First Drive of the Peugeot 103 Noil: Long Live the Electric Moped? -

Electricity isn’t just reserved for new or recent vehicles. The proof is in this 103 that was serviced by Noil’s workshops.

Retrofitting is a process that involves replacing a thermal engine with an electric motor. The transformation isn’t free, but it allows the vehicle to meet ZFE (low emission zone) requirements. Sometimes, it results in genuinely cool machines, like this Noil 103 that we were able to test for a few kilometers.

As our photos show, the transformation doesn’t ruin the lines of the 103. The electric motor takes place in the middle of the frame, where the original single-cylinder engine was located. The battery is placed on the rear luggage rack. Relatively small, it is removable for easy charging at home. A key lock system reduces the risk of theft.

Once on board, you find the original speedometer, which hasn’t been modified. To get an idea of the remaining range, you can look at the illuminated gauge directly on the battery. Alternatively, note the distance displayed on the odometer at the last charge and do your calculations.

The original speedometer is preserved as is. A starter button appears on the handlebar.

An easy-to-handle moped

To start the electric 103, first turn the battery lock, then press a starter button on the handlebar. There’s no engine noise to confirm it started, but the scooter accelerates well when you grab the throttle. When it’s moving, the 103 Noil isn’t completely silent, as the chain makes a metallic noise. Overall, this isn’t unpleasant; on the contrary, it gives a lively character to the scooter. Despite the battery being two-thirds discharged, our test 103 Noil delivered plenty of acceleration and easily reached the top speed of 45 km/h. Although the weight distribution has changed with the battery at the back, the scooter remains stable and very maneuverable.

Regarding range, expect about 50 km per charge. And if you run out of power, you can always pedal to reach your destination. No modern scooter offers that!

It’s impossible to remove the battery without unlocking it first. The theft risk is therefore limited.

103 Noil electric: what is the price?

Converting a 103 to electric with the Noil kit costs €1,999, but with the retrofit bonus available all over France, the bill drops to €899. For those without a donor scooter, Noil also sells pre-retrofitted 103s, which cost €2,999. This option is less financially advantageous because it doesn’t qualify for the retrofit bonus.

Noil is based in the Parisian suburbs, in Montreuil. To serve the entire country, the company has a network of authorized dealers capable of performing the transformation in about 48 hours.

Besides the 103, Noil also retrofits the original Solex. Subsequently, new retrofit kits will be added to the catalog, including options for the BMW C1, Piaggio MP3, and other smaller Piaggio scooters.