MotoE Halted After 2025: Shocking Reasons Revealed!

MotoGP, Sportrik Media - The electric motorcycle racing series MotoE will go on hiatus after the 2025 season, as confirmed by the FIM and Dorna Sports on September 11, 2025. Far beyond waning fan interest, this decision stems from complex market dynamics, slow technological progress, and shifting industry priorities. Here’s an in-depth look at the factors driving this pivotal move.

Electric Motorcycle Market Falls Short

Launched in 2019, MotoE was expected to capitalize on the electric vehicle boom, but high-performance electric motorcycles have seen sluggish growth compared to cars. The industry has pivoted toward more efficient internal combustion engines using non-fossil fuels, aligning with MotoGP’s plan for 100% non-fossil fuel by 2027. This shift positions MotoGP as the leading sustainable technology, overshadowing MotoE.

Financial struggles of major brands like Zero Electric, backed by Peter Stevens, highlight limited consumer demand for high-performance electric bikes. “The market isn’t ready for widespread adoption as we hoped,” noted an industry analyst, supporting Dorna’s decision to reassess MotoE’s viability.

Race Format Lacks Excitement

MotoE’s short races, typically under 10 laps due to battery constraints, fail to deliver the drama and intensity of MotoGP. Bikes, uniformly produced by Ducati (previously Energica), match Moto3 speeds but lack the spectacle fans expect from MotoGP’s roaring engines. Track data reveals declining appeal: race rounds peaked at 16 but dropped to seven in 2025, signaling a format unable to sustain long-term public interest. “Short races struggle to match MotoGP’s thrill,” said a racing commentator.

Fading Fan and Media Enthusiasm

Public sentiment, especially on social media, shows a lack of excitement for MotoE, with fans finding it less “thrilling” than combustion-engine classes like Honda or Yamaha. The unclear future of electric motorcycle technology, compared to the defined path of non-fossil fuels in MotoGP, has diminished MotoE’s appeal to fans and stakeholders. Dorna emphasized that this decision reflects fan feedback and market trends.

Early Incidents Tarnished Reputation

MotoE faced a major setback in its 2019 debut when a massive fire at Jerez Circuit destroyed its entire fleet, delaying the season. Though the series recovered, this incident cast a lasting shadow over its reputation, raising doubts about the reliability of electric racing technology.

Influence of Liberty Media’s Acquisition

While Dorna denies a direct link, sports media speculate that Liberty Media’s acquisition of Dorna influenced this decision. Known for prioritizing profitability, Liberty may be redirecting resources toward more lucrative areas like MotoGP’s non-fossil fuel initiatives. “It’s about investing in what promises the most return,” an analyst noted.

The MotoE hiatus allows Dorna to channel resources into MotoGP innovations, such as non-fossil fuels for 2027, while keeping an eye on electric technology advancements. Should electric motorcycles gain market relevance, MotoE could return. This decision reflects a strategic balance between innovation and fan appeal amid a shifting industry landscape.