Arc Vector

is a limited-production electric sport bike manufactured by British company Arc Vehicles (later Arc V). Conceived as “the world’s most advanced electric motorcycle,” the Vector is distinguished by its hub-center steering, carbon-fiber monocoque chassis, and a focus on a connected, human-machine interface (HMI) ecosystem that includes a smart helmet and haptic jacket .

The company faced significant financial hurdles, entering administration in 2019 and again in 2024, which resulted in only a handful of units being produced. Despite its turbulent production history, the Vector is recognized for its radical engineering and bespoke, made-to-measure ownership experience .

History and Development

The Arc Vector was the brainchild of Mark Truman, a former Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) executive and motorcycle enthusiast. Truman initially developed the bike as a prototype within JLR’s “skunk works” division. While JLR decided against producing the motorcycle themselves, their venture capital arm, InMotion Ventures, invested a seed share in the business .

The Vector was unveiled to the public at the EICMA motorcycle show in Milan in 2018, where its futuristic design and technical specifications drew significant attention . However, the company entered administration in 2019 after a key investor withdrew, halting initial production plans . Mark Truman revived the company under the name Arc V, and production of customer bikes finally began in Coventry in September 2022, with the first unit shipped to a customer in the United States .

Despite this revival, Arc V filed for bankruptcy again in April 2024, having sold only 11 units of the Vector .

Design and Engineering

Chassis and Steering

The Vector eschews a conventional motorcycle frame. Instead, it utilizes a carbon-fiber monocoque that houses the 399V battery pack and serves as the structural backbone of the bike . The most distinctive feature is its hub-center steering (HCS) system. Unlike traditional telescopic forks, the HCS separates braking, steering, and suspension forces. This allows the front wheel to be steered via swingarms while the Öhlins shock handles suspension independently, theoretically offering superior stability and feel .

Powertrain and Performance

The bike is powered by a permanent magnet AC motor paired with a 16.8 kWh lithium-ion battery using Samsung cells . The motor produces approximately 117–127 bhp (87–95 kW) and a peak torque of 128 lb-ft (174 Nm), driving the rear wheel via a silent belt drive .

Performance figures include a 0–60 mph time of 3.1 seconds and a gearing-limited top speed of 124 mph (200 km/h). Range varies significantly by riding style, with estimates ranging from 120 miles (190 km) at high speeds to approximately 200–271 miles (320–436 km) in urban or mixed conditions . Using a DC fast charger (Type 2 CCS), the battery can charge from 0 to 90% in approximately 40 minutes .

Weight and Construction

Weighing approximately 240 kg (529 lb) wet, the Vector is heavy for its size, which affects low-speed maneuverability. However, extensive use of carbon fiber—including the front and rear swingarms, wheels (by BST), and seat unit—helps to manage the overall mass . Braking is handled by Brembo Stylema calipers biting on twin 320mm discs .

Human Machine Interface (HMI)

A key selling point of the Arc Vector was the “Arc Experience” (AE) package, which included the Zenith helmet and Origin jacket. Developed in collaboration with Hedon and Knox respectively, this system connected wirelessly to the motorcycle .

• Zenith Helmet: Featured a voice-activated Head-Up Display (HUD) projecting speed, navigation, and a feed from a rear-facing camera to eliminate blind spots .
• Origin Jacket: Embedded with haptic transmitters, the jacket could vibrate to warn the rider of approaching dangers (such as a car in the blind spot) or to provide feedback on ABS or traction control activation .

This system brought the total price of the bike to approximately £110,000 .

Specifications (2022-2024 Model)

Reception

Reviewers praised the Vector for its incredible smoothness, instantaneous torque, and rapid steering that belied its heavy weight . The fit and finish were described as “sky high” and comparable to European exotic cars .

However, criticism focused on the limited steering lock, making city riding difficult, and the abrupt throttle response at low speeds. The high price point was the primary barrier, with reviewers noting that the bike was a “work of art” and a “bold stride forward” rather than a mass-market product .