Delfast, the renowned Ukrainian electric vehicle manufacturer, has once again made headlines with their latest achievement. Taking their electric prototype motorcycle, the DNEPR Electric, to the Bonneville Salt Flats during Speed Week 2021, they set a new speed record. This event marked the triumphant return of the iconic DNEPR motorcycle, which has a storied past dating back to its inception in the Soviet era.

Historical Roots

The DNEPR motorcycle has a rich and complex history that began with the M-72 model. During the early 1940s, the Soviet Union sought a modern replacement for its outdated motorcycles, which had struggled in combat during the Winter War against Finland. The BMW R71 became the inspiration for the M-72, thanks to the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact that facilitated access to German designs and expertise. Despite claims that the plans were stolen from Germany, many historians argue this was likely Soviet propaganda to distance themselves from their controversial alliance with Nazi Germany.

Production initially started at three factories, but due to the German invasion in 1941, it shifted to the Irbit Motorcycle Factory in Siberia. By 1952, the KMZ factory in Kiev received engines from Irbit, enabling them to begin local production. The M-72 also found success abroad, with the People's Republic of China acquiring its production rights and continuing manufacture until the 1980s.

Reviving the Legend

Fast forward to 2021, Delfast acquired the full rights to the DNEPR name and technology, reviving the motorcycle in its home country of Ukraine. Known for their innovative electric bikes, Delfast decided to electrify the legendary DNEPR. The transformation involved replacing the traditional gas engine with a state-of-the-art EMRAX-228 electric motor, weighing just 12 kg and delivering an impressive 100 kW (136 HP) in short bursts and 50 kW (68 HP) continuously. Powered by a 12 kWh/800V battery capable of 200A output and 220 Nm of torque, the DNEPR Electric is a powerhouse.

Achieving New Heights

The Bonneville Salt Flats provided the ideal proving ground for the DNEPR Electric. Competitors from around the world gathered for Speed Week 2021, pushing their machines to the limit from August 7 to August 13. Under the skilled hands of Ukrainian racing champion Serhii Malyk, the DNEPR Electric achieved an unprecedented average speed of 107.217 mph in the "A" Omega motorcycle category. This not only surpassed Serhii's own previous record of 104.78 mph set in 2018 but also solidified Delfast's reputation as a trailblazer in electric vehicle performance.

With this latest accomplishment, Delfast continues to redefine the boundaries of electric mobility. From their Guinness World Record-setting 228-mile range on a single charge for an electric bike to now establishing a new benchmark for electric motorcycles, the company remains committed to innovation and excellence. Technologies developed for their groundbreaking range are already evident in their popular Delfast Top 3.0i electric bike. Delfast’s dedication to pushing the envelope ensures they remain at the forefront of the EV revolution.