Safe bicycle parking is a crucial aspect of micro-mobility and infrastructure in cities. Despite this obvious need, the vast majority of cyclists do not have access to safe, smart, or attractive parking.
That’s what Oonee, a startup made up of two young New Yorkers — Stuart Shabazz and J. Manuel Mansylla — is trying to change with its innovative solution.
Called Oonee Mini, it is a modular and customizable pod that delivers up to 10 secure bike parking spaces in place of one car. This fancy pod has been designed with many tech and design innovations to make life easier for cyclists while respecting the beauty of the places.
Inside the pod, there is an air pump that provides “free air,” with hydraulic sliding doors offering easy automated opening and closing. On the top, we see a planter box, ideal for “keeping in tune with nature” and to create a welcoming environment for cyclists who are looking to store their bikes safely.
Oonee Mini also features smart access technology that allows for unlocking via the smartphone app or the keycard, eliminating any chances of bike theft.
Each Mini pod comes with customizable accent cladding and colors that can provide an individual touch to unique settings and streetscapes. Besides, a scratch-resistant powder coat paint helps protect the pod from vandalism and damage, while its glossy finish ensures they are reflective and visible during evening hours. Interior lighting allows cyclists to find their bikes inside Mini.
Thanks to an initial sponsorship from VOI, the company is bringing the two first Oonee Mini to the streets of New York City. From there on, the company hopes that a network of micro-mobility-supportive smart infrastructure can fundamentally change urban streetscapes.
Takeaway
Each Mini packs Smart Access technology to allow for unlocking by a keycard or a smartphone, and there is interior illumination to let cyclists find their bike even during the darkest hours of the night. Also included are air pumps and fancy hydraulic sliding doors.
Design-wise, the company can customize its pods to provide an individual touch to unique settings and streetscapes — while also providing greenery and planting boxes for plantings.
Action point
VOI was the first to sponsor Oonee to bring two of its pods to New York City. Perhaps your community could come in next? This can't cost a fortune, yet it would send a strong message to your constituents — that you want them to bike more and thus be more healthy. This is something many cities from all around the world are doing and now's your chance to relatively easily join the "two-wheeled party."
Nothing stops you from contacting Oonee to explore whether you could be their partner or distributor for the communities your business serves. More than a one-time job, this could turn into a multi-year deal with local governments as someone would still have to maintain those fancy pods. And that means recurring income for you and your company. Considering that biking is getting more popular with the day, this should be an easy sell.