Pioneering Italian electric motorcycle manufacturer Energica have officially filed for bankruptcy

Italian electric superbike manufacturer Energica Motor Company has filed for liquidation, marking the end of their decade-long run as a leader in high-performance electric motorcycles. 

In a statement released today, the company said: “Despite the efforts from the management in actively and extensively pursuing a search for new investors – always with the aim of preserving going concern in the best interest of creditors – it has become clear in the last few hours that these alternative options are no more viable, thus leaving the company with no other choice than resolving for the opening of a bankruptcy judicial liquidation, thus allowing repayment of creditors to the extent possible from the proceeds of liquidation.”

The company cited a “downturn in the automotive market and supply chain,” alongside a “crisis in the electric market and the decline in sector investments,” as key reasons for their financial collapse. The decision was confirmed during a board meeting on October 14, despite Energica achieving record sales volumes and revenues in recent years. 

Founded in 2014, with a design phase that began in 2009, Energica were among the first players in the high-capacity electric bike game, initially showcasing the potential of the platform with their Ego superbike. 

In its latest and most premium iteration, the Ego+ RS, Energica’s flagship sports machine boasted a hefty 171bhp, a claimed 248-mile city range (143 miles combined), and 0-60mph time of just 2.6 seconds – thanks to its 21.5 kWh lithium-ion battery.  

Building on the success of the Ego, Energica expanded their line-up with the Eva naked in 2015, the retro-styled Eva EsseEsse9 in 2017, and the Eva Ribelle in 2020. Despite their premium price tags, these bikes helped Energica carve out a niche following in the electric motorcycle sector. 

In 2022, Energica introduced the Experia sports tourer, which drove record sales, netting the company €13 million that year. They also gained significant traction in the world of racing over the years, serving as the official supplier for the MotoE World Cup for four consecutive seasons.

In 2021, Energica secured investment from American firm Ideanomics Inc., who completed a voluntary takeover in March 2022, acquiring a 75% stake in the company. Initially, the future looked bright, but rising supply chain costs, global economic instability, and a sharp decline in the electric vehicle market soon took their toll. 

Despite extensive efforts to find new investors and keep the company afloat, Energica ultimately failed to secure a lifeline, leaving no option but to file for liquidation. For now, the fate of one of Italy’s most ambitious electric brands remains uncertain.