KTM develops electrically assisted compressor for motorcycles

In the world of motorcycles, the return of forced induction is a rare event. After Kawasaki set a milestone with the Ninja H2, things remained quiet on the supercharger front for a long time. While the Ninja H2R continued to be considered the most powerful production motorcycle with a supercharger, the field seemed to be left to other manufacturers. However, recent technological changes have brought movement to the scene: Honda introduced a fully electric supercharger with the V3R, and Yamaha developed its own solution with the E-Turbo. Now KTM is also entering the stage – with a novel, electrically assisted supercharger system that combines elements of both technologies and, according to the patent, is intended to offer a middle ground between classic superchargers and modern electric drives.

Patent Shows Hybrid-Driven Compressor

According to the patent, the new KTM compressor is primarily mechanically connected to the crankshaft, as with traditional compressors. However, KTM employs an electrically controlled clutch that can decouple the compressor from the crankshaft when needed. In this case, an electric motor takes over driving the compressor and provides instant boost pressure – independent of engine speed. Particularly at low RPMs, when the engine cannot deliver sufficient energy, the electric motor steps in and ensures immediate power delivery.

Flexible System: Three Operating Modes for Optimal Efficiency

KTM’s system features a so-called decoupler that automatically decides which drive mode offers the best performance depending on the riding situation. There are three operating modes in total:

Mechanical: The compressor is driven directly by the crankshaft.
Electric: At low RPMs or under specific requirements, the electric motor takes over.
Combined: In a third mode, the compressor can be driven both mechanically and electrically simultaneously to achieve maximum power.

This flexible concept makes it possible to always select the optimal operating state, which should significantly improve efficiency and throttle response.

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Weight and Efficiency Advantages Over Competing Systems

Another advantage of the KTM system: when the electric motor is not needed for compressor drive, it can be used as a generator for the onboard battery. This makes it possible to get by with a smaller and lighter battery – an aspect that is particularly crucial for lightweight motorcycles. For comparison: Honda’s fully electric compressor in the V3R requires a significantly larger battery to provide the necessary energy at all times. KTM’s approach could therefore achieve a better balance between forced induction performance and total weight.

The patent also mentions that the entire unit is mounted beneath the motorcycle as a compact module. This is intended to contribute to a low center of gravity and good handling.

Is KTM Developing a Charged Production Model?

Charged motorcycle engines are nothing new – Kawasaki demonstrated with the H2 that supercharging works for motorcycles. However, KTM’s concept goes one step further: by combining mechanical and electric drive for the compressor, the traditional weaknesses of both systems are to be eliminated. Whether KTM will actually bring such a model to market remains uncertain, but the depth of detail in the patent suggests that it goes beyond a mere thought experiment.

→ This article is part of our comprehensive overview of patents and future technologies – find all developments in our Patents and Future Motorcycle Technology overview.