Inside the Diem Motors X-01: A Clean-Slate Electric Ride for Modern Riders

Diem Motors, a Danish start-up, has unveiled its first prototype—the X-01—a sleek and innovative electric motorcycle that boldly reimagines e-moto powertrain design. With a focus on cutting-edge engineering and striking aesthetics, the X-01 aims to appeal to a diverse range of riders while setting new standards for the electric two-wheeler world.

Diem X-01 Prototype

The founders—Daniel Kemnitz (CEO), Manvendra Shaktawat (COO), and Angel Lussiana (CTO)—bring experience spanning design studios, motorsport engineering, and major OEM collaborations including BMW, Tata, Piaggio, Red Bull Advanced Technologies, and Hyzon, forming a tight-knit team dedicated to reinventing two-wheeled electrification from the ground up.

Company Background

Diem champions vertical integration, designing and manufacturing its frame, motor, and battery in-house. This approach means they’re not just bolting together parts from different suppliers—they’re engineering the entire system for weight balance, packaging efficiency, and thermal management as a unified whole.

Diem X-01 Prototype

That’s unusual in a young motorcycle company, especially in the e-moto space where many start-ups rely on off-the-shelf components. The team’s manufacturing philosophy also focuses on sustainability, using a lean production model to minimise material waste and simplify the supply chain. This gives Diem more control over quality, allows faster prototyping cycles, and lets them make design changes without waiting on external vendors.

Technical Breakdown – X-01 Concept Specifications

• Motor: Axial-flux hub type for compact, high-torque output versus typical radial-flux motors.

• Power: Around 35 kW (~47 hp), fits Europe’s A2 license category.

• Frame: Single-beam (monocoque-style) chassis tailored for structural integrity and visual cleanliness.

• Swingarm: Single-sided rear arm, allowing a floating rear wheel aesthetic and easier servicing.

• Front Suspension: Inverted Showa fork, delivering precise damping and control.

• Braking: Brembo callipers on dual front discs for strong, consistent stopping power.

• Drivetrain: Direct-drive axial-flux hub motor mounted on the rear wheel — no chain, sprockets, or gearbox.

• Battery: Developed in-house, with range, capacity, and charging specifics yet to be disclosed.

• Instrumentation & Lighting: Full-colour TFT display plus efficient LED lighting.

What Riders Should Note

Diem X-01 Prototype

The X-01’s most interesting mechanical choice is its axial-flux hub motor. Unlike the more common radial-flux hub motors used in many commuter-level and some premium e-motos, an axial-flux design positions the magnetic flux path parallel to the motor’s axis rather than perpendicular. This allows a much shorter, wider motor that can deliver higher torque density in a more compact package.

By integrating this motor, Diem cuts out the need for chains or belts. Some of the general advantages of axial-flux designs include better cooling potential, lower rotational inertia, and flexible packaging. So, the architecture could mean crisper throttle response and more stable handling than typical hub-driven bikes, especially under repeated hard acceleration or braking. For an A2-class machine, that’s a notable departure from the usual “hub motor equals budget commuter” stereotype.

Conclusion – A Thoughtful First Step in Electric Mobility

Diem X-01 Prototype

The Diem Motors X-01 is a concept — but it's also a fresh take on electric motorcycle engineering that challenges conventional approaches. By integrating an axial-flux hub motor, adopting a minimalist monocoque frame, and vertically integrating key components like the battery and drivetrain, Diem is pioneering a new path that could push industry standards forward.

While still a prototype, the X-01’s engineering choices emphasize efficiency and compactness—qualities that, if refined and adopted broadly, could lead to lighter, more agile, and easier-to-maintain electric motorcycles across the sector, with more power and less weight in the rear wheel.

This innovative mindset sets Diem apart as a company to watch. The X-01’s real impact may come not just from its own road presence but from inspiring other manufacturers to rethink how electric motorcycles are designed and built for modern riders.

Ride safe, Folks