Electric scooters have gained popularity in recent years as a mode of urban mobility, offering a convenient and eco-friendly alternative for short-distance travel. The future of electric scooters and their impact on urban mobility is expected to continue. And so has the British tech company Hilo co-founded by EV leader Dr. Andy Palmer recognised. Only recently the brand has launched its first product, the Hilo One electric scooter.

The Hilo One is a state-of-the-art e-scooter with intriguing features like the Halo illumination system which uses AI to tell pedestrians and other vehicles when it's nearby for increased safety. Additionally, the 12.5” front wheel offers extra stability while controlling and riding the scooter. The Hilo One comes in a futuristic, clean and foldable design, but more in detail below.

“E-scooters have faced challenges with safety and public perception. The Hilo One is an e-scooter that addresses these concerns head-on. I believe in the potential of e-scooters to revolutionise urban transportation. I also understand the importance of safety, comfort, and rider experience.” – Dr. Andy Palmer, co-founder of Hilo

Safety as a priority

The Hilo One was created to tackle the safety concerns and poor reputation associated with electric scooters. And so has the Halo illumination system been designed to address these safety issues in micromobility with the use of computer vision AI. This technology gives riders real-time feedback through visuals, sounds, and vibrations in the handlebars to keep them aware as they ride. Illumination extends around the entire scooter, making it look larger on dark roads. It also allows drivers to convey their intent on the road such as braking, turning, and charging or diagnostics statuses.

The Hilo One has a unique integrated control unit, creating a connection between the e-scooter and an electric car. The two can share data such as charging points and navigation information, making it especially helpful for drivers who want a solution to their final travel route.

The company Hilo plans to make this system available to other small transportation companies.

Functional and rider-focused design

The Hilo One has a design that takes care of problems other electric scooters have. Its 12.5” front wheel helps it avoid bumps and makes it more stable than other models on the market. The handy folding system, made in partnership with Lotus Engineering, can tuck the wheels into the body of the scooter for easy carrying with its special telescopic handle.

The Hilo One has been designed to only display the essential information necessary for the rider, such as range and navigation, enabling them to focus on staying safe while they ride. Its onboard computer connects with compatible Unit 1 helmets and is able to detect whether or not the helmet is being used. Furthermore, the Hilo companion app provides diagnostic data in addition to displaying individual user profiles.

Performance and charging

For the battery, Hilo is partnering with InoBat, the world's premier battery technology company. This provides the Hilo One with incomparable power and weight efficiency. It can reach a top speed of about 25 km/h (the maximum speed limit) and offers 40 km per charge. Fitted out with dual 350w electric motors, it offers powerful acceleration and braking capability, perfect for navigating city traffic without needing frequent maintenance.

The Dock – Hilo's scooter charger – is designed for simple charging at home. It's versatile, as it can be wall-mounted or kept under a desk to save floor space. Hilo One connects seamlessly to the Dock without cables, working either vertically or horizontally.

Prices for the Hilo One are set from 1,750 GBP.
Customers can now reserve their own Founders Edition arriving in 2024.

Pictures: Hilo