The snow industry is currently undergoing an unprecedented transformation. As ski resorts evolve into 365-day mountain destination management models, the search for alternatives that keep the winter adrenaline alive during the summer has become a priority. In this context of diversification, where we have already analysed how climate change is redefining mountain activities, projects are emerging that promise to break the barrier of seasonality through technical innovation.
SKWHEEL is not merely a new electric mobility device; it is a bold attempt to faithfully replicate the biomechanics of alpine skiing on solid surfaces. Unlike previous historical attempts at “roller skiing”, its approach focuses on edge technology and high-speed stability, seeking to bridge the sensory gap between snow and dry land. This proposal arrives at a pivotal moment when the digitalisation and modernisation of resorts demand solutions that are not only enjoyable but also environmentally respectful and commercially viable for active tourism.
In this exclusive interview for IloveSki, we speak with Joseph Dahirel, the head of SKWHEEL, to delve into the inner workings of their patented Carve-E1 technology. From the financing process in such a competitive sector to the real-world feedback from ski champions who are already using these devices for off-season training, Dahirel reveals whether we are witnessing a simple evolution of skating or the birth of a new gliding discipline that could reshape the future of mountain holidays.
SKWHEEL is a technically ambitious project that has required several years of development. Could you tell us about the origin of the idea, your background as founders, and how you managed to finance and sustain such a long R&D phase?
The project was born from our desire to create a new sporting activity, especially for mid- and low-altitude ski resorts that are facing reduced snowfall and are looking to develop year-round activities.
The company was financed through several sources, including bank loans, support from Bpifrance, and Business Angels.
SKWHEEL is based on two independent motorized units, aiming to reproduce skiing dynamics. How do you define it today: a new discipline or an evolution of skating? Could you explain how your patented E-1 Carve Technology generates edge-like sensations and which specific skiing principles-like weight transfer or angulation-influenced the design?
SKWHEEL is a new gliding discipline, inspired as closely as possible by skiing. To achieve this level of sensation, we worked closely with freeride and alpine ski champions, asking them to test the product many times. Their feedback helped us improve our technologies and get as close as possible to the sensations of alpine skiing.
Our patented Carve-E1 technology was developed after numerous test sessions with these athletes. It is based in particular on steering dampers using specific oil viscosities, which help reproduce weight transfer and turn initiation, two key principles of skiing.
We also developed another patented system called calf locking, which allows the rider, once strapped in, to feel close to the sensation of wearing a ski boot. This helps reproduce the angulation, posture and body engagement of a skier.
Recreating skiing sensations is a very strong claim. What kind of feedback have you received from experienced skiers who have tested SKWHEEL? Do they recognize familiar sensations, or is the experience still fundamentally different?
Today, several well-known ski clubs in France use SKWHEEL as part of their athletes’ training. We also work with ski instructors, who confirm that the sensations are very close to carving.
The main difference compared to skiing is braking. We chose to prioritize safety: unlike skiing, SKWHEEL does not rely on skidding to slow down. The product includes a dual braking system, both electronic and mechanical, allowing for safe, powerful and progressive braking. This is combined with a low center of gravity, which provides optimal stability.
For skiers, carving is about pressure management, edge engagement and flow. To what extent can SKWHEEL reproduce this type of sensation, and where do you see the main differences compared to carving on snow?
Our Carve-E1 system is at the heart of the way SKWHEEL turns. To initiate a turn, the rider simply needs to lean onto the edges: the system naturally activates and supports the turn.
At low speed, this makes the product very maneuverable. Above around 15 km/h, the rider really starts to feel carving and short-turn sensations, with a smooth and dynamic riding experience.
Unlike skiing, SKWHEEL operates on hard surfaces where there is no natural absorption. What are the current technical limitations in replicating ski-like behaviour, and how do you address stability and safety at higher speeds?
SKWHEEL was designed for off-road use. It can be used on alpine ski slopes in summer, especially on grass – ideally when the grass is cut – as well as on cross-country ski trails, hiking paths, forest tracks, beaches near the water, and urban environments.
The product is also fully approved for road use, which makes it suitable for sports, leisure and mobility purposes.
As mountain destinations increasingly look for year-round activities, do you see potential integration within ski resorts, and how do you envision your role within the broader ski industry?
In France, we are already working with several ski resorts that see SKWHEEL as a new gliding activity to offer their customers. The product can be used on cross-country ski trails, greenways, and alpine ski slopes during the summer season.
Our ambition is to support resorts in their transition toward year-round activities by offering an innovative, accessible gliding experience directly inspired by skiing.
We wish the SKWHEEL team every success with this ambitious venture, which promises to bridge the gap between the seasons for skiing enthusiasts.
At IloveSki, we are eager to see how this project evolves and hope to put it to the test ourselves in the French Pyrenees before the winter season begins.
