F1 Tech Comes to the e-Scooter Market

Lessons learned from working on technology for the Williams Formula One racing team have gone into what is being claimed at the world’s most advanced e-scooter.

The British built Bo M is the product of knowledge from three engineers who met while working with Williams Advanced Engineering and features technology not yet seen on another other e-scooter. Heading up this advance is the vehicle’s patent-filed Bo Safesteer active stabilizing system.

This technology is integrated within the Bo chassis, assists and stabilizes the steering through bumps, dips and potholes to keep the rider in comfort and control. The makers point out that e-scooter riders often cite stability as their primary concern when riding over mixed terrain.

Bo’s technology claims to deliver a smooth and stable ride while achieving mechanical simplicity and reliability. The system is based on opposing force from a pair of bespoke wound torsion springs, housed within a mechanism that claims predictable steering correction up to a 50 degree turn angle offering the natural centering dynamic of a larger wheel.

Its electric powertrain features a high torque motor, providing a peak power output of 1,200W and a top speed of up to 35 km/h (21 mph), with a battery capacity of 655Wh delivering a potential maximum range of 50km (31 miles). With the Bo team based in the hilly West Country city of Bristol, hill-climbing performance was a core requirement of powertrain development. The bespoke high current electric motor has been tailored for mid-range torque, boosting efficiency across the broadest rpm-range possible. It has been tested on hills up to 22.5 degrees incline.

The lightweight aluminum chassis, too, has been designed to aid stability and ergonomics. Technical features include a wider handlebar at 580mm (23-ins), a generous 930mm (3ft) wheelbase for more standing room and a 76-degree steering angle for naturally controlled dynamics. Vibration has been addressed with its Airdeck, an engineered elastomer footpad created from 11mm (0.5ins) EVA anti-vibration foam based on the same material technology found in high performance athletic running trainers.

Bo co-founder and CEO Oscar Morgan said: “Moving to production is a momentous moment for our company. The entire Bo team has worked tirelessly with a common aim; to create a product that will consistently delight our riders.”

— Paul Myles is a seasoned automotive journalist based in Europe. Follow him on Twitter @Paulmyles_  and Threads