Overview
- KTM Electric Duke shown.
- Likely to be manufactured in India by Bajaj
- Shares chassis with 390 Duke
- Expected 5.5kWh battery, 10kW motor
- Sharp futuristic design with KTM’s signature aggression
KTM E-Duke Revealed: Here’s What You Need to Know
KTM has finally lifted the curtain on its much-anticipated electric streetfighter — the KTM E-Duke. First glimpsed in investor presentations years ago, this prototype now proudly sits on display at KTM’s Motohall in Austria. While it’s still a prototype, it’s a significant step forward in KTM’s electrification journey — and an exciting one at that.
A Long-Awaited Debut
It was back in 2022 that KTM’s parent company, Pierer Mobility, first teased an all-electric Duke in an investor presentation. Now, after years of anticipation, fans finally get a look at the first KTM electric motorcycle, thanks to stunt rider Rok Bagoros, who posted a video of the prototype stationed inside KTM’s famed Motohall in Mattighofen, Austria.
While there’s no official spec sheet yet, KTM has left just enough hints to keep enthusiasts buzzing.
Performance & Battery: What Powers the E-Duke?
According to early information, the KTM E-Duke is expected to use a 10kW electric motor (nominal output) mated to a 5.5kWh battery pack. On paper, this setup is geared towards spirited urban riding rather than long-range touring.
That said, don’t expect a range of more than 100km — and that too with a light throttle hand. The smaller battery does help in one key area: weight management. With KTM’s expertise in performance dynamics, this bike could weigh less than the current 390 Duke’s 168kg, making it nimble and fun in tight urban settings.
Built on Familiar Foundations
A quick glance confirms that the E-Duke is built on the same rolling chassis as the 390 Duke. This includes:
- Trellis frame
- Aluminium swingarm
- Offset rear monoshock
- 390-style wheels and disc brakes
This smart move not only ensures cost-efficiency but also leverages KTM’s proven dynamics. The motor and battery are mounted low in the frame, mimicking the position of a petrol engine to preserve the Duke’s famed mass-centralized feel. Power is sent to the rear wheel via a chain drive, just like its ICE siblings.
One curious design element is a large open air duct near the headstock, hinting at a cooling intake for the battery or electronics. There’s also an integrated charging cable, suggesting the presence of an onboard charger — a thoughtful touch, especially in regions like India where portable chargers are impractical.
Design: Aggressive, Futuristic & Very KTM
Visually, the E-Duke looks like it means business. It retains the aggressive Duke silhouette but adds a futuristic flair with:
- Sharper body panels
- A new subframe
- Redesigned tank extensions
- A deconstructed LED headlamp (inspired by the 990 and 1390 Dukes)
It’s unmistakably a KTM — bold, sharp, and unapologetically edgy.
A few prototype-specific elements also stand out:
- A MotoGP-style belly scoop
- A 3D-printed seat, which might be great for cooling but tough to clean in dusty climates
- A hand-operated rear brake lever, a feature carried over from KTM’s Freeride E-XC electric off-roaders
The cockpit is minimal but functional, likely featuring a 4.3-inch TFT display similar to the 390 Adventure or Enduro R.
India to Play a Central Role
One of the most exciting aspects of the E-Duke’s journey is India’s involvement. If this electric bike goes into production — and all signs point to yes — it will most likely be manufactured by Bajaj in India. In fact, Bajaj has played a key role in KTM’s global strategy and is set to become the majority stakeholder in Pierer Mobility.
Given Bajaj’s experience with the Chetak EV and export-focused manufacturing, the E-Duke could serve as KTM’s global entry-level electric motorcycle, manufactured at scale right here in India.
Conclusion: A Bold New Chapter for KTM
The KTM E-Duke is more than just an electric motorcycle. It’s a bold statement from a brand that has always pushed the limits of performance. With sharp styling, proven hardware, and the potential for local manufacturing, the E-Duke is poised to be an electrifying addition to KTM’s lineup.
While details on price and launch timeline are still under wraps, one thing is clear — KTM is serious about going electric, and they’re doing it the Duke way: bold, aggressive, and performance-focused.