Industry News
The popularity of electric conveyance has been growing for some time. Not just cars and bikes, but e-scooters, e-skateboards, Onewheels, electric hydrofoils, and even the world’s first e-snowboard are on the market. It’s easy to see why given the ability to defy gravity effortlessly with a smooth ride, without fatigue, and with maximum fun factor.
Now the same technology will allow you to go skiing even when there is no snow on the ground with the SKWHEEL-ONE, the world’s first electric skis. The name is a mashup of “ski” and “wheel” and it works exactly as you probably imagine. It comes from the French company SKWHEEL, whose aim is to make skiing available to anyone year-round. The product is currently crowdfunding on Indiegogo and has already reached 148% of its funding goal. Preorders are available now and the company is confident to start production in April and have delivery by June.
Product Details
SKWHEEL-ONE is a lot like strapping two electric scooters to your feet. Motorization is via a four-wheel drive system with 600 watts per motor, for 2,400 watts of total power combined. With that power and versatility, it can tackle urban asphalt, mountain trails, or sandy beaches. On a single charge, it will last 18 miles and for longer routes, users can easily replace the Lithium-ion removable batteries. The batteries can be quickly charged again in only two hours.
A multi-functional, LED screen handle is used for acceleration with four different speeds and provides electronic braking. Since safety is paramount, mechanical braking is also built in for reliable emergency stops and controlled, stable deceleration. The control also has a telescopic handle that connects the skis so they can be transported just like pulling a suitcase. Additionally, the handle is used to turn the 12-volt front and rear lights of the skis on and off. This combines safety and style, as it illuminates your path and signals your presence to others.
The maximum speed is an impressive 50 miles per hour, but it is factory-limited to 15 miles per hour to ensure safety and compliance. The company claims that with its quick start guide and tutorial, it only takes 20 minutes to get past the initial learning curve.
With a composite and carbon fiber innovative chassis, the SKWHEEL weighs in at 27.5 pounds and offers superior flexibility and strength compared to standard aluminum. Patented swivel 175mm inflatable tires deliver authentic glide and are designed to accurately mimic skiing sensations. This innovative pivot system allows you to carve with precision and fluidity on any surface, offering unmatched freedom of movement. Additionally, a snowboard-inspired binding system ensures an excellent foothold for total control and can be worn with regular shoes.
Cost
The Indiegogo pre-order price is 29% off the retail price at $1,847 and includes free worldwide shipping. This includes the regular charger, user manual, and removable battery pack. Discounts are being offered for purchasing multiple units with a double pack costing $3,346 and a family pack of five costing $8,474. All units are designed and assembled in France, reflecting the company’s commitment to quality and innovation. The company stands by the product with a two-year warranty that covers electronic and mechanical parts and labor.
The SKWHEEL seems like an incredible innovation that brings to life a world where ski slopes are not limited to snowy mountains, but extend to city streets, beaches, and trails and can be enjoyed year-round. Boundaries are redefined, where every street becomes your slope, and every journey becomes an adventure. No more being depressed by the summer blues waiting for ski season to start or dreading the long drive to the ski hill. Of course, there will be differences compared to actual skiing, as it would be impossible to mimic the same movements and terrain, but it certainly is a compelling option for when the real thing isn’t feasible.
It’s always a good idea to exercise caution when patronizing crowd-funding platforms, but this may be too good to pass up.
