Superpedestrian aims to deploy new e-scooters featuring its AI-based safety system, Pedestrian Defense, this year following its largest-ever funding round in which it secured US$125m (£92m) in debt and equity capital.
The micromobility firm looks to introduce the new safety system in the first 25 cities across the US and Europe during 2022. The AI-based software combines data from multiple vehicle sensors and integrates them with the scooter’s on-board vehicle intelligence to take real-time action.
Pedestrian Defense is designed to precisely detect vehicle position, even in urban canyons where GPS has high inaccuracy. It can detect a wide array of unsafe riding behaviour, including sidewalk riding, stunt riding, aggressive swerving and “salmoning” against traffic.
Additionally, the e-scooters will automatically slow or stop in real time when unsafe behavior like riding on a sidewalk is detected.
Following successful field tests of Pedestrian Defense in recent months, the system will now be integrated into Superpedestrian’s technologically advanced LINK e-scooter fleet, which has launched in 57 cities.
“Over the past nine years, we have developed a unique software platform that addresses the core challenges of electric vehicle fleets,” said Assaf Biderman, founder and CEO of Superpedestrian.
“From predictive-maintenance and repair automation, to fine-grain locationing and curb management, our platform is rich with advanced capabilities that enable safer and more reliable transportation solutions.”
“With this latest funding round, we are boosting our investment in R&D and scaling up our deployments in micromobility and beyond.”
The investment comes from Jefferies, Antara Capital, the Sony Innovation Fund by IGV and FM Capital, alongside existing backers Spark Capital, General Catalyst and Citi via the Citi Impact Fund.
Gen Tsuchikawa, chief investment manager for Sony Innovation Fund, added: “Superpedestrian brings together best-in class vehicles, an advanced software platform, and efficient fleet operations, enabling them to safely integrate small electric vehicles into crowded city streets.
“With an experienced executive team and strong operations in a variety of markets and geographies around the world, we are pleased to welcome Superpedestrian to IGV’s growing portfolio of promising mobility-focused start-ups.”
