Zero Motorcycles, the American pioneer of electric motorcycles, has just announced a significant new round of funding, reaching a 9-figure sum.
Zero Motorcycles secures over $120 million to accelerate global expansion
Zero Motorcycles, a leader in the premium electric motorcycle segment, has raised over $120 million through the sale of $100 million in shares to two undisclosed investors, which will strengthen the company's growth and expansion. This fund-raising follows on from that carried out some two years ago, when Zero Motorcycles secured $107 million from major industrial partners such as Polaris and Hero MotoCorp. This financial support enabled the company to continue its activities and maintain its position in an increasingly competitive market.
Today, with this new injection of capital, Zero aims to accelerate its expansion and develop machines capable of competing with high-performance combustion motorcycles. The funds, according to a Zero spokesperson interviewed by TechCrunch, will be used to support the development of new models and expand the manufacturer's international activities, although specific details were not revealed.
A market in transformation, but persistent challenges
François Bestel, director of Zero Motorcycles in France, affirms: "The electric motorcycle is now a market reality"(Auto Infos). Although the electric mobility sector is booming worldwide, manufacturers of electric motorcycles face a number of obstacles. The high price remains a brake for many consumers, and the abolition of the 6,000-euro conversion bonus in France has also affected the market.
Despite these difficulties, Zero Motorcycles continues to gain ground, particularly in the Paris region, where demand for electric two-wheelers is strong. Paris is now the city in the world where the most premium electric motorcycles are sold, making it a priority area for the company.
Growing competition in the electric motorcycle sector?
Faced with the rise of generalist manufacturers integrating electric two-wheelers into their ranges, electric motorcycle specialists like Zero Motorcycles are having to redouble their efforts to remain competitive. At the same time, some niche players are struggling to stay in business: Harley-Davidson, with its LiveWire subsidiary, is posting losses, while Italian manufacturer Energica can't sink any lower.
However, the disappearance of competitors like Energica could indirectly benefit Zero, which has established itself as a leading player in the high-end electric motorcycle market, particularly with its off-road models and high-performance motorcycles for long-distance riding. Zero Motorcycles' expertise and premium positioning enable it to stand out from the crowd. The recently-raised funds should enable the brand to diversify its ranges while consolidating its international presence.
Zero Motorcycles' promises for Eicma Milan (Press release):
The Californian electric motorcycle manufacturer will be exhibiting its 2025 range at the EICMA European Motorcycle Show in Milan, starting next Tuesday. A press conference will be held on its stand at 3.15pm on Tuesday November 5, during which three models will be unveiled.
In line with its ambition to "push back the limits of technology and design", the Milan show will be a first indicator, where Zero plans to unveil three new prototypes, two cross-country and one roadster...
