In the late 1990s, long before micro-mobility became a global movement, Wim Ouboter was already imagining cities differently. Where others saw congestion and inefficiency as inevitable, he saw opportunity. Smaller vehicles. Shorter distances. Smarter design.
Best known as the founder of Micro Mobility Systems, Ouboter sparked what many now call the micro revolution with the launch of the foldable scooter that became the Razor in the United States and the Micro Scooter across Europe and Asia. What began as a simple prototype tested on the streets of Zurich evolved into a worldwide phenomenon, transforming how people move through cities.
Today, with the introduction of the Microlino, Ouboter is once again challenging conventional thinking. This time he is questioning why single-occupancy commuters need oversized SUVs for short urban trips. In this exclusive conversation, he reflects on his unconventional beginnings, breakthrough growth moments, and the mindset driving the next era of compact mobility.
The Unconventional Beginning
We began by asking, “Can you share your career journey and what led you to your current position?”
“Having strong dyslexia, I was never a good student. But I had the vision to see things others could not see. My vision of urban mobility started in 1997 with a prototype that I was testing for several months. The outcome was a foldable mini scooter called RAZOR in the US and Micro Scooter in the rest of the world.”
That early prototype did more than launch a product. It launched a movement and redefined short-distance transportation.
Scaling a Global Revolution
Continuing the discussion, we asked, “What was a key moment in your business journey that shaped your approach?”
“In 1999 we went up from 500 workers to 15,000 workers in China to produce in three factories my idea of the Kickboard and the Micro Scooter. Seeing this volume with 80,000 Micro Scooters leaving every day the factory for the world was incredible.”
This explosive growth marked a turning point. It proved global demand and reinforced his belief that bold ideas, when executed decisively, can scale at extraordinary speed.
Strategy Over Routine
Shifting focus to leadership, we asked, “How do you manage long-term goals while handling daily operations?”
“I never focus on daily operations, only on strategic partnership with other companies.”
For Ouboter, sustainable innovation depends less on micromanagement and more on alliances that amplify vision and accelerate execution.
The Future of Urban Mobility
Turning to the next five years, we asked, “What latest technologies or shifts do you think will change your industry?”
“New mindset to think smaller. Microlino is the perfect product for downsizing and not using an SUV for every short trip with one person inside. We also call this the next ‘Tesla’ when it will come to disruption and market potential.”
The philosophy is simple. Most urban journeys involve one person traveling a short distance. Designing vehicles accordingly is efficiency.
Building a Culture of Momentum
We then explored team leadership. “How do you encourage learning and growth within your team?”
“Motivation, gratefulness, and a good salary beside a spirit that we can change the world to become a better place.”
His leadership combines commercial realism with purpose, reinforcing the idea that innovation can create meaningful impact.
A Defining Project
When asked about a transformative initiative, he reflected on the evolution of his product ecosystem.
“If you look into our Micro Brand Book, you will see our wide innovation for products. Now we concentrate on the Microlino in different varieties.”
From scooters to kickboards to electric microcars, the trajectory reflects consistent commitment to compact mobility.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs, we asked Wim Ouboter
As the conversation concluded, we asked, “What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs in your industry?”
“Find strategic partners, go to market quick and include the media in your journey. Always have enough cash and take care of your liquidity as time can change.”
It is pragmatic advice. Speed, visibility, and financial discipline form the foundation of sustainable innovation.
Final Reflection
Wim Ouboter’s journey demonstrates that transformative ideas often begin with simple observations. Most trips are short. Most cars are oversized. Most cities are overburdened.
By thinking smaller, he built something bigger. A global micro-mobility movement that continues to reshape how the world navigates urban space.
Connect with Wim Ouboter on LinkedIn to explore his journey in pioneering micro-mobility and redefining urban transportation for a smaller, smarter future.
Visit Micro Mobility Systems at https://www.micro-mobility.com/** to discover the evolution of the Micro Scooter, Kickboard, and the vision behind compact urban movement.
Explore the future of electric microcars at Microlino https://microlino-car.com/ and learn how downsizing is shaping the next generation of sustainable city transport.
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