Triumph Motorcycles has unveiled a prototype of the TE-1 electric motorbike it has been working on for a few years now. There’s still not much detail unfortunately with information about spec and performance only due after another six months of road and track testing.

Project Triumph TE-1 is an effort to develop specialist electric motorcycle technology. It has seen the firm collaborate with Williams Advanced Engineering, Integral Powertrain Ltd and the University of Warwick.

Phase 3 has now climaxed with a prototype that is ready for testing.

“It has been truly exciting to see the progress made during Phase 3 of Project Triumph TE 1 with the final prototype motorcycle now going into real life testing,” said Triumph CEO, Nick Bloor.

“Everyone involved at Triumph are proud to have been part of this innovative British collaboration. Personally, I am thrilled with the results we have already achieved with our partners, and the exciting preview of the potential electric future to come.

“We look forward to continuing the ambitious and innovative work on the TE-1 demonstrator prototype through the live testing phase and sharing the outcome with Triumph fans across the world.”

Triumph began Phase 3 by building a ‘mule’ bike into which the battery, inverter, motor, and chassis were incorporated. The partners then worked together to integrate the various systems.

This reportedly entailed hundreds of hours of testing, which was then followed by real life simulation work carried out at WMG. Durability testing was also conducted to better understand electric motor load application in various scenarios.

Triumph’s chief product officer, Steve Sargent, said: “During phase 3 we have focused on building the physical foundation of Triumph’s first electric prototype motorcycle.

“I am pleased with the outcome of Triumph and the TE-1 partners’ efforts in creating a demonstrator bike that is not only visually so desirable with clear Triumph DNA, but also packaged with an exhilarating and thrilling brand-new electric powertrain that has such potential for the future.

“I look forward to continuing the development of this demonstrator vehicle through phase 4 and using our knowledge and capabilities to bring all of the partners’ cutting-edge technology together into a final result which will guide Triumph’s electric strategy for the future.

“Our experience tells us that at this stage of a project there is no substitute to genuinely riding a bike when developing driveability, handling and character, and we have ambitious targets focused on delivering a riding experience that is new and exciting, but ultimately intuitive and familiar. I am really looking forward to my first opportunity to ride the completed prototype.”

If the project has at times seemed rather drawn-out, it’s worth pointing out that Triumph has actually produced an electric vehicle in the interim – an e-bike no less.

We reviewed the £2,950 Triumph Trekker in 2020. It’s pretty good.