Mission One Ple

The 2012 Mission One Ple represented a significant moment in the nascent electric motorcycle landscape. While not a direct production model for mass consumption, it was a highly influential prototype, showcasing what was possible in electric two-wheeled propulsion at the time. Its lineage can be traced back to Mission Motors' earlier development efforts, aiming to push boundaries rather than compete directly with established gasoline sportbikes like the Ducati 1199 Panigale or BMW S1000RR. The Ple was more of a technological demonstrator, laying groundwork for future electric performance machines.

Powering the Mission One Ple was a liquid-cooled, 3-phase AC Induction motor, a sophisticated setup for its era. This electric heart produced a substantial torque output of 135.60 Nm (13.8 kgf-m or 100.0 ft.lbs) at 6500 RPM, indicating a strong surge of power available across a broad range. The Ple was capable of reaching an impressive top speed of 241.4 km/h (150.0 mph), a figure that put it firmly in the realm of high-performance gasoline motorcycles. However, the listed category of "ATV" is an interesting anomaly, likely a classification quirk or an early placeholder for electric vehicles not fitting traditional motorcycle categories, rather than indicating it was an actual all-terrain vehicle.

Given its performance aspirations, the Mission One Ple likely featured a riding position geared towards sport riding, with a forward-leaning stance and potentially rearset pegs to accommodate aggressive cornering. While specific details on suspension and chassis refinement are limited for this prototype, one can infer that it was designed for stability at high speeds and responsive handling. Comfort would likely have been secondary to performance, typical of a machine built to demonstrate raw capability rather than long-distance touring. The absence of engine vibration, inherent to electric powertrains, would have contributed to a unique, smooth riding experience.

The target audience for the 2012 Mission One Ple was undoubtedly visionaries, early adopters, and industry stakeholders interested in the future of electric mobility. It wasn't a motorcycle for the everyday commuter but rather a statement piece for those who valued innovation and performance in an electric package. The Ple served as a proof-of-concept, demonstrating that electric motorcycles could deliver thrilling speed and torque. Its legacy is in inspiring subsequent electric motorcycle developments, paving the way for models that would eventually enter production and bring electric performance to a wider audience.