07 September 2022: The annual award recognises outstanding niche vehicle R&D projects, which accelerate transition to low-carbon forms of transport. Bo Mobility, along with partners Collins Ltd, Airborne Composites Ltd, and Relish Technologies Ltd, was awarded the trophy for the outstanding Boscoot project – the first lightweight, recyclable composite monocoque e-scooter. The project was developed in response to exponential demand for micro-mobility solutions in urban areas and the need for more sustainable alternatives to cars.
The unique design features integrated control systems, developed by Collins, which provide smooth throttle and greatly improved state of charge measurement, plus Safesteer™ and lighting developed by Bo Mobility. Significant improvements have been made by Airborne Composites throughout the project on the development of a composite scooter chassis capable of a high build rate and commercially viable cost.
The final prototype offers a safer and more comfortable riding experience for the user, the outcome of three years of research and development funded through the Niche Vehicle Network. The process began with a feasibility study, followed by a proof-of-concept project and the final late-stage R&D project, delivering the concept to production readiness.
Funding from NVN, has proven crucial in the ongoing development of innovations such as the Boscoot eScooter, equipping entrants with the resources to support innovation, from the idea stage right up to production readiness.
Scott Thompson, Programme Director for the Niche Vehicle Network, said:
"We’re delighted to announce the Bo mobility eScooter project as the winner of the Nick Carpenter Innovation Award for 2022.
"The consortium partners have worked incredibly well together, placing an improved rider experience and safety at the heart of the product design. The effort that has gone into the development of the hinge mechanism, state of charge measurement, throttle mapping, lighting, vehicle storage, integrated navigation and ‘SafeSteer’ system is unlike anything else currently available on the eScooter market today.
"With growing demand for eScooters and other alternative forms of sustainable transport, initiatives such as the NVN Nick Carpenter Innovation award are vital in driving innovation throughout the supply chain, as the UK looks to position itself as a leader in clean automotive technology."
The NVN Nick Carpenter Innovation Award was created in memory of pioneering Technical Director and co-founder of Delta Motorsport, Nick Carpenter, a key figure within the EV industry and NVN advocate. It celebrates the visionaries behind the latest cutting-edge niche vehicle design and sustainable technology.
Harry Wills, CTO for bo Mobility said:
"We are delighted to win this prestigious award that recognises the huge potential of safer, more desirable e-scooters, and we’d like to thank the NVN for their incredible support throughout, as they continue to enable the transport innovation of the next decade."