Over the course of several years, I thought I’d witnessed almost every type of electric scooter available in the micromobility industry. As that elusive electric snow scooter finally landed on my desk, its arrival served as a poignant reminder of just how far-reaching innovative technology can be.
This innovative Finnish e-scooter appears to break new ground in terms of design and features, unlike any model currently available on the market.
The scooter’s inventor, Pasi Kauppinen, notes that its name originates from traditional Finnish cross-country skis used for navigating snowy terrain. The lycra-covered lyre fell out of favour as a standard means of transportation many years ago; nonetheless, its distinctive picket design inspired the development of the e-lyre, which leverages the same durable materials in its core, stem, and entrance ski.
Unlike traditional skiing equipment that necessitates an additional, shorter ski for use on the opposite foot for kicking, the eLyly system streamlines all propulsion into a single, unified unit. With its steerable entrance ski, the device features a reliable and efficient tracked drivetrain propelled by a powerful 1,000W electric motor. The elastomer-coated monitor, analogous to a miniature snowmobile transmission, enables the eLyly to achieve a top speed of 25 km/h (15.5 mph).
The lithium-ion battery is said to provide a range of approximately 20-30 kilometers, or 12.4-18.6 miles, before needing recharging. Replenishing the power takes around two and a half hours, sufficient time to prepare for another journey.
While the complete scooter tips the scales at 55 kg (121 lb.), its weight is significantly lighter than that of a snowmobile, though slightly heavier than many electric scooters on the market. Although it may not be as swift or efficient as a snowmobile, this device still has its advantages, particularly when stowed in a car trunk with its collapsible handlebars.
The corporation has yet to initiate marketing efforts for the eLyly, nor have they provided any hints about expected pricing. One can only speculate that it won’t be affordable, given its nature.
For those keen on winter micromobility adventures despite lingering snow, alternative options warrant consideration. Moonbike, an innovative company we’ve covered before, has developed two intriguing electric snowmobile-style vehicles in compact formats.
The French company’s innovative creation combines the essence of a seated scooter with that of a snowmobile, offering a unique and thrilling means to navigate snowy terrain in a fun and portable way.
Equipped with a potent 3 kW electrical motor, the Moonbike accelerates to a remarkable top speed of 42 km/h (26 mph).
Although this electric vehicle won’t compete directly with a traditional snowmobile, its design shares similarities with the eLynx. Weighing in at 82 kg (182 lb), it’s much easier to tow behind a truck or SUV. With its design tailored for natively snowy terrain, the Moonbike seems better suited for casual winter frolicking than rigorous snowmobiling pursuits.
Taiga, a pioneering Canadian company, is revolutionizing the world of electric snowmobiling with their cutting-edge, full-scale models ideal for thrill-seeking winter enthusiasts.
While corporations manufacture electric snowmobiles and jet skis, enthusiasts in the Northern Hemisphere are currently more likely to engage with the former during this time of year. Significantly, energy outputs ranging from 120 to 180 horsepower, or 90 to 134 kilowatts, catapult these electric snowmobiles into an entirely distinct category compared to their smaller counterparts – the snow scooters and snow bikes previously mentioned.
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