Can-Am Spyder Hybrid ConceptThe Can-Am Spyder has sparked considerable debate since its 2007 production debut, but the machine has also sold very well and become a popular touring mount for many a long-distance rider. The controversy comes from its three-wheeled design – some say it’s not a motorcycle, others, usually owners, say that it is in fact a motorcycle, except that it has an extra wheel.
No matter how you feel about the Spyder, it is a vehicle which people demo and often find themselves trying to figure out how they can get one of their own. Within the next few years, the industry is likely to see yet another version of the Spyder, and it is something even environmentally conscious riders will be able to get excited about.
Can-Am Spyder RT RoadsterThe Can-Am Spyder is a three-wheeled motorcycle configured with two wheels in front and a single rear drive wheel. The engine is specially modified Rotax 998cc putting out 106 hp and 77 lb/ft of torque through a 5-speed transmission driving the rear tire with a Kevlar belt. There are two trim lines offered presently, the RS and RT.
And, there are two configurations, the SM5 with a manual transmission and the SE5 with a semi-automatic transmission. Additionally, there are numerous high-spec features such as traction control, stability control and linked antilock brakes (ABS) as standard features across all models. On top of that, Can-Am has an enormous accessory catalog with everything from luggage, GPS and fancy wheels to performance parts and a large, stylish trailer. The Spyder also enjoys a very loyal following and imbues a certain cache when pulling up straddling one – everyone will ask about your ride…everyone!
A partnership between the Bombardier Recreational Products, Inc. (BRP), parent company of Can-Am, and the University of Sherbrooke created the Centre de Technologies Avancees (CTA). That partnership recently received CAD$6.2 million (~US$6.3 million) from the Canadian federal government and an additional CAD$5.1 million (~US$5.2 million) investment from BRP for the development of a plug-in hybrid powertrain to drive the Can-Am Spyder. The design further calls for a 50% increase in fuel efficiency over the current figures of around 25~35 mpg.
Can-Am Spyder Hybrid ConceptIt may seem like an easier task in this time of automobile manufacturers introducing new hybrid models nearly every month, but the Can-Am Spyder is quite considerably smaller than a Toyota Prius. Finding room in the Spyder chassis for a complete plug-in hybrid system will be a challenge, to be sure, but others have gotten close – just see the Piaggio MP3 300ie.
Plus, there is the additional weight of the batteries which will be necessary to store any energy picked up via an electrical outlet or a small on-board engine. The real question will be just how much more efficient the new hybrid drive system will be when compared to the standard gasoline-only version.
However, Can-Am’s continued drive for innovative technology and creativity should impel this project forward; and the University of Sherbrooke brings an outsider perspective along with the new ideas formed from it to this endeavor. The hybrid version of the Can-Am Spyder won’t be available anytime soon but, when it gets here, it will be a leap forward for the Greening of our sport.
