News

WHILL Launches New Model Ci at CES 2018–Wows Media and Attendees

untitled-001

San Carlos, CA – January 29, 2018 – On January 9th at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, WHILL, Inc. launched its new Model Ci, an intelligent, personal electric vehicle (PEV) that has the power to eliminate the feeling of self-consciousness reflected in antiquated scooters and wheelchairs. CES attendees and media from around the world flocked to WHILL’s booth to view and test drive the Model Ci, a CES 2018 “Best of Innovation” Awards winner and Engadget Best of CES 2018 Finalist.

 

blank

 

The Model Ci is a category-defining product, one that uniquely combines a sleek, fashionable design with advanced driving features such as a joystick for precise maneuverability inside and patented front omni-wheels with two powerful motors to glide through rough undulating city streets as well as off-road terrain without hesitation. Model Ci also disassembles into three components so that it can be transported easily. WHILL built the Model Ci Personal EV for those who are active, social and crave adventure. It is available in multiple colors and seat widths with an MSRP of $3,999.00.

 

CNET’s Megan Wollerton drives Model Ci through WHILL’s obstacle course at CES 2018

 

Read what the biggest tech reporters at CES had to say about Model Ci:

 

CNET

Gizmodo

Wired

Medgadget

 

Stocked with the latest wireless technologies, the Model Ci incorporates app-enabled driving for greater independence, multiple driving modes to match a driver’s riding style and comfort zone, and a digital battery charge indictor to stem range anxiety, all enabled via Bluetooth. Leveraging mobile broadband and GPS, the Model Ci provides predictive product maintenance information as well as remote customer support.

 

 

“With its modern design, the Model Ci challenges today’s conventions with a product that, due to its futuristic appeal, eliminates the stigma and adverse psychological impact that affects people who use mobility devices,” says Satoshi Sugie, CEO of WHILL and former Nissan designer. “The result is not just freedom of mobility, but freedom from the self-consciousness often associated with a wheelchair or scooter.”

 

Model Ci boasts a 10 mile range from its lithium-ion battery and has a top speed of 5mph. The Model Ci is highly versatile with power to climb hills and conquer rugged terrains yet extremely agile indoors to maneuver through tight doorways and confined areas. Consumers no longer need two devices, one for indoors and another one for outdoors; the Model Ci masters all environments beautifully.

 

WHILL’s design and engineering team includes automotive, electronics and mobility engineers who are focused on redefining the concept of personal mobility for those who have difficulty walking.

 

All WHILL products are available for test drives and purchase through its extensive distribution network, including CRT industry leader National Seating and Mobility, Scootaround, and many other Durable Medical Equipment providers around the U.S. as well as online through Spinlife.com, 1800wheelchair.com, and Scootaroundsales.com.

 

About WHILL

Since its founding in 2013, WHILL’s mission is to transform today’s antiquated power wheelchair and scooter experiences into a new kind of empowering device, an intelligent personal electric vehicle (EV). WHILL is reinventing the personal mobility industry with an Intelligent Personal EV that focuses on an approachable and aesthetically pleasing powered vehicle that boosts confidence and pushes the boundaries of personal transportation. Headquartered in the Bay Area with offices in Tokyo and Taiwan, WHILL is focused on enabling everyone to explore the world in comfort and style.

 

WHILL Model Ci is not to be considered a medical device and has not been submitted to the Food and Drug Administration for review or clearance.

 

02/18 740-01454-MKT-18