F1 champ's shock new £70,000 electric motorbike 

May 14, 2023

Finnish electric motorcycle brand Verge has teamed up with two-time Formula 1 world champion Mika Häkkinen to design a limited edition version of its TS pro machine.

Verge unveiled its TS model in early 2019, with the e-motorbike featuring a striking design that uses an innovative hubless rear wheel.

Production for the brands TS and TS Pro electric motorbikes started last year with deliveries expected to begin during the summer months.

Rather than incorporate a more conventional rear hub motor and battery, Verge took on the daunting task of creating a radical hubless unit that is pretty complex in its design.

Verge developed the hubless powertrain using electromagnets in the rim which repel one another causing the outer portion of the rim to turn and hence drive the bike forward.

Due to the Verge going without a chain, belt or gearbox, the machine is more makes more efficient. And with less parts, this saves on maintenance costs.

The only downside is that the rear wheel is very wide therefore a wider tyre is required.

The firm currently has three models in its line-up: the entry level TS, the TS Pro, and the range-topping TS Ultra.

Verge's TS Ultra model – revealed at this year's CES show in Las Vegas – is the firm's most powerful model with a power output of 150kW and 85lb ft of torque.

The Häkkinen Edition is based on the firm's TS Pro model and features carbon fibre fairings and a ceramic coating to protect the bike against scratches,

Full black shock absorbers, and a dark grey and silver colour scheme complete the Verge machine's look.

Powered by a large 20.2kWh battery, the new machine has a power output 102kW and an astonishing 737 lb ft torque, helping it along to a 0-62mph time of 3.5sec.

Thanks to its fast charging capabilities, the Verge can be charged in up to 35 minutes and offers up to 350km (217 miles) of range.

Commenting on the launch of the new e-motorbike, Häkkinen said: "I know from experience what it takes to develop a vehicle that embodies speed, precision and elegance.

"I wanted to design the bike right down to the smallest detail rather than just picking the colour. Each bike is numbered and features an exclusive signature. This electric superbike represents the future of riding and is a testament to a life lived to the fullest!"

As a limited-run bike with only 100 units available, the Häkkinen Edition commands a hefty premium over the standard TS Pro, starting from €80,000 (£69,600).

The bike is available to buy online in Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Finland, Estonia and Monaco.