Although not as sleek or refined as one might hope, the new lithium-powered superbike by Lightning Motors is making progress. The newest prototype, with 28 lithium batteries stuffed underneath, can go from 0-60 in about 3 seconds, top out at around 100 mph, and crank out 70 horsepower.

The bike housing the new technology is a Yamaha R1 without, of course, the engine and associated components. Conspicuously absent are tailpipes, transmission elements, radiator, gas cap, and clutch. The stack of lithium batteries, weighing in at about 120 pounds, takes the place of most recognizable mechanical elements. Total conversion of the Yamaha R1 cost about $15000.

The two in charge of the project, Todd Kollin and Richard Hatfield, currently do custom conversions of internal-combustion bikes for select clients. They hope to offer a less-powerful production version of the lithium-powered bike for $6,000 to $8,000 within the next few years.