Urban transportation is set for a change with the introduction of the Owlet One, a pedal-less ebike/scooter hybrid. Developed by the Los Angeles-based startup Owlet, the One is designed to cater to ebike riders who prefer the convenience of throttling through their commutes and urban adventures. This high-torque, angular machine promises to stand out in the crowded market of electric two-wheelers.
Owlet has taken a bold step by completely eliminating pedals from the One, a decision driven by their observation that high-power ebike riders rarely use them. As a result, the One functions more like a sit-down electric scooter, similar in concept to the JackRabbit micro-bike. The company describes it as a “new class of urban transportation” that is lightweight, mobile, compact, and immensely powerful.
The design team at Owlet has drawn inspiration from various industries, including aerospace, UAV technology, fashion, jewelry, and energy, to create a vehicle that is not only functional but also a piece of art. The One’s distinctive look features angular panels on the front and back, contributing to its unique aesthetic.
At the heart of the Owlet One is a robust aluminum top tube housing a 1,500-Wh removable battery made with LG cells. This battery powers the vehicle and supports an integrated double “Angel Eyes” headlight and a circular tail-light with signaling capabilities. The battery can be fully charged in 3.5 hours using the included charger, providing a per-charge range of 40 to 60 miles (up to 96.5 km).
Riders operate the One by placing their feet on flip-up pegs and gripping the flatbar handlebars. A thumb throttle engages a 750-W rear-hub motor, which can peak at an impressive 3,000 watts. This motor delivers up to 180 Nm (142 lb.ft) of torque, enabling the One to reach a top speed of 30 mph (48 km/h). For those concerned about regulatory compliance, the speed can be set to 20 mph for Class 2 compatibility.
The frame of the Owlet One is designed with versatility in mind. It measures between 58 and 63 inches (147 – 160 cm) in length, depending on the wheelbase setting. When not in use, the frame can be compacted to 44 x 37 x 21 inches (111 x 94 x 53 cm), making it easy to transport in a car trunk or store indoors.
To ensure a smooth ride over urban terrain, the One is equipped with an air-dampened suspension fork and a spring-cushioned bobber-style saddle. The 20-inch fatbike wheels, fitted with grippy CST road tires, further enhance stability and control. Stopping power is provided by reliable Shimano hydraulic disc brakes, and GPS tracking is included for added security.
The development of the Owlet One has been a meticulous process, with the team spending over a year on the project, starting with CAD models and progressing to prototyping. The vehicle made its debut at CES in January, and since then, influencers and potential customers have had the opportunity to test ride early builds. The company is now preparing for a limited production run of 100 units.
While pricing and availability details are yet to be announced, Owlet is inviting interested individuals to join a waitlist to stay updated on the latest developments. The One promises to be a significant addition to the urban transportation landscape, offering a blend of power, convenience, and style for modern commuters.
Product page: Owlet One
