circular design on two wheels: belin design office presents ekka electric motorcycles

ekka m-1 and cs-1 feature a raw, futuristic aesthetic

Belin Design Office conceptualizes a duo of electric motorcycles beyond tailpipe emissions. The Ekka M-1 Performance and CS-1 City Scooter models embrace circular design principles on two wheels, sharing the same minimal material palette and optimal efficiency for streamlined production sustainability.

With a design language rooted in functionality, the motorcyles’ aesthetics are modular, raw, and eco-conscious, deviating from the industry’s standard practice of concealing frames with plastic body panels. Aluminum bending is prioritized over energy-intensive hot-forming for panels and structures that flip upside-down, reducing its carbon footprint and resulting in a distinct futuristic expression.

all images courtesy of Belin Design Office

belin design office embraces circular design

The M-1, derived from Jean-Marie Floch’s ‘Ludic’ valorization, was created to offer a fun experience with its cafe racer riding position. Its silhouette, clean and bare, leaves side panels that hide the battery and enhance aerodynamics. In contrast, the CS-1, an electric scooter, embodies practicality and versatility to present an ideal urban transportation option. The battery is placed under the rider’s feet, providing ample room for the cargo, while the modular brackets on the front and back can accommodate various objects such as boxes, auxiliary components, and passengers.

Both the Ekka M-1 and the CS-1 leverage in-wheel motors, eliminating the need for a chain, belt, clutch, and transmission. In doing so, Belin Design Office simplifies the frame’s appearance by reducing its weight, freeing up space, utilizing fewer parts and maintenance, and offering a smoother ride that translates into a longer range on a single charge by minimizing drivetrain losses.

a duo of electric motorcycles beyond tailpipe emissions

the Ekka M-1 Performance and CS-1 City Scooter share the same minimal material palette and optimal efficiency

exposed elements deviate from the industry’s standard practice of concealing frames with plastic body panels

the motorcyles’ aesthetics are modular, raw, and futuristic

both models leverage in-wheel motors

aluminum bending is prioritized for the panels and structures that flip upside-down

the battery is placed under the rider’s feet, providing ample room for cargo

project info:

name: Ekka M-1 and Ekka CS-1 Electric Motorcycle
designer: Belin Design Office | Katon Rezkita, F. Almuh

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edited by: ravail khan | designboom