White Motorcycle Concepts (WMC) has opened the order book for its Yamaha Tricity 300-based WMC300AE, a hybrid three-wheeler which claims to reduce CO2 emissions by 50% with fuel efficiency of 104mpg. But if you want one you’ll have to be quick (they’re only planning to make 10) and probably well-heeled (it’s ‘price on application’).

The hybrid trike is basically a production version of the WMC300FR, which has been trialled by Northamptonshire Police. Starting with the 298cc tilting three-wheel Tricity, WMC has added a 5Kw electric motor and two rechargeable batteries, which charge through a standard three-pin plug. The electric power train takes over below 30mph, and its contribution tails off up to 40mph. In theory, this should give the best of both worlds – quiet, emissions-free running in town, and a longer range at higher speeds.

Central to WMC’s philosophy is improved aerodynamics, with special mudguards pushing air into a carbon fibre duct, allowing it to pass through the vehicle instead of being pushed aside. This should make the 300cc three-wheeler more efficient at high speeds. The twin batteries are very small (1.3kwh total, about the same as an electric moped) but having the back-up of a petrol motor means you should never run out of juice. WMC has not quoted any figures for performance or battery range.

Jim Freeman, Chair of the BMF, said: “Tricity, ‘white goods on wheels’? It sounds like an excellent idea for a hybrid. I hope they can reach a wider market.”

Link to White Motorcycle Concepts press release here

Written by Peter Henshaw

All images courtesy of White Motorcycle Concepts