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The shiny new VX-1E and VX-2 (pictured) are both debuting in Ireland at the Carole Nash Motorbike and Scooter show running from 27 February to 1 March, and will be sold through Green Machines.

These new models are part of a growing range of urban commute motorcycles designed to be lightweight, speedy and, above all, environmentally friendly.

The VX-2 is an entry-level bike and is the electric equivalent of a 50cc internal combustion engine bike. It weighs 429lbs and can get up to speeds of 80kmph.

How does it power up? Well, it uses a 48V/20A battery charger that will work with a standard home socket and have your motorbike recharged fully in 3.5 to 5 hours (I think that's faster than my mobile phone - Ed)!

The organiser of the Carole Nash Motorbike and Scooter event, Ruth Lemass, said: "Electric vehicles are now providing a realistic alternative for people who use their bikes on a daily basis for short commutes like travelling into and out of town for work.

"It is great to see that there is a wider choice of these types of vehicles now available."

The second motorbike being launched is the VX-1E, a lower-priced version of the original VX-1, which was first brought to market last year. It's a smaller version of the VX-1 with a bit less acceleration and lower top speed, so perfect for those scooting about doing errands in the city.

And if all this wasn't enough to convince you, US TV presenter of the Tonight Show and car nut Jay Leno has given the vectrix Maxi-Scooter a test drive on his website Jay Leno's Garage, and it looks pretty impressive.

Pictured: the Vetrix VX-2

By Marie Boran