British folding e-bike manufacturer Hummingbird has launched what it claims is the lightest folding e-bike in the world at 10.3kg.

The new e-bike has been created in partnership with Prodrive – the company responsible for overseeing the engineering side of successful motor racing projects like Aston Martin’s endurance racing programme among others in rallying and touring cars – with the company lending its extensive engineering expertise to the project.

The bike’s frame is based on the 6.9kg carbon folding bike that Hummingbird already makes, but with the addition of a 250w motor and 160Wh battery set within the rear wheel hub that brings the weight up by just 3.4kg.

The power unit will provide a range of over 30km, with the bike limited to 25km/h to meet UK regulations on standard pedelecs. Recharge times are quoted as 2:30hrs, which Hummingbird says removes the need to carry a spare battery around with you.

The brand has also developed a ‘Bitride’ app that allows the user to monitor performance and usage through a Bluetooth connection, and tap into online diagnosis services and social media. Handily, it also allows remote connection to the locking mechanism built into the rear wheel should the bike be stolen.

The man behind the Hummingbird concept, designer Petre Craciun, said: “We have spent the last year determining how to build on what we believe is already a truly remarkable product [in the original Hummingbird carbon folding bike].

“[We think that] the introduction of an electric model that weighs only 10.3kg is a breakthrough for the struggling urban commuter.”

If you want to get your hands on one, the good news is that Hummingbird is accepting orders for them now with models starting at £4,495.