The world’s first-ever eSkootr electric model has been unveiled in readiness for the inaugural season, which will begin later this year.
The eSkootr Championship was launched last summer and has former F1 drivers Alex Wurz and Lucas di Grassi, as well as ex-A1GP driver Khalil Beschir, among its management.
The new design, to be known as the eSkootr S1-X, will be capable of reaching race speeds in excess of 60mph and cornering angles of 50 degrees, according to organisers.
It has been developed and designed by engineers from within the motorsport industry, and track-tested by some of the leading two-wheel development riders.
The prototype design was initially developed by Williams Advanced Engineering and includes “a carbon-fibre chassis frame, environmentally friendly natural-fibre bodywork and bespoke, adjustable front and rear suspension elements CNC-machined from aluminium”.
The new series will run on specially-designed circuits 400-1000m long, and will be aimed at evidencing how racing technology can transform everyday urban vehicles – and develop and accelerate pioneering future technologies for the road.
The S1-X will be powered by a lithium-ion battery, which charges two 6kW motors, one housed in each wheel. As in a regular road-going electric scooter, the rider will control the power delivery via a conventional thumb-operated throttle.
However, a torque delivery system will “balance power between front and rear wheels to enhance high-speed stability – and can be overridden by the rider via a boost button for an instant burst of acceleration during races”.
The eSkootr has a 1.5kWh range to contest eSC’s short heats and finals; a maximum weight of 35kg; and can produce 16hp.
“I’m so proud to have helped develop the S1-X – it’s been quite a ride,” said Dakota ‘Kota’ Schuetz, eSkootr’s rider ambassador.
“Even when we started running the first prototype, the chassis felt good; it gave you confidence to push the limits. Further tests have really shown what this first model will be capable of achieving – races are going to be very fast, head-to-head and fun.
“Racing flat-out during a full heat or final is going to be a real achievement – this is a physical sport that requires speed and finesse. I think it’s going to be incredible.”
The eSkootr Championship also announced last week two key hires in Andy Mellor and Dr Cristiana Pace joining as chair of the eSC’s safety and sustainability commission respectively.
It will host its first races this autumn after the full build and supply programme takes place ahead of a pre-season rider selection test, which will be held in early summer.
“Micromobility sport is a step in a new direction for motorsport – and I definitely think we’ve achieved so much with the design of our first eSkootr,” said di Grassi.
“The aim now is to bring this to people: to teams and entrants, to athletes and riders, to fans and families in cities around the world. This really is the start of an exciting new chapter in how we can build the most affordable and sustainable motorsport on the planet, and really make it work for everyone.”
