bo M electric scooter
With the increase in the uptake of micro-mobility solutions in our cities, bo have developed a product in the UK which is at the forefront of the transition from cars to micro-mobility for urban areas.
Project Overview
bo has successfully completed three NVN funded projects starting with a feasibility study which looked at shared scooter schemes; followed by a proof-of-concept project which undertook market research to understand whether there was a premium market for electric scooters and developed a prototype of a unique monocoque scooter chassis design; leading onto the final Late-Stage R&D project, which further developed the e-scooter concepts and functions to a pre-production level and pre-orders are now being secured.
Technology
By integrating control systems, developed by Collins, which provide smooth throttle and breaking control, and safesteer ™ and lighting developed by bo, the project partners have developed an electric scooter which provides both a safer, confidence inspiring and more premium riding experience for the user. Significant improvements have been made by Airbourne throughout the project on the development of a composite scooter chassis capable of a high build rate and commercially acceptable cost.
Significant project outcomes
As a result of NVN funded projects, bo successfully progressed from concept stage to a global launch of a premium electric scooter brand. Their launch product, bo M, received widespread media coverage and secured further investment. bo are successfully taking pre-orders for their launch product and are in the process of setting up a distribution route for the US. Pre-orders are also being taken for customers in the UK where, once e-scooters are legal, bo intend to deliver a scooter subscription pilot scheme in London.
Future commercial opportunities
The project has led to further commercial opportunities for the project partners. Collins have developed entirely new expertise in the world of micro-mobility powertrains and have integrated them into electric powertrains. Airborne have successfully secured new commercial projects due to the experience developed through this programme in manufacturing complex thermoplastic components, and Beeline are able to demonstrate the full integration of their hardware into existing vehicles, creating a new revenue stream. Meanwhile, bo is undertaking production validation and working towards building the distribution network for the production launch.
The support from the NVN cannot be underestimated and it represented great foresight given that today it is primarily an export opportunity for e-scooters from the UK. The monitoring has been supportive, whilst applying pressure in the right way at the right times to keep the project on track. This has led to collaborative and positive management of the project where partners felt any issues could be discussed openly with the monitoring officer to identify solutions.
- Harry Wills, CTO, bomobility.