CES 2024 Highlights Coming Technologies
A Finish Company, Verge introduced what may well be the most sophisticated motorcycle in the world in January at CES 2024. This motorcycle produces 201 horsepower and generates an astounding 885 foot-pounds of torque. Top speed of all Verge motorcycles are governed to similar speeds as the TS Ultra, at 124 mph. It has a highway range of 233 miles, which is better than many ICE sport tourers, and charges from 0 to 80% in 25 minutes.
https://www.vergemotorcycles.com/
It utilizes sensors that no other motorcycle has as yet brought to a production motorcycle. Known as the “Starmatter Intelligence Platform”, it utilizes six cameras (three rear facing, and three forward facing) integrated with radar units front and rear. For the first time, a rider has a true 360 degree view and spatial awareness of the motorcycle’s surroundings. This system then relays information about hazards to the rider via the Starmatter TFT Display.
A GPS module is integrated with an accelerometer to record vehicle data, while cellular, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth compatibility keeps it all integrated. Verge then uses AI to “build powerful machine learning models” that adapt the motorcycle to the users riding habits.
The TS Ultra has traction control and ABS, along with cruise control. Updates to the motorcycle’s AI can be made via “deep core updates” over the air utilizing (OTA) technology.
The motorcycle has two huge digital displays, one an 8” infotainment centre, which only is accessible when stopped and a 6 inch TFT.
These aren’t conceptual motorcycles. They are in production with shipping to clients slated for Q4 of this year.
The price for all this technology is not cheap. The TS Ultra sells for $44,900 in the US. Verge also produces the TS and TS Pro versions, that sell for $26,999 and $29,999 respectively, as well as a limited edition Haakinen Model.
Wired.com were able to take the new TS Ultra for a ride on October 3rd, 2023. Their entire review can be viewed at:
https://www.wired.com/story/first-ride-verge-ts-pro-electric-motorcycle/
Some quotes from their review that reflect the experience are, “Having the engine in the wheel means two key things. First, the entire body of the bike can be given over to a battery pack. This gives the thing a range of up to 233 miles for the top-end TS Ultra model. Verge says it hasn’t even used the most energy-dense batteries it could, so the range could conceivably be made to go even higher. Low energy density batteries also charge quickly. The Ultra can get to 80% percent charge in just 25 minutes with a Level 3 charger.”
Unlike Harley-Davidson’s LiveWire motorcycles, Verge has changed the status quo. Rather than copy the architecture of a gas motorcycle, with batteries where the fuel tank would be, which is inefficient and top-heavy, like the old electric paradigm, Verge’s electric wheel-hub motors offer a thin, doughnut-shaped wheel motor which is mechanically fairly simple. The bike has so few moving parts that the only parts that need servicing are the brakes and the tires. Acceleration on the TS Ultra is 2.5 seconds, 0-60 and top speed is electronically limited to 124 mph.
No robots are employed in the construction of the motorcycles. They are literally hand-built.
A full review and complete specification will follow once Verge brings its product to the market later in 2024.
Once new batteries come to market with dramatically greater energy density, the range of Electric motorcycles should alos increase substantively, as well. This is anticipated by 2026, at which time sales of electric motorcycles are likely to take off as we get closer to mandated sales figures by governments.
Stay tuned. There are major developments in the wind for electric motorcycles.
Thanks to Wired.com and to Verge Motorcycles for the photos and information.
Ciao…
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