How does it compare?
Speed
When it comes to speed, the LIGHTNING LS-218 tears down the track with a top whack of 218 mph (350 km/h). This leaves the Zero SR/S cruising behind at a respectable 124 mph (200 km/h), while the Harley-Davidson LiveWire suspects it’s doing great at 110 mph (177 km/h). The Energica Ego is no slouch either, clocking 150 mph (241 km/h), and the BMW CE 04 is undoubtedly more modest, showing a top speed of 75 mph (120 km/h).
Range
Range, dearies, is where it can get tricky. The LIGHTNING LS-218 sports a practical 100 miles (160 km) on a full charge. Meanwhile, the Zero SR/S stretches its legs to 161 miles (259 km). The Harley-Davidson LiveWire, with its unmistakable grumble, does commendably at 146 miles (235 km). The Italian stallion Energica Ego offers 120 miles (193 km), while the sleek BMW CE 04 hums along comfortably with an urban range of 80 miles (129 km).
Power
Power is the sinew on the bone, and the LIGHTNING LS-218 flexes with 150 kW (200 HP). Across the arena, the Zero SR/S provides a steady 82 kW (110 HP), and the Harley-Davidson LiveWire churns out 78 kW (105 HP). The Energica Ego doesn’t hold back with its brawny 107 kW (145 HP), while the BMW CE 04 offers a refined 31 kW (42 HP).
Charging Time
Charging time is often the clincher. The LIGHTNING LS-218 takes about 30 minutes on a DC fast charge to get back on the road. The Zero SR/S, on the other hand, requires around an hour with a fast charger. The Harley-Davidson LiveWire asks you for 40 minutes to juice up to 80% via DC fast charging. Our feisty Energica Ego needs an hour to hit 85% on a fast charger, while the BMW CE 04 demands 4 hours via a standard household outlet or about 1 hour on a quick charge.
Price
And, the wallet-sack empties. The LIGHTNING LS-218 stands tall at $46,888 (£33,680 or €39,800). The Zero SR/S won’t clean you out at $19,995 (£14,370 or €16,980). The Harley-Davidson LiveWire asks $29,799 (£21,420 or €25,360), while the Energica Ego will set you back $34,500 (£24,820 or €29,370). Bamboozle you not, the BMW CE 04 comes in at a palatable $11,795 (£8,480 or €10,000).

