Thalwil, Switzerland and Tokyo, Japan – June 27, 2017 – WHILL KK., a Japanese company specialized in innovative products for the mobility industry, has launched a new revolutionary wheelchair for personal mobility featuring cloud connectivity based on a 3G cellular module from u‑blox (SIX: UBXN), a global leader in wireless and positioning modules and chips.
The next-generation WHILL Model C embodies the next generation of power wheelchairs for enhanced mobility. It is a personal electric vehicle that combines a sleek design with the latest innovative functionalities, enabling users to live an active lifestyle. Sturdy and compact with two powerful electric motors and patented front Omni‑wheels, it maneuvers equally well indoors and outdoors.
The u‑blox 3G cellular module embedded in WHILL Model C features worldwide UMTS/HSPA and GPRS/EDGE coverage with a small footprint also enabling easy and cost‑effective bolting-on of a u‑blox GNSS receiver such as the MAX‑7C.
“WHILL believes in providing “Fun and Smart Transportation for Everybody”, and develops personal mobility devices that excel in design, comfort, safety and the latest technologies. u‑blox’s state‑of‑the‑art, but also affordable, cellular technologies were just what we needed,” says Nishiki Hinohara, Electrical Engineer at WHILL KK.
“We are very proud of being featured in the WHILL Model C wheelchair. The collaboration with WHILL KK. should help us strengthen our position in the Japanese market as a key player for healthcare applications where numerous complementary technologies are necessary,” explains Tesshu Naka, Country Manager of u‑blox Japan.
As WHILL KK is looking into autonomous driving for people with disabilities, u‑blox plans to contribute with wireless positioning and connectivity technology
More information on the WHILL Model C can be found here (in Japanese).
About u‑blox
Swiss u‑blox (SIX:UBXN) is a global leader in wireless and positioning modules and chips for the automotive, industrial and consumer markets. u‑blox solutions enable people, vehicles and machines to locate their exact position and communicate wirelessly over cellular and short range networks. With a broad portfolio of chips, modules and software solutions, u‑blox is uniquely positioned to empower OEMs to develop innovative solutions for the Internet of Things, quickly and cost-effectively. With headquarters in Thalwil, Switzerland, u-blox is globally present with offices in Europe, Asia, and the USA.
(www.u-blox.com)
Find us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter @ublox and YouTube
u-blox contact:
Tesshu Naka, Country Manager, u‑blox Japan
Phone: +81 03 5775 3850
E-mail: tesshu.naka@u-blox.com
About WHILL KK.
Since its founding in 2012, WHILL’s mission is to transform today’s antiquated power wheelchair and scooter experiences into a new kind of empowering device, an Intelligent personal mobility. WHILL is reinventing the personal mobility industry with an Intelligent Personal EV that focuses on an approachable and aesthetically pleasing powered vehicle that boosts confidence and pushes the boundaries of personal transportation. Headquartered in the San Francisco Bay Area with offices in Tokyo and Taiwan, WHILL is focused on enabling everyone to explore the world in comfort and style.
(www.whill.us)
WHILL KK. contact:
WHILL K.K. PR
Office JP: +81-(0)45-633-1471
E-mail: info@whill.jp