With an aim of helping to “catalyze the shift to a sustainable transportation system,” Mark Frohnmayer and the company he founded, Arcimoto, have a game-changing vision. Frohnmayer, who has had start-up success in the gaming world, is pragmatic about how to achieve that vision as evidenced by the prototype SRK that was on display at Pepcom’s recent Digital Experience! event. The SRK is a three-wheel, electric motorcycle that, at $11,900, is relatively affordable and includes the commuting advantages that a motorcycle brings while providing many of the creature comforts of a car.

Dual motors on the front wheels provide impressive acceleration of 0 to 60 MPH in 7.5 seconds with a top speed of 85 MPH. The standard battery range is 70 miles, which can be extended to 130 miles. It has a full roll cage, 3+2 harnesses for its two riders and front and rear crumple zones. The SRK is short enough that it is possible to park its nose to the curb, which, according to Arcimoto, allows three of the SRKs to fit in the same parking space as one SUV.

Side panels are available to protect one from the elements. There are even options to convert it into a low-cost delivery vehicle; perfect for crowded urban areas or those organizations wishing to have a distinctive mobile look.

Introducing a new vehicle from a new company is almost impossible in a market of entrenched and well-capitalized and behemoth incumbents. Frohnmayer explains that was one of the reasons for focusing on a motorcycle is the capital costs are much less than for a traditional automobile. Aricmoto plans production of a beta fleet this year and mass-production for this, its 8th generation vehicle, in late 2016.