Skip to main content

Meet the Model M: British designer imagines electric Tesla motorcycle

Since 2010, Tesla has built an electric roadster and a variety of stylish sedans, and the brand is currently prepping its Model X crossover for launch. With more high-profile debuts on the way, it’s an exciting time to be an EV fan, however the American company is unlikely to venture into the two-wheeled arena anytime soon. But that’s not stopping one designer from imagining an electric motorcycle, and it has the perfect name — Model M.

Sharing its designation with the fictional leader of James Bond’s MI6, the hypothetical two-wheeler was digitally crafted by London designer Jans Slapins, a man with a clear penchant for style. A quick look through his catalog reveals stunning works such as the Lamborghini Rat Rod, a vehicle as incredible as it is inconceivable.

Recommended Videos

The Model M, originally detailed by Silodrome, equips a 201-horsepower electric motor and four different operating modes: Race, Cruise, Standard, and Eco. Power is sourced from lithium-ion batteries mounted as low as possible on the aluminum frame, keeping the center of gravity down and the handling sharp.

Tesla Model M
Jans Slapins
Please enable Javascript to view this content

At first glance, the bike looks heavy. However, the center compartment — where the fuel tank would normally be — is actually a watertight storage locker, with enough room for a laptop, backpack, or a full face helmet. And because the vehicle is electric, there’s no need for a transmission.

Related: Elon Musk claims the Tesla Model S has the highest EV value retention after three years

The Model M employs oodles of modern technology and next-generation materials, such as lightweight carbon-fiber wheels. Additionally, a mono shock suspension setup keeps the rear-end stable, while inverted forks keep everything savvy up front.

Is the Model M or a Tesla motorbike in general something you would buy? Let us know what you think of the design in the comments.

Andrew Hard
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Andrew first started writing in middle school and hasn't put the pen down since. Whether it's technology, music, sports, or…
Tesla Model Y vs. Nissan Ariya: Can Tesla take out Nissan’s electric crossover?
Front three quarter view of the 2023 Nissan Ariya.

Nissan has been a little slow to the punch when it comes to electrification (besides the Leaf, of course). But now, it’s finally starting to electrify its lineup with the new Nissan Ariya. The Ariya is a crossover similar in size to the likes of the Ford Mustang Mach-E, the Kia EV6, and, of course, the Tesla Model Y.

If you’re in the market for a new electric car, you might be wondering whether you should go for the now-everywhere Tesla Model Y or stick with the newer Nissan Ariya. Both cars are seemingly more tech-focused, however, while the Ariya builds on Nissan’s decades of experience in the automotive industry, the Model Y takes a still-fresh approach to its car, at least compared to the competition.

Read more
Tesla Model 3 Highland: release date, range, design update, and more
A Tesla Model 3 electric car.

The Tesla Model 3 has long been one of the best electric cars out there, especially for drivers who want a high-quality car without paying a ton of cash. The Model 3 boasts a great range, along with awesome tech features and minimalistic design, all of which have helped make it a top-selling electric car.

But to date, it hasn’t evolved much. The car has been around for six years now, with  thefirst deliveries of the original Model 3 coming in late 2017. But now it’s getting a face-lift. The updated car, code-named Highland, has been announced, and it offers a range of upgrades over the current-generation Tesla Model 3.

Read more
The BMW i4 is more luxurious than the Tesla Model S, and costs way less
2022 BMW i4 M50

The Tesla Model S is the original cool electric car. It did away with the concept that EVs had to be nerdy, small, low-range cars — and instead offered a sleek and stylish design, as well as a modern interior. But over the years, a ton of competition has popped up, and these days, the Model S has to go up against some seriously great cars. 

Like, for example, the BMW i4.

Read more