New Zealand-based electric mobility startup Switch Mobility has confirmed that pre-order books for the world’s first electric scrambler have finally been opened, allowing interested people to book the electric two-wheeler in advance.

The Switch eScrambler concept was initially introduced in February of 2020, and it quickly garnered praise for its classic silhouette, high-tech specs, and innovative design. However, the onset of the deadly Covid-19 pandemic pushed the world into lockdown, putting the eScrambler project at risk.

However, the startup didn’t stop working on the project during those two years of pandemic-induced lockdown period. Matthew Waddick, founder and lead engineer of Switch, joined forces with former Danish Flat Track champion Michel Riis to adapt the concept into a production model. Riis is a seasoned industrial designer who previously worked with Yamaha Japan Advanced Labs. The team worked on the design of the concept and developed it further using 3D software. Simultaneously, they kept accumulating tooling and molds required for the eventual production of the zero-emissions scrambler.

In spite of the homologation process, the Switch eScrambler boasts capacity to produce a 50 kW (roughly 70 horsepower) IPM electric motor and a 13kWh LG 21700 li-ion battery, which is powerful enough to allow the electric scrambler to deliver a range of up to 150 kilometers (approximately 93 miles) on a single full charge. It takes just 4 hours to regain 90 per cent of its juice. The faux gas tank of the electric two-wheeler still hides electronics like controllers away from sight.

The manufacturer used aluminum alloy frame to make the frame of the 375-pound e-bike. To ensure bump-free rides, it has been equipped with a USD fork at the front and a monoshock at the rear. A 27-degree rake is also there to keep it agile in almost all conditions and diverse terrain. Other notable features include LED headlamp and ABS-assisted J.Juan disc brakes.

Describing the eScrambler bike on its official website, the startup states that the environment-friendly electric two-wheeler took styling cues from flat trackers and good-looking classic bikes of the 1970s. The company also states that the eScrambler, which will challenge vintage ICE-powered bikes in performance.

Priced at US$11,999, the eScrambler can be reserved with a deposit of just $500. Assembling of the electric two-wheeler will take place in New Zealand, with official launch scheduled for sometime before the end of 2022. Deliveries to U.S., New Zealand, and Australian customers will likely commence sometime in the first quarter (Q1) of 2023.