Inspiration through tradition: the rebirth of the Flying Flea
The new Flying Flea electric brand picks up on the tradition and spirit of the original model from the 1940s. The Flying Flea of that time was designed during the Second World War to be dropped by parachute as a lightweight, robust motorcycle. This flexibility and lightness is now being revived in the form of a modern electric version for the city and beyond. The Flying Flea combines historic design elements with modern electromobility.
Quotes and visions from the management
Siddhartha Lal, Managing Director of Eicher Motors Ltd, described the project as follows: “Since 1901, Royal Enfield has been a companion for exploration and unadulterated motorcycling experiences for millions of riders. Today, as we embark on a new chapter, this mission is the driving force and inspiration behind our new Flying Flea brand.” This illustrates Royal Enfield’s desire to bring the essence of traditional motorcycling to the world of electric mobility.
B. Govindarajan, CEO of Royal Enfield, emphasized the importance of the new brand at the launch event in Milan: “Flying Flea combines style, urban practicality and cutting-edge technology. This is a sustainable new beginning for us and offers the world an elegant and effective solution for urban mobility.” He added that the company has invested heavily in research and development for e-mobility in recent years, including a dedicated EV plant in Chennai, India.
Mario Alvisi, Chief Growth Officer for electric vehicles at Royal Enfield, explained: “Flying Flea is a completely new approach. We have not made any compromises, but developed the project from scratch, with a clear vision and an international team.”
The first model: the Flying Flea C6
The first model in the Flying Flea series, the Flying Flea C6, is a modern interpretation of the classic design and offers innovative technologies:
- Retro-futuristic design: the Flying Flea C6 combines nostalgic style elements such as an aluminum Girder fork with a modern forged aluminum frame. The battery is housed in a lightweight magnesium housing with a design that combines elements of the 1940s and modernity.
- Technological concept: An integrated Vehicle Control Unit (VCU) enables over 200,000 riding mode combinations. The VCU was specially developed for this model and ensures that the vehicle is always kept up to date via software updates. Functions such as the “Phone as a Key” service enable intuitive, keyless starting for the driver.
- Ease of use and driving pleasure: The Flying Flea C6 offers easy handling and powerful acceleration in “twist and go” style, complemented by lean angle-dependent ABS and an adjustable recuperation brake. The range and the charging function for conventional household sockets make the model ideal for everyday use in the city.
A new chapter for Royal Enfield and sustainable mobility
Royal Enfield is investing heavily in electromobility and has already registered over 28 patents in the field of new technologies. Production takes place both in India and in the UK. Royal Enfield also has a stake in Stark Future, an electric off-road motorcycle company based in Barcelona.
Flying Flea is part of a comprehensive plan by Royal Enfield to expand its own portfolio with sustainable mobility solutions. The models in the Flying Flea series are designed for riders looking for a combination of urban lifestyle, style and innovative technology.
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