Vietnam motorcycle maker hits pause button

The firm said it has nearly completed refunding deposits to customers who had placed orders for the model.

In an announcement posted on its official social media channels, Nuen Moto stressed that the suspension of the N1-S project does not mean it is halting operations altogether.

Instead, the company said it would redirect its resources toward an entirely new project taking a different approach.

In fact, Nuen Moto offered an early glimpse of its next model shortly after announcing the end of the N1-S project.

Judging from the teaser images, the new motorcycle appears to be aimed at a broader market.

Its rear section features a luggage rack, suggesting a more practical orientation than the N1-S.

Nuen Moto first introduced the N1-S in mid-September 2024.

With specifications that significantly exceeded those of mainstream electric motorcycles available in Vietnam at the time, the model was billed as one of the country's first ‘super’ electric motorcycles.

The N1-S was initially expected to cost VND180-220 million ($6,885-8,415), with production limited to just 200 units.

It quickly attracted attention because of its unconventional positioning and its focus on customers seeking high-performance electric two-wheelers.

Under the original plan, Nuen Moto intended to organize test-ride programs in early 2025 and begin deliveries toward the end of that year.

However, the delivery schedule was later pushed back by roughly a year before the company officially announced the suspension of the project.

The Nuen N1-S stood out with its distinctive Urban Scrambler design.

Rather than competing directly with mass-market electric motorcycles, it was developed around sporty riding characteristics and high performance.

The N1-S was designed to feature a 24kW electric motor, equivalent to roughly 32 horsepower, with peak torque of 190Nm and a claimed top speed of 130kph.

Also, the motorcycle was intended to use an 8kWh battery pack, providing a maximum claimed range of around 200km on a full charge.

The range-topping Founder's Edition was designed to add premium hardware, including Öhlins suspension and Brembo brakes, as well as features such as ABS, cruise control and smart connectivity.

The N1-S had been seen as a potential pioneer for Vietnam's high-performance electric motorcycle segment, particularly as consumers increasingly consider riding performance alongside the lower running costs associated with electric vehicles.

In the premium segment, Vietnamese electric vehicle maker VinFast is also reportedly preparing several electric motorcycles with sporty, touring and maxi-scooter designs.

The rumored models are said to offer performance comparable to motorcycles powered by internal-combustion engines of around 600cc and could reach the market as early as the second quarter of 2027.