Ambitious electric motorcycle manufacturer Arc is set to launch a crowdfunding programme to raise funds to put its futuristic Vector model into production next year.

The company, which has plans for a state-of-the-art factory in St Athan in South Wales, claims to already have backing from a number of blue-chip investors, including Jaguar Land Rover’s Venture Capital fund, InMotion Ventures. Now CEO Mark Truman says that they have a number of others interested in getting involved, and he is looking to create a business model similar to that of Spanish football giants Barcelona and Real Madrid, where ownership of the club is held by fans and members.

Truman says: “Since launching the Arc Vector just 16 weeks ago we have been overwhelmed with how positively it has been received by global media, prospects and investors alike. To date we have received over 100 expressions of interest from prospects and we’re now opening up ownership of our transformative business in a similar way to the community ownership model made famous by the likes of Barcelona Football Club. So, whether you’re a motorbike aficionado, a seasoned investor, tech enthusiast or just someone who is passionate about the environment, this is a unique opportunity to join the Arc family and help accelerate our journey towards being an established global leader in the field of electric, recreational and luxury mobility.”

As well as being Arc’s main manufacturing plant, the 6000 square metre St Athan facility has plans for a test track, clubhouse and helicopter landing area for clients arriving by air. With a £90,000 price tag and plans to make just 399, it is fair to say that the Vector is aimed at a certain kind of rider…

Should it go into production, the Arc Vector (which was shown at last year’s Motorcycle Live show) will be the world’s most advanced motorcycle. It features a lightweight carbon fibre chassis and a unique monocoque design that incorporates the batteries. The bike comes with an integrated riding jacket and crash helmet, which are packed with technology that includes a heads-up display, integrated armour and haptic sensory technology, which can communicate to the ride through the sense of touch.