I am applying for a grant to further develop the Detachable Motor System (DMS) for Skateboards—a project that began as my senior design at NYU Tandon School of Engineering. My team has agreed I may continue this work, recognizing its strong potential for urban mobility and green energy advancement.

Project Description and Importance

The DMS is a pioneering, tool-free electric motor kit that instantly transforms any standard skateboard into a powered vehicle, then reverts it back to manual use just as easily. Unlike existing electric skateboards or permanent motor kits, the DMS is designed for easy, non-destructive installation and removal, using latches and elastic materials. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of skateboard shapes and sizes and preserves the board’s original integrity.

The DMS addresses a critical gap in urban transportation: the need for affordable, flexible, and sustainable micro-mobility. Traditional skateboards are lightweight and portable, but impractical for long commutes. Electric skateboards offer convenience but are costly, heavy, and lack versatility. The DMS bridges these worlds, providing the freedom of traditional skateboarding with the option for electric propulsion, ideal for city dwellers who need adaptable solutions.

Prototype Results and Relevance

Our prototype demonstrated the DMS can be installed in under a minute after initial setup and removed just as quickly. It successfully propelled a 75kg (165 lb.) rider at substantial speeds and met the minimum range requirement for a typical city commute (over 3 miles per charge). The system uses a 44.4V, 8.4Ah lithium-ion battery and a dual-motor belt drive, controlled wirelessly. While the prototype exceeded the target weight (11.7 lbs. vs. 5 lbs.), this was due to prioritizing durability and compatibility in the initial design. The next phase will focus on weight reduction and further integration of electronics for reliability and safety.

Innovation and Urban Impact

No current product offers the DMS’s unique combination of tool-free, reversible installation, broad compatibility, and affordability. Competing solutions require permanent modifications or are limited to specific board types, restricting user choice and increasing electronic waste. The DMS’s modular design encourages repair, upgrade, and reuse, aligning with circular economy and green energy principles. Its portability and ease of use make it highly pertinent for dense urban environments like New York City, where commuters need flexible, sustainable, and space saving transportation options.

Next Steps and Grant Justification

With this grant, I will:

• Redesign and optimize the DMS for lighter weight and improved manufacturability.
• Integrate the battery and electronics for enhanced reliability and user safety.
• Conduct further urban testing for range, durability, and user experience.
• Develop an investor-ready prototype for commercialization and pilot programs in major cities.

The DMS stands to make a significant impact on sustainable urban transportation, offering a practical, green alternative for city commuters. Grant support will be instrumental in perfecting this technology and bringing it to market.