Looking to disrupt the all-terrain vehicles market with 18Wheels (from Finland)
In a world increasingly drawn to electric mobility, a Finnish startup is aiming to become a new contender. They believe they can thrive with a groundbreaking invention poised to disrupt the all-terrain vehicle (ATV) market.
Their name is 18Wheels, and as the name suggests, they have developed an electric quad bike with 18 wheels.
"We wanted to create something that doesn’t harm the environment and, at the same time, allows you to go where no one has gone before".
Elena Melnikova, chief business development manager at 18Wheels.
Reinventing the quad bike
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In an interview inside Slush 2024, Melnikova told Entreprenerd Media that the 18-wheel ATV combines cutting-edge engineering and innovative suspension technology to address limitations that have plagued traditional quad bikes. Each wheel is equipped with its own electric motor, granting the vehicle unparalleled agility and power.
The patented design allows it to overcome obstacles up to 30 centimeters tall—logs, rocks, and rugged terrain are no longer a challenge, at speeds of 20 to 30 km/h, something very important in rescue situations.
The vehicle runs for four hours on a single charge and features swappable batteries, extending its runtime to eight hours. "It’s not just a recreational vehicle; it’s a tool for industries like agriculture, rescue services, and outdoor tourism," Melnikova explains.
Also the vehicle have adjustable pneumatic suspension enhances stability and safety, adapting to the rider’s weight, speed, and road surface quality. Aditionally, due to low ground pressure it does not cause physical damage to the soil.
A vehicle for multiple industries
18Wheels is not just about adventurous off-roading; it’s a multipurpose solution tailored to diverse markets:
- Recreational Adventures: Outdoor enthusiasts can explore uncharted territories without causing environmental harm.
- Agriculture: The vehicle’s low ground pressure makes it ideal for delicate operations, such as spraying crops or navigating vineyards, without compacting the soil.
- Rescue Services: Its ability to traverse challenging landscapes ensures swift and safe access to remote areas during emergencies.
Unlike traditional quad bikes, which weigh around 500 kilograms and can be dangerous in the event of a rollover, the 18Wheels ATV weighs less than 200 kilograms, prioritizing user safety.
A modular suspension system
What truly sets 18Wheels apart is its suspension system, a versatile invention that can be scaled for different applications.
"It’s like Lego—you can build it very fast," says Melnikova from the Slush Meeting spaces. "From robots to trucks, the system can be adapted to suit various industries. We’re negotiating with a Greek company to create agricultural vehicles based on this suspension. The potential applications are limitless."
Market fit and future goals
With a price tag of $25,000 (excluding shipping), the 18Wheels prototype has already garnered interest from several industries. Letters of Intent (LOIs) have been signed with rental services in Cyprus and Greece, as well as a major dealership in Latin America, starting in Chile.
The company is also raising funds to scale manufacturing and invest in marketing. "We want the world to know this vehicle exists. It’s unique, and we believe it can redefine the electric vehicle market," says Melnikova.
In five years, 18Wheels envisions itself as a leader in electric vehicles and suspension technology, driving innovation and disrupting the automotive industry.
A brand-new off-road experience
What makes 18Wheels truly revolutionary is its environmental impact—or lack thereof. The vehicle doesn’t leave deep tracks or harm natural landscapes, making it a sustainable alternative in a world seeking greener transportation solutions.
"Conventional quad bikes can destroy the environment, but our ATV doesn’t leave a trace,"
says Melnikova, chief business development manager at 18Wheels.
By simplifying maintenance and assembly, the startup also addresses pain points for dealerships and rental services. Its semi-knockdown design ensures easy repairs and part replacements, making it an attractive option for businesses.
