Comprehensive Analysis of the Social Economic and Technical Impacts of Field Validated Electric Motorcycle Conversion in Bangladesh

Electric motorcycles are a cleaner, inexpensive alternative to conventional motorcycles, offering zero tailpipe emissions and reduced air and noise pollution. However, existing research has often overlooked practical aspects such as market dynamics, user acceptance, and rider income and real-world performance data. This study addresses these gaps by evaluating technical specifications, user satisfaction, and the impacts of different motor and battery configurations on operational costs, CO₂ emissions, sustainability, and the financial outcomes for riders using motorcycles as a source of income. Data on battery capacity, motor type, speed, and range were collected from regional companies, service centers, and motorcycle operators engaged in passenger transport services. The analysis reveals that the majority of electric motorcycles are equipped with 1500 W Brushless Direct Current (BLDC) hub motors and lead-acid batteries, offering an optimal balance between cost and performance. Feedback from electric motorcycle users in Bangladesh reveals a positive outlook (73%), highlighting significant cost efficiency and ride comfort, while also addressing some obstacles, such as battery degradation and structural longevity issues. Findings indicate that electric motorcycles can reduce daily CO₂ emissions by approximately 68.2% and lower operational costs by over 84%, leading to significant economic gains. A route-based analysis indicated savings of 28 - 35 Bangladeshi Taka (BDT) per trip and 1700 - 2100 BDT per month, resulting in a 92.5% reduction in costs for electric motorcycles in urban transportation. Riders can save an estimated 3500 BDT per month—equivalent to 13 - 16% of monthly revenue, depending on geographic location. The study underscores the environmental, economic, and social advantages of electric motorcycles, particularly for low- and middle-income users in urban, semi-urban, and rural areas of Bangladesh, reinforcing their potential as a sustainable mobility solution.