Shockwave Motors, a veteran-owned and SAE-certified motorcycle manufacturer, is making waves in the automotive industry with its innovative approach to sustainable transportation.
Founded by John McMillian, Carrie Fair, and Normand Rheault, and headquartered in Russellville, Tennessee, the disruptive company focuses on producing affordable, eco-friendly, and fun-to-drive electric vehicles designed for daily commuting. The company’s flagship products, the Defiant EV3 Roadster™ and Draco Sports Trike™, are testaments to its commitment to innovation, efficiency, and sustainability.
Milestones and Achievements
Shockwave Motors has achieved several significant milestones since its inception:
- 2023: Secured $6 million in pre-orders and was named Impact Company of the Year by DotCom Magazine.
- 2019: Reached the Top Ten Finalist position in the National Cleantech Open Competition.
- 2018: Won the Southeast Region in the Cleantech Open Accelerator.
- 2017: Received the Excellence in Entrepreneurship Award at TiECon Detroit.
- 2016: Awarded Most Significant Innovation in Electric Vehicles by IDTechEx.
These accolades highlight Shockwave Motors’ relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation in the electric vehicle sector.
Founders’ Vision and Inspiration
John McMillian’s passion for electric vehicles dates back to his childhood. Recounting an early memory, he recalls, “I remember when I was just 5 years old my Dad and I were sitting on the kitchen floor cleaning up an old car starter motor. His idea was to mount it on my little red pedal tractor and turn it into an electric riding toy. Electric riding toys are everywhere today – but not in 1958! This sure made an impression on me.”
Carrie Fair and Normand Rheault also bring their unique perspectives and expertise to the company, contributing to the innovative designs and strategic direction of Shockwave Motors.
The Defiant EV3 Roadster™ and Draco Sports Trike™
Both the Defiant EV3 Roadster™ and Draco Sports Trike™ are three-wheeled electric vehicles designed to meet the needs of daily commuters. Their unique design and features make them standout options in the EV market.
Efficient Design: The three-wheeled design of the Defiant EV3 Roadster™ and Draco Sports Trike™ reduces rolling resistance at low speeds and allows for a more aerodynamic body, enhancing performance at higher speeds. The Roadster has a top speed of about 70 MPH and the Draco tops out at about 90 MPH. The vehicles’ stability and design were validated by the Québec Advanced Transportation Institute, underscoring their reliability and safety.
Battery Technology: The Roadster and Trike use Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries, which are known for their stability and safety. Unlike traditional Lithium-Ion batteries, which can be prone to explosive reactions under stress, LiFePO4 batteries are much safer. John emphasizes this point, mentioning, “These are the most stable of the Lithium chemistry. They are not prone to explosions, and I have seen video of steel spikes being driven through the cells and nothing happens!”
Range and Charging: Addressing the common issue of range anxiety, both vehicles achieve approximately 100 miles on a single charge, making them ideal for the average daily commute of 30 miles. Additionally, they can be fully charged in about 8 hours using a standard 120-volt outlet, eliminating the need for expensive and complex charging infrastructure.
Affordability: One of the key selling points of the Roadster and Trike is their affordability. With a price tag of $24,950 for the Roadster and $19,950 for the Draco, they are significantly cheaper than many other electric vehicles on the market, even before federal and state incentives are applied. This makes electric vehicle ownership accessible to a broader audience.
Safety Features: Safety is a paramount focus for Shockwave Motors. Both vehicles are equipped with seat belts, shoulder harnesses, and a tubular steel roll-bar-like protection system. However, because of the Draco’s tadpole design (two wheels in the front), only the Roadster™ has front and rear crumple zones and the Passive Head-on Crash Avoidance Design™, which reduces the likelihood of head-on collisions.
Tackling Barriers to EV Adoption
Shockwave Motors has systematically addressed the common barriers to electric vehicle adoption:
- Range Anxiety: By providing vehicles with a reliable range and easy charging from a standard 120-volt outlet, Shockwave Motors ensures that daily commutes are stress-free.
- High Purchase Costs: The affordable price of the Defiant EV3 Roadster™ and Draco Sports Trike™ makes them accessible to a wider audience, democratizing electric vehicle ownership.
- Battery Safety: Using Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries enhances the safety and reliability of the vehicles.
- Charging Infrastructure: The ability to charge the vehicles using a standard 120-volt outlet eliminates the need for expensive home charging setups.
- Manufacturing Carbon Footprint: The vehicles’ design and manufacturing processes result in a significantly smaller carbon footprint compared to traditional electric vehicles. The chassis is made from tubular steel and the body is fiberglass. The battery is 1/5th the size of a typical EV, significantly reducing the manufacturing environmental impact.
Market Strategy and Consumer Engagement
Shockwave Motors has adopted a grassroots approach to market its vehicles. Over the past few years, the company has showcased the Roadster at various car shows, expos, and Earth Day events across the country. This direct engagement with potential customers has been instrumental in building interest and securing pre-orders.
John explains, “We have personally talked to thousands of people. We’ve also done a relatively small amount of advertising on Facebook. The vast majority of people like what we are doing and that we are focused on a niche where EVs are really needed – the daily commute.”
This strategy has paid off, as evidenced by the over $6 million in pre-orders the company has secured.
Environmental Impact
Shockwave Motors is committed to sustainability and reducing environmental impact. The Roadster and Trike’s efficient design allows them to travel about 50 miles on the amount of electricity needed to produce one gallon of gasoline. Additionally, the manufacturing process for the vehicles is designed to minimize their carbon footprint, utilizing fewer components and materials than traditional vehicles.
The environmental benefits extend to the vehicles’ operation. With the sale of the first 500 Roadsters, the company anticipates saving 15,000 barrels of crude oil annually and avoiding nearly 3,000 metric tons of CO2 emissions.
Future Plans and Product Line Expansion
Looking ahead, Shockwave Motors has ambitious plans to expand its product lineup. The company is developing several new vehicles, including:
- Draco Sports Trike™: A two-person sports trike currently undergoing prototype testing.
- Last Mile Delivery Van: A vehicle designed for efficient and sustainable urban deliveries.
- Two-Person Pickup: A compact pickup truck for light-duty use.
- Four-Person Sedan: A practical and affordable family car.
Additionally, the company plans to introduce the Auxiliary Power Trailer™, designed to provide power to the EV on the road or in emergency situations and to power critical appliances around the home.
John is optimistic about the future, stating, “The three-wheeled design promises a blend of affordability and practicality that perfectly suits the needs of today’s commuters. The focus on fun and a commitment to sustainability makes our EVs a breath of fresh air in the electric car market.”
Equity Crowdfunding and Investment Opportunities
Shockwave Motors recently launched an equity crowdfunding program to raise funds for the next steps in production. John highlights the advantages of investing in the company, noting that as an SAE-certified motorcycle manufacturer, Shockwave Motors is not as capital-intensive as an automobile manufacturer. This makes it a more attractive investment opportunity.
“With our focus on the daily commuter and not trying to be all things to all people, we are set to disrupt the paradigm of sustainable urban transportation,” he explains.
The investment opportunity is open to anyone and you can learn more and invest on the Title3Funds.com platform. Scan the QR Code to invest in an electric future!
Shockwave Motors is poised to revolutionize the electric vehicle market with its innovative, efficient, and affordable electric vehicles. By addressing common barriers to EV adoption and focusing on the needs of daily commuters, the company is well positioned to make a significant impact on both the environment and the automotive industry. With a strong foundation of achievements, a clear vision for the future, and a commitment to sustainability, Shockwave Motors is set to drive the next wave of electric vehicle innovation.
For more information on Shockwave Motors and their innovative vehicles, visit their official website.
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