Have you ever imagined the thrill of four-wheeling across challenging terrain while feeling an adventurous spirit coursing through you, only to be confronted with the sad reality that not everyone can partake in all outdoor activities? This reality was faced by wheelchair users, a group of daring explorers who, despite their enthusiasm, were confined by the limitations of conventional mobility aids. However, the narrative is changing as a result of Exotek’s innovative ideas and its revolutionary creation, the Exoquad. This four-wheeler represents human creativity and the unwavering drive to achieve the seemingly unattainable. It is more than just an automobile.
The story of Exoquad begins with two visionary individuals.
Sigurd Groven and Mattias Storvestre recognized a market niche and an opportunity to significantly impact the lives of numerous people. Driven by a personal connection, Storvestre, a CAD designer and aviation mechanic, set out on this adventure. A task that many would find intimidating, he looked for a mobility tool that would allow his physically unable wife to go on outdoor trips with him. Conversely, Groven, a physical therapist who had a T1 total spinal cord damage in a mountain bike accident, expressed dissatisfaction with the outside mobility options that were accessible to him after his injury. Their desire to develop something ground-breaking was inspired by their mutual love of the great outdoors and personal encounters with the shortcomings of current mobility aids.
The Exoquad is the fruit of their labor, a marvel of engineering designed to empower wheelchair users to independently explore even the most challenging outdoor environments.
The concept is like a ray of hope to light up the path for better inclusivity in outdoor recreation. The vehicle is designed to be a real master class wherein hardness meets softness with refined technology for unparalleled experiences. The Exoquad, from two-wheel drive to four-wheel drive, is ranged to meet every level of adventure that users incur, ensuring the thrill of the great outdoors will be accessible by all.
The Norwegian startup Exotek is behind this extraordinary endeavor, serving as a very strong example of how technology can be used to break down barriers. Founders Storvestre and Groven are not just entrepreneurs but pioneers in the most literal way, driven by a mission to place the physically challenged right at the heart of outdoor adventures. This spirit flows from the way the Exoquad’s sturdy design allows for adaptability in every sense. It’s not just about giving a new means, it is about redefining a concept- challenging the status quo and opening up the world of adventure to those that have long been excluded from it.
The Exoquad is more than a vehicle; it’s a lifeline to the great outdoors for those who have longed to experience it but were held back by physical limitations.
It represents advancement and is a tangible representation of the idea that everyone should be able to experience adventure. An important step toward a more inclusive society where physical limitations are not viewed as a hindrance to the thrilling escape of outdoor exploration is the development of the Exoquad. Let’s keep in mind the innovative and inclusive spirit that made this incredible vehicle possible as we dig deeper into the Exoquad’s technical specifications and capabilities in the following section. One adventure at a time, the Exoquad is transforming lives in addition to the game.
Let’s dive into the heart of what makes the Exoquad such a game-changer in the world of outdoor adventure for wheelchair users – its specs!
With two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive configuration options, the Exoquad demonstrates its adaptability to a range of terrains and user requirements. With the roll bar removed, the vehicle’s measurements are a small 170 cm in length, 90 cm in width, and 80 cm in height. This elegant design guarantees stability in rugged terrain and agility in confined spaces, demonstrating Exotek’s commitment to making outdoor recreation accessible and pleasurable for everybody.
The sturdy 6061 tubular aluminum frame that forms the foundation of the Exoquad’s design is enhanced by a roll bar for increased safety. This material selection achieves the ideal strength-to-weight ratio, making the 4WD variant a sturdy yet comparatively light vehicle weighing 90 kg. The Exoquad is a dependable companion for the most adventurous of journeys because safety and durability were unquestionably given first priority throughout construction.
The Exoquad’s tires and wheels are yet another standout feature. From sandy beaches to muddy paths, the vehicle’s 20 x 4-inch knobby Kenda fatbike tires provide the best possible grip and traction. No matter the weather, this is essential for keeping stability and control.
In terms of stopping power, the Exoquad has Tektro Twin+ hydraulic disc brakes, which offer dependable and effective braking even in the most difficult conditions. This feature is especially crucial for user safety since it gives them the assurance that the car can stop when needed.
Both the front and rear DNM adjustable coil shocks in the suspension system have a travel range of 170 to 200 mm. This makes it possible to ride over barriers and bumps smoothly, lessening the impact on the user and improving the experience as a whole. Users may adapt the suspension to suit various terrains and personal preferences thanks to the shocks’ adjustable design.
Depending on the configuration selected, the Exoquad is powered by a number of motors. Two 3.5-kW rear hub motors, each producing a potent 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) of torque, are included with the 2WD version. The 4WD variant equips both front wheels with 600W hub motors (60 Nm/44 lb-ft) for those who want even more power. Because of the great strength and control this system offers, users can easily navigate difficult terrain and steep inclines.
A detachable 48V/2.1-kWh lithium battery powers all of the motors, giving you the energy you need for prolonged outdoor excursions. This battery is a considerate feature that optimizes the vehicle’s efficiency because it allows riders of the 4WD model to switch to 2WD mode on level terrain to conserve power. The top speed, which strikes a compromise between safety and excitement, is 6 km/h (4 mph) in 4WD and 15 km/h (9 mph) in 2WD. Adventures won’t end suddenly because of power problems because the battery can last four to six hours of mixed-mode riding on a single 7-hour charge.
For those who prefer the raw thrill of gravity-assisted rides, the Exogravity version of the Exoquad steals the spotlight.
It has comparable specifications but is powered solely by downhill motion rather than a motor or battery. With its reduced weight of 49 kg, this version is even recommended for activities like dogsledding and is perfect for thrill-seekers seeking unrestrained downhill descents.
The starting prices for these cutting-edge cars are €7,199 ($7,814) for the Exogravity, €12,999 ($14,109) for the 2WD Exoquad, and €15,999 (about US$17,365) for the 4WD Exoquad. The flexibility, adventure, and inclusivity that these vehicles provide make the seemingly large expenditure a little one.
A world of outdoor adventure that was previously unattainable for many is made possible by the Exoquad’s meticulous and well-considered design. For wheelchair users, its power, safety, and versatility make it more than simply a vehicle; it’s a doorway to adventure and a key to the wide outdoors. The Exoquad is a representation of inclusivity and technological advancement, whether it is used to traverse difficult terrain or just to take in the beauty of the natural world. Its existence proves that the spirit of discovery has no boundaries, not only by challenging the limits faced by wheelchair users but also by redefining the possibilities of adventure.
