"Creating a new Experience With Never-Imagined Ride Forms" - DRYFT1's CEO, Ralph Zipper

The Dryft Board introduces an entirely new e-vehicle category called the 'Hybrid Board Cross' (HBX). It blends the best characteristics of a BMX, skateboard, and e-bike.

The company behind it is DRYFT1, a California-based startup that's been around since 2022. 

"Dryft Board is enabling us to unite the e-micromobility and action sports worlds for a new era of movement and adventure," Ralph Zipper, DRYFT1's CEO, tells Auto Futures.

DRYFT1's story began in 2018 when Nic Bartolotta, a seasoned inventor and now its Chief Product Officer, stumbled upon a fascinating vehicle, which was a melding of a beach cruiser and a skateboard.

It was hanging on a Venice Beach wall.

"Nic’s mind began to race with ideas of turning that wall art into a vehicle that could move in magical ways," he says. 

At the heart of the Dryft Board's design is a patented three-wheel deck, with a center-mounted caster, and an electric front-wheel drive.

This unique configuration enables the Dryft Board's signature ability - precisely controlled slides, aka 'drifts'. The front-wheel motor ensures stability and control throughout a drift.

"The Dryft Board is a direct translation of fluid, lateral movement into emicromobility. Imagine the exhilaration of carving waves on a surfboard or descending a slope on a snowboard, but now translate that sensation to the street. Riders compare it to flying - thrilling yet controlled, grounding you in an environment that suddenly feels alive and interactive. Moto riders say it mirrors the sensation of sliding sideways," explains Zipper.

It features a 500-watt front hub motor paired with a high-performance 698Wh battery. The top speed is capped at 20 mph.

Its range spans 17-20 miles on a single charge, influenced by terrain, rider weight, and chosen riding style.

"Despite its advanced capabilities, the Dryft Board is accessible for newcomers yet provides endless layers of mastery for seasoned enthusiasts. And while the ride prioritizes fun, safety is never compromised. A low-deck design, hydraulic disc brakes, and inherent stability make it forgiving and reliable."

Resilient Yet Responsive

Safety is a core aspect of the Dryft Board's engineering, with the top speed capped at 20 mph.

"The wide wheelbase, complemented by independent suspension, delivers stability in all riding conditions, while the low, 4-inch deck height minimizes risk during sudden dismounts. Tektro hydraulic disc brakes provide exceptional stopping power, and the always-on lighting system ensures 360-degree visibility," says Zipper.

"Riders benefit from 1,000- lumen headlights, brake lights, and even drift lights, designed for maximum safety and style. The materials also underscore its durability and robustness. The chromoly-steel front frame excels in structural integrity, while the bamboo-carbon fiber deck provides a resilient yet responsive base for riders."

Adrenaline Rushing Rides

DRYFT1's vision extends beyond launching a single vehicle. It's cultivating an entirely new segment within e-mobility.

"We’re doubling down on innovation, with upcoming models designed for off-road adventures and racing. Expanding the HBX category, we plan to bridge transportation and recreation. Geographically, while our initial focus has been on the US, our ambitions are global. Europe, Latin America, and Asia have demonstrated incredible enthusiasm for cutting-edge micromobility solutions," says Zipper.

Countries like China, Japan, and Italy represent key markets, owing to their rich culture of adventure vehicles and appetite for pioneering technologies.

"Our mission is to deliver something fresh and exhilarating to riders across the world," he adds.

Finally, we asked Zipper what e-mobility in the US will look like by the end of the decade.

"Most companies are focused on urban transport. But we’re placing our bets that between now and 2030, e-micromobility owners will be demanding more joy from their rides. What sets our vision apart is that this isn’t about replicating existing adventure vehicles with ‘e-versions.’ Instead, it’s about creating a new experience with never-imagined ride forms," he predicts.

"You will see these vehicles breaking out in new racing leagues in the spirit of AMA Supercross and Formula 1. DRYFT1 will be a major player in this movement, shaping the future of both local e-mobility sports and making racing more accessible. While other players may try to capitalize on this trend, success will hinge on more than just speed."

"The true appeal will lie in showcasing e-vehicles that excel in precision control, agility, and the ability to deliver unique, thrilling, adrenaline rushing rides in the streets right outside your front door," concludes Zipper.