The New Zealand Defence Force is exploring greener transport as it trials electric utility bikes supplied by a local company.

The NZDF will test four specially built 2x2 bikes from Tauranga-based UBCO for their suitability for tasks such as reconnaissance and surveillance, airfield security and other transport roles.

The 65kg bikes are much lighter than normal military motorcycles, have an electric motor in each wheel, and with regenerative braking can travel up to 120km on a single charge.

The 12-month trial package includes a camouflage colour scheme, extra battery packs, a trailer and a range of spare parts.

The Navy, Army and Air Force will each trial the bikes, which in the general market are aimed at farmers, hunters, emergency services and others.

'Obviously they are more environmentally friendly, and we will see if they are also more military friendly,” says Lieutenant Colonel Brad Gallop.

'We will see how good they are for carrying equipment where a soldier on foot might not be able to.

'Electric vehicles offer some advantages over normally fuelled vehicles. They are quiet, don't give off exhaust or heat, and aren't powered by highly flammable liquids.

'They are simple to maintain and onboard computers will be able to record a range of information about how the bike is used.

'They will be limited to 50kmh and have lower training requirements to that of a motorcycle.”

The trial is part of the Defence Force's wider goal of becoming a more sustainable operation, which also fits with the Government's goal of having 64,000 EVs on New Zealand roads by the end of next year.