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‘Game changer’ self-adjusting mobility scooter marks milestone
Since the first prototype in 2018, designed to create the “ultimate mobility scooter,” Supersmith has reached a significant milestone: securing its first paid client.
For Tom Morgan, co-founder of Supersmith, the venture was more than just a business endeavour, it was something deeply personal, stemming from a desire to design the “most user-friendly” mobility scooter.
Tom’s sister, Morwenna Davenport, was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis about 25 years ago and has used a variety of mobility scooters. However, she found them to be bulky, cumbersome, and prone to accidents.
Tom, an engineer by profession, was inspired to focus his efforts on design after Morwenna had a terrifying experience falling off her scooter and into the road, an incident that deeply affected the whole family.
Joining him in the venture were his wife, Emily, and her cousin, Fred Russell-Pavier, which led to the creation of Supersmith.
With support from UWE Bristol’s Bristol Robotics Lab and the regional tech incubator SETsquared, Supersmith completed its prototype in the summer of 2024 and recently unveiled the design to the press.
When Bristol24/7 caught up with the co-founders at their adopted home at the Robotics Lab, the mood was upbeat, as they had just received their first client, who placed a deposit for a scooter during the first round of pre-orders.
When asked to sum up the scooter, Fred, the firm’s chief technology officer, said: “It’s a blend of the practicality of a mobility scooter and the stylishness of an e-scooter, striking a balance that makes people feel good.”
Tom Morgan’s sister Morwenna was the inspiration behind the Supersmith’s mobility scooter
The 3Scooter features a self-adjusting system designed to handle uneven terrain, such as curbs, tree trunks, and bumps. Its height-adjustable, foldable design allows it to be easily stored in the boot of a car and assembled without hassle.
Tom explained: “I managed to take some time off work to brainstorm concepts we’re still developing. During that process, I realised I had hit a limit in my understanding of the electronics and stabilisation technology essential to what we do.
“So, I called Fred, with whom I’d been discussing this issue for about five years. At that point, Fred was still at school, sharing a keen interest in electric vehicles and making things.
“It was the perfect time to tap into Fred’s expertise and creativity in electronics, software, and innovation. Initially, it was about merging ideas to make the concept work, and since then, it’s grown, with all of us learning a lot and building a community of experts in every aspect of what we do.”
Fred Russell-Pavier explaining the mechanics behind 3Scooter at Bristol Robotics Lab
But has it earned the seal of approval from Tom’s sister, who was the inspiration behind the project? Morwenna, who was present at the unveiling, has tried the finished product several times. And it is safe to say that her verdict is a resounding yes.
Speaking to Bristol24/7, Morwenna said: “I always remember when I fell off the scooter. Tom must have gone home, or we told him about it, and he drew something on a piece of paper. It was a very basic sketch of a three-wheeled scooter, with what seemed like some self-balancing feature. And that’s how it all started.”
Co-founders of Supersmith (from left to right) Tom Morgan, Fred Russell-Pavier and Emily Morgan
She continued: “It actually made me cry. I’m very emotional because what he’s achieved is unbelievable. It’s not just the self-leveling feature—while any scooter or wheelchair can tip when one wheel comes off the ground.
“Tom has created something incredible that stays level when coming off a curb. But it’s more than that. It also allows the user to raise the seat, which is a huge achievement.
“When you’re in a wheelchair or mobility scooter, you’re always looking up at people, and sometimes conversations happen above your head. Being able to raise yourself up is a game-changer. Plus, it’s lightweight, foldable, and can fit in a car boot.”
One of the key features of 3Scooter is the ability to self-adjust to uneven terrain
The product is nearing commercial release, with the first 25 units available for pre-order through a Founders Club.
The team behind the 3Scooter will be coming to Cabot Circus on March 22 and 23. The special event invites visitors to witness the 3Scooter in action for the very first time. The attendees will also have the opportunity to meet the co-founders, Tom, Emily and Fred, to learn about their extraordinary journey to create a safer, more inclusive mobility scooter. The pop-up demonstration will run on both days from 10am to 4pm.
For more information, visit www.supersmith.co
All photos: Milan Perera
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