World’s First Solid-State Electric Bike Features Compact PC Fans for Cooling

Key Takeaways

Donut Lab reveals details about the Verge TS Pro Gen2, claiming it is the first solid-state electric bike.
The company has not provided proof of its battery chemistry, leading to skepticism from experts.
The bike offers rapid charging, reaching 80% in approximately 11 minutes, while boasting impressive energy specifications.

Overview of the Verge TS Pro Gen2

Donut Lab, a Finnish startup, has unveiled more details regarding the Verge TS Pro Gen2, the world’s purported first production-ready solid-state electric bike. In a recent YouTube video, co-founder and CTO Ville Piippo elaborated on the unique battery configuration designed to power this motorcycle, which claims to be the fastest-charging model available.

Despite the excitement surrounding the Verge TS Pro Gen2, Donut Lab has yet to substantiate its ambitious claims, including a startling energy density of 400 watt-hours per kilogram, a lifespan of 100,000 charge cycles, and the elimination of rare-earth materials. Critics point out that the company hasn’t provided sufficient evidence, such as patents or validation of its chemistry. As a result, many experts remain doubtful about the accuracy of Donut’s assertions.

The latest information shared in the video focuses on the assembly of the bike’s solid-state battery pack, which utilizes 192 of Donut Lab’s 94 Wh cells. The Standard Range version offers about 18 kilowatt-hours of nominal capacity, while a Long Range version boasts approximately 30 kWh. Both versions utilize the same battery enclosure, demonstrating a compact design.

The 18 kWh model features a 2P 96S configuration—two cells in parallel and 96 in series—resulting in a maximum system voltage of around 400V. The design includes four modules stacked with heat transfer plates in between, while air-cooled elements, such as heatsinks and small fans, manage temperatures effectively.

In terms of charging capabilities, the Verge TS Pro Gen2 can achieve peak rates of about 100 kW with DC fast charging, taking roughly 11 minutes to go from 10% to 80% charge. A top-up from 10% to 90% is completed in under 15 minutes, though this is notably less than the 200 kW previously touted by Donut Lab. The bike’s design necessitates air cooling, which likely limits its charging speed compared to liquid-cooled vehicles.

With a charging capacity of over 5C, the Verge TS Pro stands out in terms of performance, especially when compared to most modern electric vehicle batteries, which usually operate below a 4C rate. The bike is claimed to be the fastest-charging motorcycle available, potentially adding about 12 miles of range for every minute spent charging, with an estimated total range of 217 miles.

Although production of the upgraded electric bike is reported to have begun last month, the lack of independent testing on the solid-state Verge TS Pro Gen2 raises questions about its performance and reliability. As details continue to emerge, the electric motorcycle sector is watching closely to see if Donut Lab can deliver on its promises.

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