You might have not expected to read this news today. The French Army is exploring the potential of electric bikes and motorcycles for tactical operations. The shift towards these electric two-wheelers, typically associated with urban commuting or leisure activities, marks a significant step in military innovation.

Silence and high speeds are the two most important factors for these e-bikes

E-bikes and e-motorcycles have evolved into more than just tools for personal mobility. Their features like high power, ease of use, silence, and impressive range align remarkably well with military requirements, especially for covert operations. This is not the first time electric bikes have been used in military contexts – Ukraine’s use of combat-ready electric bikes is a recent example.

Gin X e-bike

The French Land Force’s technical section, Battle Lab Terre, has been testing the LMX range, including the LMX 56 electric bicycle and the LMX 161 electric motorcycle. LMX Bikes, a French-based company, is known for its high-performance electric two-wheelers. These tests aim to evaluate their practical application in military settings.

The LMX 56 is a robust off-road e-bike delivering 2,500 watts of power and 175 Nm of torque. Unlike typical e-mountain bikes, it features a unique dual drivetrain system and a large battery pack, ensuring a range of up to 62 miles on a single charge. On the other hand, the LMX 161 is a lightweight electric motocross bike, boasting 9,000 watts of power, which is equivalent to 12 horsepower. Its weight is just half of a traditional gas-powered motorbike, offering agility and efficiency on the battlefield.

These tests conducted by the French Army are not just about adopting new technology; they are about rethinking traditional military mobility. The integration of e-mobility into military operations could pave the way for more sustainable and efficient military practices. While the full extent of these tests’ outcomes remains to be seen, they certainly point towards a quieter, cleaner, and perhaps more effective approach to tactical military maneuvers.

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