In 2015, French aeronautical engineer Nicolas Muron witnessed the disruption caused by noisy and polluting snowmobiles in the French Alps. Inspired to find a better solution, Muron developed the MoonBike, a lightweight, eco-friendly e-bike for the snow. Weighing only 163 lbs, the MoonBike is significantly lighter than traditional snowmobiles and features a 3 kW electric motor that provides ample power for climbing steep slopes. With a 3 kWh battery, the MoonBike offers up to 90 minutes of riding time, extendable with an optional second battery. Riders have praised the MoonBike for its quietness and impressive battery performance.
The MoonBike is not designed to replace traditional snowmobiles used for transporting passengers and cargo. Instead, it offers a unique and sustainable way to explore winter environments. The Next Web describes it as a cleaner, quieter, and more maneuverable alternative to a snowmobile, appealing to a broader demographic. MoonBike buyers tend to be avid skiers and electric car owners. Ski areas have embraced the MoonBike as a means to reduce their carbon footprint, offering guided MoonBike trips to visitors. Despite facing backlash from some petrol enthusiasts, MoonBike continues to gather interest and gain permits to operate in various regions worldwide.
While the MoonBike and other electric snowmobiles, such as Taiga Motors and Vidde, don’t replace traditional snowmobiles entirely, they contribute to a shift towards greener and quieter winter travel. These electric alternatives are becoming increasingly popular, attracting customers who value sustainability and a unique snow experience. A greener, quieter world awaits as winter travel continues to evolve.
