BRP Launches Rotax Thunder Electric Powerpack Racing Kart
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October 10th, 2017
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BRP Launches Rotax Electric Powerpack Racing Kart

Anytime we hear about new electric motor technology development in the powersports industry, our ears perk up. Enter BRP with its Rotax THUNDeR Electric Powerpack Kart. Although it’s unlikely that the power-to-weight and low cost of the internal combustion engine will be matched in the immediate future, taking all factors—societal pressure, emissions, supply of fuel, etc—into account, the clock is ticking on gas powered engines. It may not come right away, but at some point down the road powersports vehicles will almost assuredly shift to some other power source, be it electric or some other technology.

With that in mind, it’s interesting to see BRP release an all-electric recreational vehicle, even it if doesn’t quite suit the off-road/backcountry tastes of mountain sledders. It looks hella fun though!

— MS

 

The BRP Press Release is below:

 

BRP Launches A Whole New Kart Racing Experience With Its First Rotax Electric Powerpack

(Sept 29, 2017) Valcourt, QC – BRP is expanding its range of Rotax internal combustion engines to electric powerpacks. BRP’s new Rotax THUNDeR powerpacks will offer consumers all the advantages of electrification, including lower greenhouse gas and noise emissions, with the same performance and ease-of-use that have become hallmarks of the Rotax brand.

 

 

“BRP is focused on providing trendsetting experiences to its consumers,” said José Boisjoli, president and CEO. “With the introduction of an all-electric zero-emission low-noise kart, BRP is positioned to fully seize and shape new markets. Ongoing innovations in electric technology and shifting consumer demand enable us to extend the performance and thrilling experiences of the acclaimed Rotax racing DNA to our new electric powerpacks.”

The key features of this new powerpack will include:

  • A high-performance lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 2.5 kWh,
  • A top performance of 20 kW and 46 Nm,
  • From 0 to 100 km/h in 3.5 seconds, and • A top speed of 130 km/h.

“This new powerpack is a ground-breaking development, and we are very excited to be taking our first step into the world of electrification,” said Thomas Uhr, General Manager BRP-Rotax and Vice President Powertrain BRP. “As the world of powersports continues to advance, it is important that we evolve our business to embrace emerging trends. Our new offering will be a complement to traditional race-day excitement, and we are thrilled to be using new technology to provide an alternative, high-level powersports experience.”

The Rotax electric powerpack will be distributed through RIC TECH, a joint venture between subsidiary BRP-Rotax and Italian partner SMRE SPA.