Supportive networks driving Vidde’s success

Vidde was born from the founders’ own experience of snowmobiling and their realisation of the significant environmental impact of these vehicles.

“When I started reflecting on how snowmobiles affect both emissions and noise levels, I realised they are one of the strongest candidates for electrification. It was an opportunity to create something that was not only technically innovative, but also sustainable,” he says.

His vision was to electrify snowmobiles to reduce emissions and noise, while also making the vehicles more efficient and durable.

From idea to reality through key milestones

To take the project from concept to product, Vidde has worked intensively to secure the right partners, build a customer base willing to participate at an early stage and attract investors who share the vision of an electrified future. One successful collaboration is the partnership with Italian design house Pininfarina, one of the world’s leading automotive design firms, which has been instrumental in shaping the product’s design and user experience.

“By making them part of our core team, we have been able to benefit from their unique processes and expertise,” says Christian.

The collaboration has resulted in several prestigious design awards, including Gold at the German Design Award and the US Green Good Design Award.

Maintaining momentum has also been critical. Vidde has managed this through a small and experienced team where each member takes responsibility for specific areas and is accustomed to solving complex challenges. In addition, the company has received invaluable support from a range of relevant partners.

Support from Skellefteå Science City and others

One of Vidde’s biggest challenges has been hardware development in the early stages, where costs are high and development timelines are long. Support from organisations such as Skellefteå Science City, Vinnova, the Swedish Energy Agency and RISE has been decisive.

“We would not have come this far without the funding and expert support we have received. It has allowed us to focus on product development instead of constantly worrying about financing,” says Christian Lystrup.

One example is the innovation vouchers facilitated by Skellefteå Science City through Vinnova, which played an important role in helping the company secure its first patent and conduct product testing.

The support system has been crucial for startups like Vidde. At the same time, Christian notes that navigating it can be challenging and requires time, energy and careful preparation to identify which funding instruments best match a company’s needs.

“We have received excellent guidance, which has been extremely valuable. There are many dedicated professionals within the support system who are passionate about helping companies succeed. Talk to them. They have insights and experience that can truly help you grow.”

Lessons and advice for other startups

Throughout the journey, Christian has gathered valuable lessons he is eager to share with other startups.

“One of the most important lessons has been to involve end customers early in the process, so you know that what you are developing has a market and that customers are willing to pay when the product is ready.”

He also encourages companies not to be afraid to showcase their ideas, even when they are not fully developed.

“Being transparent and showing what you are building, even if it is not perfect, opens up collaborations and opportunities that might otherwise never arise.”

He advises entrepreneurs to seek support from skilled people around them, reach out and ask for help, as many are willing to contribute if they can.

“The people in Västerbotten are accessible and supportive. The region provides an excellent environment for getting the guidance and backing you need along the way.”

Looking ahead with sustainability and growth in focus

The next milestone for Vidde is the launch of its electric snowmobile during the winter season 2024 to 2025.

“We have worked hard to bring our first product to life, and it feels fantastic to finally be close to launch. We are truly looking forward to seeing our first customers use and experience the vehicle.”

The company is also continuing to develop its sustainability ambitions, with the goal of reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 85 percent compared with today’s alternatives.

“For us, sustainability is about more than technology. We want to create a circular system where we take responsibility for the entire lifecycle of our products. This is only the beginning. We have ambitious plans ahead,” Christian concludes.