(EnergyAsia, June 8 2012, Tuesday) — Asia will purchase nearly 382 million two-wheel vehicles including scooters, motorcycles and bicycles in China, India and Southeast Asia nations between 2012 and 2018, according to a new report from US consultant Pike Research.

Nearly 92% of these vehicles will be sold in China, where annual sales will reach 60.2 million in 2018.

These vehicles have become popular as a result of their fuel efficiency and ease of use in congested traffic. In turn, it has led to an annual explosive growth of the electric two-wheel vehicle industry in the region, with annual sales reaching 65.5 million units on account of rapid urbanisation and increasing household incomes.

Pike Research’s analyst Andy Bae said: “The total cost of ownership of e-motorcycles and e-scooters remains low enough that consumers can see payback on the vehicle with a year or two of purchase. That means the market for electric two-wheel vehicles is likely to remain strong in regions with high economic growth rates.

“Growing economic prosperity is creating a greater number of middle and high income level consumers, which in turn is contributing to the growth of the electric two-wheel vehicle market in the region.

In Asia Pacific, two main technologies are used in the e-motorcycle and e-scooter markets: lead-acid and lithium ion (Li-ion) batteries. Lead-acid batteries will continue to be the primary technology used in the region’s electric two-wheel vehicle markets, particularly China, while Li-ion batteries will account for a smaller, but growing, share of the technology used in e-scooters and e-motorcycles.

Pike Research’s report, “Electric Two-Wheel Vehicles in Asia Pacific” provides an in-depth assessment of current market dynamics and the future growth potential for electric bicycles, scooters, and motorcycles in the Asia Pacific region, along with profiles of the key industry players who are defining these rapidly evolving markets. The study examines the market forces that are driving adoption of electric two-wheel vehicles in key countries, including demographic trends, consumer behavior, and government initiatives.

The report also analyses the technology issues surrounding this sector such as the changing mix of battery chemistries and key trends in battery management systems and electric motors.