After a year of dedicated engineering and collaboration, students at the University of Warwick, in partnership with MSC Industrial Supply Co UK (MSC), have unveiled an innovative electric racing motorbike. Designed to showcase the forefront of UK high-value manufacturing, the new superbike represents the visionary future of electric motorcycle technology.
The Veloris: A Breakthrough in Electric Racing
Officially launched at Warwick University last month, the Veloris is the latest achievement of Warwick Moto, a student-led electric racing team established in 2019 within the university’s School of Engineering. The team has worked closely with industry leaders to develop a high-performance electric superbike capable of competing at the highest levels of motorsport.
MSC has played a pivotal role in the project, providing extensive engineering support, from design for manufacture to programming and machining essential components. Collaborating with its strategic OEM partner, Seco Tools, MSC also contributed to the production of an advanced, lightweight battery case, machined from a single aluminium block. This cutting-edge design exemplifies the latest advancements in material optimisation and computational simulation, setting new benchmarks for performance and efficiency in electric vehicle technology.
Through MSC’s support, students have gained hands-on experience with state-of-the-art tools and techniques, including CNC machining and 3D printing, at MSC’s Technology Centre in Wednesbury. Additionally, MSC has provided consultancy services to guide the team through the project’s development.
Pioneering Engineering and Sustainability
The Veloris project has garnered support from several industry partners, including Seco Tools, WMG – The University of Warwick, Catapult, and Norton Motorcycles, all of whom are committed to advancing engineering and sustainability in motorsport. Weighing 215kg, the Veloris boasts a simulated top speed of 165mph, a motor power output of 124kW, and a 670V battery with a 12.6kWh capacity, capable of delivering a peak current of 225A.
Nirmit Jobanputra, chief engineer of Warwick Moto, stated:
> “The team dedicated a year to designing a lightweight powertrain for a high-performance electric motorcycle built for lap record-setting. This project exemplifies the incredible potential of student-led innovation when supported by industry and academia. The Veloris is more than just a concept—it’s proof of what the next generation of engineers can achieve in shaping the future of high-performance electric motorcycles.”
Dave Darby, managing director of MSC Industrial Supply Co UK, expressed his pride in the initiative:
> “It was an honour to witness the unveiling of the Warwick Moto ‘Veloris’ concept EV motorcycle at Warwick University. The student team has designed and built this prototype in collaboration with MSC and its industry partners. Supporting and mentoring some of the most talented young engineers in the country has been a privilege.
> “Many of the components were machined at our state-of-the-art Technical Centre, contributing to this remarkable endeavour. We are incredibly proud to be a major sponsor of this project and commend the Warwick Moto team for pushing engineering boundaries through the power of student and industry collaboration.”
