The Mountains Meet the Streets: Skwheel's Electric Ski Revolution at CES 2026
2 day ago / Read about 13 minute
Source:TechTimes

Skwheel

LAS VEGAS — For those who have ever wished the winter ski season could last all year, the halls of CES 2026 offered a glimpse into a future without off-seasons. Skwheel, the pioneer of the "electric ski," has arrived at this year's convention with two new models that promise to bring the adrenaline-fueled "carving sensation" of the slopes to every conceivable terrain.

By combining high-speed electric motors with a proprietary pivot system, Skwheel is creating a new category of "all-terrain" personal mobility that feels less like commuting and more like an Olympic slalom run.

The 2026 Lineup: "The Big" and "The Biggest"

Building on the success of their initial debut, Skwheel is introducing two distinct models this year, designed to cater to both urban commuters and hardcore off-road enthusiasts.

  • "The Big" Model: This version is built for agility and speed in everyday environments. It is capable of reaching speeds up to 20 miles per hour, making it a viable—and far more exciting—alternative to electric scooters for city travel.
  • "The Biggest" (All-Terrain) Model: This flagship model is where Skwheel truly pushes the boundaries of engineering. Designed to be "all-terrain," it is capable of reaching a blistering 40 miles per hour.
  • Terrain Versatility: The core appeal of these electric skis is their ability to function "everywhere." At the Skwheel booth, representatives highlighted that the skis can be used in the city, through forest trails, on mountains, and even on the beach, where the sand provides a "just amazing sensation."

Skwheel

The Core Technology: The E1 Pivot System

The secret to Skwheel's unique ride lies in its E1 technology, a specialized front-wheel pivot system that distinguishes it from traditional inline skates or skateboards.

Traditional wheels are fixed, but the E1 system allows for a fluid, pivoting motion that replicates the carving sensation of a ski edge digging into the snow. This mechanical innovation allows the rider to steer by leaning and shifting their weight, providing a level of intuitive control that feels natural to anyone who has spent time on the mountains.

Safety at 40 MPH: A Dual Approach

With speeds reaching 40 miles per hour, safety is a primary concern for the Skwheel engineering team. To address this, they have integrated a multi-layered safety strategy:

  • Dual Braking System: Every Skwheel unit features two independent ways to stop. Riders have access to an electronic brake controlled via a handheld remote, as well as a traditional mechanical brake located at the back of the product.
  • Stability by Design: The products feature a lower center of gravity than traditional skates. When the skis are attached to the feet, they feel like "just big shoes," providing a stable platform that helps the rider stay upright even at high speeds.
  • Dynamic Pivot Control: Interestingly, the E1 pivot technology also doubles as a safety feature. Because of the front-wheel pivot system, riders have enough flexibility and control to "cross the leg," allowing for more complex maneuvers to avoid obstacles that would be impossible on more rigid platforms.

A Community-Driven Evolution

Skwheel's journey has been one of rapid, feedback-oriented growth. Since their appearance at CES 2024, where they introduced their first prototype, the company has "built it, shipped it, and sold it."

The 2026 models are a direct result of the "community of writers" (riders) that has formed around the brand over the last two years. By taking real-world feedback from their initial users and testing the products in "reboot conditions," Skwheel was able to refine the motor power, battery life, and durability for this latest generation.

Launch Details and the Road to 2027

Skwheel is preparing for a major global push throughout the coming year.

  • April Launch: The company has confirmed that two new models will officially launch in April, accompanied by a special discount for early adopters who visit skwheel.com.
  • Global Expansion: A major goal for the 2026 show is finding international partners to help distribute the "Skwheel universe" worldwide. The company is seeking partners who can support both the technical development and the building of a "strong global skill community."
  • The Vision for 2027: As the brand looks toward CES 2027, the focus is on ubiquity. By next year, Skwheel hopes to have established a presence in major markets across the globe, turning the electric ski from a niche novelty into a recognized form of performance transportation.

Skwheel is more than just a new way to get from point A to point B; it is an attempt to capture the freedom of the slopes and make it a part of daily life. With the launch of "The Big" and "The Biggest" models this April, the company is proving that with the right pivot technology and a bit of electric power, the world is your mountain.