For those of us who have missed countless connections due to hauling heavy suitcases across mile long terminals, our rushed travel days are long gone. The world’s first motorized—and rideable--- suitcase has arrived. Recently launched onto the crowdfunding site Indiegogo, the Modobag appears to be your standard black suitcase, but it’s so much more.
Among its many unique features it has GPRS-GSM tracking, dual USB charging ports and can get you to your destination three times faster than an average walking speed. It can reach up to eight miles per hour, has a dual-braking system, quick release foot pedals, extendable handle and a high-performance CNC-machined steering column. Additionally, there is an optional “connected” feature that comes with a mobile companion app for iOS and Android users equipped with GPRS and GSM technology that can track Modobag’s location and send consumers “Proximity Alerts”, even if the suitcase is in storage (not usually detected by traditional GPS).
At only 19 pounds, it is both lightweight and a perfect fit for the dreaded overhead compartment. Meaning no extraneous bag checking fees and no lost baggage when you finally land at your desired location.
Modobag is the brainchild of two Chicago entrepreneurs, Kevin O’Donnell and Boyd Bruner. Bruner is an award-winning technical director who won the 2014 AMA Pro Road Racing Daytona 200. Both are passionate about traveling and wanted to create an innovative way to improve people’s travelling experiences. With a team of MIT educated urban mobility specialists, plus an award winning consumer development and design firm, they have succeeded in their mission.
“We created Modobag to revolutionize the way people travel and introduce one of the biggest updates to carry-on luggage since rolling suitcases were launched in the 1970’s,” said O'Donnell, CEO of Modobag. “With Modobag’s user-friendly, rideable carry-on, anyone from professionals to college students can eliminate their daily stress of commuting by getting to their destination faster, keeping their electronics charged and having fun while they do it.”
With the vision to change the way the world travels, Modobag has a goal of raising $50,000 on their Indiegogo site by September 9. To encourage donations, they are offering limited-time Early Bird specials of $995, 30 percent off their retail price, among other incentives for backers. If you want to make a donation, head online to igg.me/at/modobag.