Bo's Monocurve Scooter: Holding the Future of Tech in its Grasp
by AutoExpert | 2 October, 2023
The streets are awash with electric scooters, most of which are virtually indistinguishable from one another. Bo, however, has stepped up to rewrite the rules by launching its groundbreaking electric vehicle (EV) scooter.
What kind of innovation can we expect from a vehicle that's seemingly so basic? The answer becomes clear when you learn that Bo was co-founded by engineers who cut their teeth at Williams F1 Advanced Engineering, alongside a top-tier designer with a background at Jaguar Land Rover (JLR).
The first remarkable change the team implemented was in the area most frequented by riders: the scooter's construction. Instead of sticking with the traditional layout of a base, handlebars, and a lengthy steering column, Bo’s engineers merged the base and vertical section into a single, unified chassis element. This is what Bo refers to as its "Monocurve" design.
Crafted from forged aluminum, the Monocurve features a sturdy unibody construction that offers ergonomic benefits. One unique feature is its fixed vertical section, which can securely hold bags weighing up to 22 pounds. Since the steering column is integrated into the Monocurve design, the additional weight of bags doesn't compromise steering accuracy or send riders off-course. This has paved the way for Bo to incorporate even more technology, such as their proprietary Safetsteer system.
The Safetsteer system utilizes custom-wound torsion springs hidden within the chassis to automatically re-center the steering after making a turn. This creates a riding experience that is intuitive for beginners while providing smoother handling over uneven terrain.
Designed by engineers with a background in Formula 1 racing, the Monocurve also boasts an "Airdeck" for added comfort. With a larger chassis comes the benefit of expanded battery storage, enabling the scooter to reach a range of up to 31 miles and speeds up to 21 mph.
Based in Bristol, Bo has also refined the scooter’s engine to conquer steep inclines effortlessly. Featuring both a fully regenerative rear brake and a front drum brake, the Monocurve prioritizes efficient and responsive braking.
Weighing in at just 49 pounds, the Monocurve can accommodate riders up to 220 pounds. With production now underway, the first batch of pre-ordered Monocurves, priced at $2,726, is slated for delivery this November.