Have you ever imagined the thrill of four-wheeling through rugged terrains, feeling the rush of adventure coursing through your veins, only to be confronted with the harsh reality that not all outdoor experiences are accessible to everyone? This was the reality faced by many wheelchair users, a group of intrepid adventurers who, despite their eagerness, found themselves sidelined due to the limitations of conventional mobility aids. However, the narrative is changing, thanks to the innovative minds behind Exotek and their groundbreaking creation, the Exoquad. This four-wheeler is not just a vehicle; it’s a testament to human ingenuity and the indomitable spirit to make the impossible, possible.
The story of Exoquad begins with two visionary individuals.
Mattias Storvestre and Sigurd Groven, who saw a gap in the market and a chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of many. Storvestre, a flight mechanic and CAD designer, embarked on this journey motivated by a personal connection. He sought a mobility aid that would enable his physically challenged wife to accompany him on outdoor adventures, a quest that many would find daunting. On the other side, Groven, a physical therapist with a T1 complete spinal cord injury sustained from a mountain biking accident, was left dissatisfied with the outdoor mobility solutions available post-injury. Their shared passion for the outdoors and firsthand experiences with the limitations of existing mobility aids fueled their determination to create something revolutionary.
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.
Its conception is a beacon of hope, illuminating the path toward greater inclusivity and accessibility in outdoor recreation. The vehicle’s design is a masterclass in innovation, blending rugged functionality with sophisticated technology to offer an unparalleled experience. Available in both two- and four-wheel-drive configurations, the Exoquad caters to a diverse range of adventurers, ensuring that the thrill of the great outdoors is accessible to all.
Norwegian startup Exotek, the brains behind this extraordinary project, stands as a shining example of how technology can be harnessed to break down barriers. The company’s founders, Storvestre and Groven, are not just entrepreneurs; they are pioneers in the truest sense, driven by a mission to integrate the physically challenged into the heart of outdoor adventures. Their dedication to this cause resonates through every aspect of the Exoquad, from its robust design to its adaptive capabilities. This isn’t merely about providing a new means of transportation; it’s about redefining what’s possible, about challenging the status quo, and opening up a world of adventure to those who were previously excluded.
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’s a symbol of progress, a physical manifestation of the belief that adventure should be inclusive and accessible to all. The creation of the Exoquad marks a significant milestone in the journey towards a more inclusive world, one where physical challenges are not seen as a barrier to the exhilarating escape of outdoor exploration. As we delve deeper into the technical specs and capabilities of the Exoquad in the next section, let us remember the spirit of innovation and inclusivity that brought this remarkable vehicle to life. The Exoquad is not just changing the game; it’s changing lives, one adventure at a time.
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!
The Exoquad, with options for both two- and four-wheel-drive configurations, showcases its versatility and adaptability to various terrains and user needs. The vehicle’s dimensions are a compact 170 cm in length, 90 cm in width, and 80 cm in height (excluding the roll bar). This sleek design ensures maneuverability in tight spots and stability in rough terrains, a testament to Exotek’s dedication to creating an accessible and enjoyable outdoor experience for everyone.
At the core of the Exoquad’s design is a robust 6061 tubular aluminum frame, complemented by a roll bar for added safety. This choice of material strikes the perfect balance between strength and weight, resulting in a durable yet relatively lightweight vehicle at 90 kg for the 4WD version. Safety and durability are, without a doubt, paramount in the construction of the Exoquad, making it a reliable companion for the most daring of adventures.
The wheels and tires are another highlight of the Exoquad’s design. Outfitted with 20 x 4-inch knobby Kenda fatbike tires, the vehicle ensures optimal grip and traction on various surfaces, from sandy beaches to muddy trails. This is crucial for maintaining control and stability, no matter the outdoor conditions.
When it comes to stopping power, the Exoquad is equipped with Tektro Twin+ hydraulic disc brakes, providing reliable and efficient braking even in the most challenging environments. This feature is particularly important for ensuring the user’s safety, offering peace of mind that the vehicle can come to a halt whenever necessary.
The suspension system features front and rear DNM adjustable coil shocks, offering 170 to 200 mm of travel. This allows for a smooth ride over bumps and obstacles, reducing the impact on the user and enhancing the overall experience. The adjustable nature of the shocks also means that users can customize the suspension to their liking, catering to different terrains and personal preferences.
Powering the Exoquad are multiple motors, tailored to the chosen configuration. The 2WD variant comes with two 3.5-kW rear hub motors, each delivering a powerful 190 Nm (140 lb-ft) of torque. For those seeking even more capability, the 4WD version adds 600W hub motors (60 Nm/44 lb-ft) to both front wheels. This arrangement provides exceptional power and control, enabling users to tackle steep inclines and challenging terrains with ease.
All motors are powered by a removable 48V/2.1-kWh lithium battery, providing the juice needed for extended outdoor explorations. Thanks to this battery, riders of the 4WD model can switch to 2WD mode on flat terrain to save power, a thoughtful feature that maximizes the vehicle’s efficiency. The top speed reaches 6 km/h (4 mph) in 4WD and 15 km/h (9 mph) in 2WD, offering a balance between safety and thrill. With one 7-hour charge, the battery can last for four to six hours of mixed-mode riding, ensuring that adventures don’t come to an abrupt end due to power issues.
For those who prefer the raw thrill of gravity-assisted rides, the Exogravity version of the Exoquad steals the spotlight.
It shares similar specs but lacks a motor or battery, relying instead on downhill momentum for movement. This variant is ideal for adrenaline junkies looking for no-holds-barred downhill descents, and with its lighter weight of 49 kg, it’s even suggested for activities like dogsledding.
Pricing for these innovative vehicles starts at €15,999 (about US$17,365) for the 4WD Exoquad, €12,999 ($14,109) for the 2WD Exoquad, and €7,199 ($7,814) for the Exogravity. Although the investment may seem significant, it’s a small price to pay for the freedom, adventure, and inclusivity these vehicles offer.
The Exoquad, through its detailed and thoughtful design, opens up a world of outdoor exploration that was previously inaccessible to many. Its combination of power, safety, and adaptability makes it more than just a vehicle; it’s a portal to adventure, a key to unlocking the great outdoors for wheelchair users. Whether it’s conquering rugged terrains or simply enjoying the beauty of nature, the Exoquad stands as a symbol of technological progress and inclusivity. Its existence not only challenges the limitations faced by wheelchair users but also redefines the possibilities of adventure, proving that the spirit of exploration knows no bounds.
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Exoquad four-wheeler brings off-road adventure to wheelchair users (startupselfie.net)
