+ | LiveWire One | Damon Hypersport |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | £90,000+ | £23,000 | £24,000 | £30,000 |
| Power | 117-133 bhp | 171 bhp | 105 bhp | 200 bhp |
| Range (Combined) | 270-435 km | 230 km | 235 km | 320 km |
| Charging (0-80%) | 40 min | 40 min | 40 min | 45 min |
| Weight | 220-240 kg | 260 kg | 249 kg | 200 kg |
| Top Speed | 200 km/h | 240 km/h | 177 km/h | 320 km/h |
| Special Features | Hub-center steering, carbon fiber construction | Racing pedigree | H-D heritage | AI safety systems |
While significantly more expensive than its competitors, the Arc Vector offers unique design and engineering elements not found elsewhere, positioning it as a true halo product in the electric motorcycle segment.
Human Machine Interface (HMI)
One of the most innovative aspects of the Arc Vector is its optional Human Machine Interface (HMI) system, which integrates multiple technologies to enhance the riding experience.
Key HMI Components
- Heads-up display integrated into the rider’s helmet
- Haptic feedback system in riding gear
- Advanced connectivity with the motorcycle’s systems
- Enhanced safety through rider awareness systems
Arc claims this system makes the Vector “the safest motorcycle in the world” when fully implemented.
Ownership Experience
Owning an Arc Vector involves more than just purchasing a motorcycle; it encompasses a relationship with the company and a complete ownership journey.
Personalization Process
When ordering a Vector, buyers work directly with the Arc design team to customize their motorcycle according to personal preferences, creating a truly bespoke vehicle.
Service & Support
Arc offers comprehensive service options including:
- Global servicing through approved providers
- Option for home service visits
- Comprehensive warranty package (details vary by region)
Arc Vector: Real-World Riding Experience
The Arc Vector offers a unique riding experience that combines the instant torque of electric propulsion with innovative handling characteristics.
Handling Characteristics
The Vector’s hub-center steering provides several benefits in real-world riding:
- Reduced brake dive compared to conventional forks
- Enhanced stability during hard acceleration
- Superior bump absorption and road feel
- Precise cornering despite the bike’s substantial weight
Early reviews indicate that despite its innovative design, the Vector handles in a manner familiar to experienced riders, with the hub-center steering providing a surprisingly conventional feel.
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Future Developments
Despite the company’s financial challenges, Arc continues to develop and refine its technology, with potential future developments including:
- Increased range through battery advancements
- Enhanced connectivity features
- Expanded model lineup
- More accessible price points in future models
FAQs About the Arc Vector Electric Motorcycle
How fast is the Arc Vector electric motorcycle?
The Arc Vector has a top speed of 200 km/h (124 mph), which is electronically limited. It can accelerate from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in approximately 3.2-3.4 seconds.
What is the range of the Arc Vector?
The Arc Vector offers a range of approximately 436 km (271 miles) in urban riding conditions. Highway range is reduced to about 120-200 km (75-124 miles) depending on speed and riding style.
How much does the Arc Vector cost?
The Arc Vector is priced starting at £90,000 in the UK (approximately $117,500 or €105,700), making it one of the most expensive production motorcycles in the world.
How long does it take to charge the Arc Vector?
Using a CCS fast charger, the Arc Vector can be charged from empty to full in approximately 40 minutes, providing about 225 km of range.
What makes the Arc Vector different from other electric motorcycles?
The Arc Vector features unique hub-center steering, a carbon fiber monocoque battery structure serving as the frame, and is hand-crafted in Britain with premium components throughout. It also offers an optional Human Machine Interface system that integrates with the rider’s gear.
Is the Arc Vector available worldwide?
The Arc Vector is built to order with limited production numbers. While theoretically available globally, practical availability is extremely limited, with reports indicating only 11 units sold before the company faced financial difficulties in 2024.
What is hub-center steering?
Hub-center steering is an alternative front suspension system where the steering pivot points are within or close to the wheel hub, rather than above the wheel as in conventional telescopic forks. This provides benefits including reduced brake dive, improved stability, and potentially better handling characteristics.
Who makes the Arc Vector?
The Arc Vector is manufactured by Arc Vehicle Ltd, a British company founded by engineer Mark Truman. The company has gone through financial restructuring but continues to produce the Vector in limited numbers at its facility near Coventry, UK.
Conclusion: The Future of Electric Motorcycling
The Arc Vector represents more than just another entry in the growing electric motorcycle market; it showcases what’s possible when designers and engineers are freed from the constraints of traditional motorcycle architecture. While its high price point and limited availability mean it won’t become a common sight on roads, its influence on motorcycle design and technology will likely be felt for years to come.
For the fortunate few who can afford it, the Vector offers a unique combination of cutting-edge technology, bespoke craftsmanship, and exhilarating performance that few other vehicles can match. As electric vehicle technology continues to advance and become more accessible, the groundbreaking innovations pioneered by Arc may eventually find their way into more mainstream motorcycles.
Whether viewed as an engineering masterpiece, a collector’s item, or simply the ultimate expression of what’s possible in electric motorcycle design, the Arc Vector has secured its place in motorcycling history.
Recently Updated: Our Arc Vector coverage has been updated to reflect the latest information as of April 25, 2025, including the most current production status, availability details, and technical specifications.
