For several years, a huge craze for the electrification of transport has been underway. We definitely see it in the automotive sector with the arrival of countless new emerging companies and with the major manufacturers continually innovating. This revolution is also driven by the much higher energy efficiency of electric motors compared to internal combustion engines. Currently, energy storage and charging station networks are constantly progressing to reduce the negative points that initially slowed down this transition. Environmental issues are clearly a cornerstone of this race.
Powersports will also see this change happening soon. In fact, we have noticed for the past few years some new companies tackling this and the large established manufacturers announcing new models available.
ATV Trail Rider had the chance to contact THERON. A proud Canadian company, this young team of enthusiasts has gone into business with their versatile electric quad, the REEVER. With this in mind, the editorial staff of ATV Trail Rider magazine wants to give an important place to this revolution. We invite you to discover them in this interview.
From left to right: Michael Fortin, Bastien Theron, Jasmin Béland, Michael Jomphe and Philippe Lafontaine. 2021.
Who are they?
ATR: Where did the initial idea come from?
Theron: “It came from an obvious failure in an area where electrification should have its full share. Bastien Theron Eng and his father had the idea in 2016 to manufacture a first electric powertrain intended for quad propulsion. This type of vehicle represented the best device to prove the concept and initiate significant production within Canada and greater North America.”
ATR: What was the trigger?
Theron: “The passion clearly set us apart at the very beginning of this adventure. The passion for quads, but also the passion for changing things and pushing innovation further. We were able to gain the confidence of the first investors and initiate the company to develop high-performance products. We knew what to do to give more to quad enthusiasts and also to a whole new clientele: electric vehicle enthusiasts.”
ATR: Tell us about your beginnings until today. How are you settled now?
Theron: “Our story began just as most of the great classics, in a residential garage where dreams closely followed the evolution of our first prototypes. Now we produce hard-tested pre-production vehicles to ensure exemplary quality. We are heading towards significant production, with the first deliveries to individuals in September 2022.
We are based in Shawinigan, Québec, and are in the process of establishing a production plant in larger industrial premises with a second prototype development workshop. THERON plans to open an official mass production plant by 2024 to fall between the ranks of potential large-market players in transportation electrification.”
ATR: How would you describe yourself?
Theron: “We are undoubtedly pioneers in this field which lacked, according to our values, novelty and real satisfaction with common products. Who says pioneer, says visionary, and if it is possible to see further by always doing better, by developing efficiency, quality, safety, and performance, we are already at the forefront. Nevertheless, proximity and authenticity with our customers are priority virtues of trust.”
ATR: What makes your team strong?
Theron: “We are like a family with complementary characteristics. We have promoted tremendous engineering advances combined with an honest engineering approach and a go-getter behavior. Together we bear fruit and are proud of our creations. ”
The current model and technological aspects:
Currently, Theron Sport offers one model, the REEVER. What sets it apart is that it is the first Canadian 100% electric quad on the market. In addition, it is designed and manufactured entirely by hand in Shawinigan, Québec.
The REEVER offers several electric powertrains. It is possible to opt for 40 to 70 horsepower and choose two or four-wheel drive. In addition, battery options will allow a maximum range of up to 180 km. With some packages, the top speed will go up to 120 km/h. To ensure the safety of users, it will always be possible to limit the speed thanks to the software. In terms of warranty, Theron Sport offers three years, unlimited mileage on the powertrain, and one year, unlimited mileage on the entire vehicle.
The dimensions of the REEVER are different from what we currently see in the quad market, with a size that allows it to maintain its agility and remain light in weight.
- Overall width 1255 mm – 49.4 in
- Length: 1902 mm – 74.9 in
- Wheelbase: 1363 mm – 53.7 in
- Ground clearance: 235 mm – 9.3 in
- Weight: 200 to 260 kg (depending on battery option and 2 or 4 wheel drive)
Upon purchase, you will get several standard pieces of equipment to make it a good machine from the start. Thus, you will be entitled to a 7-inch screen used for instrumentation and integrated software, two luggage racks, a seat for two occupants, heated grips, mirrors, a protective skidplate, very powerful LED headlights, and of course, a 120V 15 amp outlet for easy recharging wherever you go.
It will also be possible to configure the REEVER to your liking with several options such as a 20 kW battery extension, 4×4 power-assisted traction, ITP Mudlite wheels and axles, high-end seat material, and finally, the possibility to choose a specific color for the chassis and a wrap on the bodywork.
In addition, a list of accessories includes the following items that you can purchase to make it ready for your tasks and type of ride:
- Windshield
- Winch
- Backrest
- Heated seat
- Snowplow
- High power connection
An exciting feature of the REEVER is its technological aspect. Complete software is present in the 7-inch screen, also serving as instrumentation.
Suggestion: Check out their website: https://www.theron-ev.com/ to learn more about each feature.
What’s coming?
Theron Sport company has not finished surprising us. Pre-orders have started on the website, and the very first REEVERs will be available for delivery at the end of 2022 and the beginning of 2023. Although the company has the wind in its sails with this first model, the team told us that they are already working on designing a new prototype from the comments received from their future buyers. We can’t wait to find out more!
Conclusion
This interview allowed us to get to know a team wanting to innovate and think outside the box. A page of history is taking shape with motorsports’ electrification, and Theron Sport is definitely part of it!
Follow us over the next few months as there will be more stories about the electrification of motorsports, and we can’t keep it a secret that Theron Sport will be there.
And you, what do you think of an electric quad?
Photo sources: KODA Marketing and THERON
