Innovation in ski touring takes a new turn. The Swiss company E-Outdoor introduces a technology that could transform the way we climb mountains. Its electric skis, called E-Skimo, are inspired by electric bikes and aim to facilitate ascents while reducing the effort required by skiers.
The E-Skimo skis feature a gearless hub motor powered by a 220 Wh lithium battery. This system drives a rubber tread, similar to that of snowmobiles, attached under the ski. It helps propel the skier uphill without slipping backward.
The motor is activated based on the ski's position, the heel angle, and the skier's weight, using a combination of sensors and GPS. This ensures uphill assistance without compromising balance. A six-axis inertial unit precisely detects when to engage each motor.
The reported results are impressive. The system allegedly enables ascents up to 80% faster than with traditional skis while reducing effort by 30%. This advancement makes ski touring more accessible.
Once at the summit, the skier can detach the electric components in less than a minute. These removable parts are stored in a provided bag, allowing for downhill enjoyment with classic skis. The battery, meanwhile, offers about three hours of autonomy depending on weather conditions.
This technology, designed for ski mountaineering, is not yet available for purchase. E-Outdoor plans to collaborate with ski manufacturers to integrate this innovation into their products. Such partnerships could make these electric skis accessible to a broader audience.
The idea behind the E-Skimo is to democratize ski touring by reducing the effort needed to reach the summits. The designers view this technology as a way to expand the horizons of this discipline, making ascents easier while preserving the thrill of the descent.
This innovation will be unveiled at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas next January. The event is one of the world's largest showcases for new technologies, and the E-Skimo will make its grand debut there.
The market for electric skis could well evolve thanks to products like this, which integrate modern technologies to simplify mountain sports. The enthusiasm surrounding this innovation could redefine the landscape of ski touring in the years to come.
Article author: Cédric DEPOND