CRP Group Makes Progress, Showcases 3D Printed Electric Superbike

For a few years, CRP Group has been working with the Energica Motor Company to develop all-electric superbikes. Parts for the Ego and Ego Corsa bikes are being 3D printed with CRP’s Windform composite materials, and it’s been an interesting journey to follow. The newer Corsa has been in development for the 2019 FIM Enel MotoE World Cup, and progress is being made steadily. During the recent French MotoGP, a brand new prototype of the bike made an appearance on the track for the first time in public.

The testing of the bike was carried out by Loris Capirossi and official Energica test rider Alessandro Brannetti.

“We are happy about the test performed at Le Mans with the new prototype,” said Brannetti. “Energica with CRP’s support is definitely heading in the right direction and I’m excited to see what’s in store next.”

Several of CRP Group’s companies have been involved in the development of the motorcycle. CRP Technology, which specializes in laser sintering and Windform composite materials, has been 3D printing aerodynamic parts from Windform, while CRP Meccanica is working on the development of the braking and suspension system. (CRP Meccanica has been working with F1 companies for 45 years as a strategic partner for the production of high-tech mechanical components.) Both companies are working on the development of the new battery.

The next step will be a demo lap at CRP and Energica’s home GP in Mugello, with four-time world champion Max Biaggi as the rider. The Ego Corsa was also taken for a demo lap at the French MotoGP by former MotoGP rider and 250cc race winner, championship contender and multiple podium finisher Randy de Puniet, who reported a positive experience.

“The connection with the throttle and the power delivery are very smooth,” he said. “The bike reaches high speed in a very short amount of time, and that’s a good thing. Another good point of the bike is that the rear is very stable when opening the throttle. It’s a very easy bike to get to grips with, so it would be fun to be racing the Energica Ego Corsa against twenty or more riders on identical machinery. I am really pleased with this experience and grateful for the opportunity; I hope my feedback will help Energica continue in the right direction.”

Intake manifold

CRP Technology will be showcasing its Windform composite materials at the upcoming Engine Expo Europe, which will be taking place from June 5th through June 7th in Stuttgart, Germany. The company will be attending as part of the speaker team and will be discussing how its Windform materials are enabling automotive manufacturers to accelerate the development and boost the performance of vehicles.

Jose Antonio Almenara, CRP Technology’s Additive Manufacturing Representative, will speak on Wednesday June 6th at 12:40 CEST. His presentation is entitled “How to increase engine performance with 3D printing and Windform,” and will include examples from high profile customers who have been using laser sintering technology and Windform materials to manufacture both end-use parts and prototypes with greater complexity and functionality compared to traditional methods, as well as to shorten the overall design and product development process.

Examples will include an intake manifold and how it can be mounted to a live engine for testing or racing, as well as a functional NACA duct that helped to break a long-standing speed record. CRP Technology will also discuss the development of the Energica Ego and Ego Corsa.

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