Tom Montano to pilot Mission One in TTXGP

The winning entry in the world's first carbon-free Grand Prix, the upcoming TTXGP on the Isle of Man, will have a special place in the history books and with the competition heating up, Mission Motors has pulled an ace from their sleeve. The company has announced that the rider aboard the 150 mph-capable Mission One monster will be none other than Tom Montano. He's a chap that's been racing for the past 25 years and has had strong finishes in many different Superbike and Supersport series.

Of course, the road course on the Isle of Man is like no other and Tom has some familiarity with it, having finished 10th there in Supersport and 13th in Senior TT, as well as many other top-20 finishes. Indeed, he holds the distinction of being one of the fastest American around the circuit. So, how does he feel about his chances? After spending some quality time with the bike, Tom himself is feeling quite confident. Says he, "We've put the Mission One through its paces in testing and I'm confident that we'll make history on June 12th." Full press release after the break.

[Source: Mission Motors]

PRESS RELEASE:

MISSION MOTORS SELECTS WINNING RACER TOM MONTANO AS RIDER FOR TTXGP ENTRY
Worlds fastest production electric sportbike to compete at first-ever clean emission Grand Prix

SAN FRANCISCO – April 8, 2009 – Mission Motors, builder of the world's fastest production electric sportbike, the Mission One, today announced the debut of its Motorsports Program, with veteran motorcycle racer Tom Montano set to pilot the Mission One in the inaugural TTXGP, the world's first carbon-free Grand Prix. The race will take place on the Isle of Man on June 12, 2009.

With 25 years of racing experience, Montano, has achieved top-level finishes at the AMA, AFM, WERA, FIM & the Isle of Man. He also holds the distinction of being one of the fastest American around the Isle of Man TT course. Mission Motors will enter the Mission One in the Pro A class of the inaugural TTXGP.

"We are proud to have such an accomplished rider on board for our racing debut. Tom's racing experience and history at the TT coupled with our innovations in electric propulsion will be a winning combination for the team," said Forrest North, Mission Motors Founder and CEO. "This is a grand opportunity to show the world that you can build a zero emissions sportbike without sacrificing power and top performance."

Mission Motors has targeted high performance and iconic design in the development of its first vehicle, the Mission One. With a top speed of 150 mph, a 150-mile range and unparalleled access to torque, the Mission One surpasses the performance figures of other production electric motorcycles and gives chase to gas-powered incumbents. The Mission One's design, created by Yves Behar and fuseproject, blends traditional racing elements with a modern pioneering sensibility.

Montano's previous Isle of Man race experience includes 10th in Supersport, 13th in the Senior TT, and numerous top 20 finishes. His AMA pedigree includes 2001 Pro Thunder Champion, 3rd in 2002 Pro Thunder championship, and numerous top ten finishes in Superbike and Supersport. These are in addition to his multiple AFM class championships of 600 Production, Open Production, and Open Twins.

"I'm thrilled to be a part of Mission Motors' team for this history-making event," said Montano. "We've put the Mission One through its paces in testing and I'm confident that we'll make history on June 12th."

About Mission Motors:
Mission Motors is building the fastest production electric motorcycle in the world. Headquartered in San Francisco, California, the company combines innovative technology, iconic design, and superb performance with the freedom of a zero emissions riding experience. Mission's elite team of engineers is creating the first motorcycle company built on the innovative spirit of the Silicon Valley. The concept is simple: Redefine the world of performance motorcycles. For more information on Mission Motors, visit www.ridemission.com <http://www.ridemission.com> .

About TTXGP
The TTXGP, the world's first clean emission Grand Prix, is due to be held on the Isle of Man TT circuit, mid-TT season, on June 12, 2009. Rules and regulations for the TTXGP together with team registration details can be found at www.ttxgp.com <http://www.ttxgp.com> .