About Ninebot
Ninebot (Chinese: 九号; pinyin: Jiǔhào) is a Chinese technology brand specializing in smart personal mobility products, electric vehicles, robotics, and intelligent transportation solutions. The brand is owned by Ninebot Limited, which operates internationally as Segway-Ninebot following a strategic combination with Segway Inc. in 2015.[1]
Ninebot is widely recognized for its electric kick scooters, self-balancing vehicles, electric bicycles, electric two-wheelers, go-karts, off-road vehicles, and consumer robotics. The company positions itself as a developer of intelligent short-distance transportation technologies that integrate electric power systems, artificial intelligence, sensors, and robotics.[2]
Overview
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Brand name | Ninebot (九号) |
| Company | Ninebot Limited (Segway-Ninebot) |
| Founded | 2012 |
| Founder | Ninebot Inc. founding team |
| Headquarters | Beijing, China |
| Industry | Smart mobility, robotics, electric vehicles |
| Parent company | Ninebot Limited |
| Global relationship | Owner of Ninebot and Segway brands |
| Stock listing | Shanghai Stock Exchange STAR Market (688009.SH) |
| Main products | Electric scooters, e-bikes, self-balancing vehicles, robots, powersports vehicles |
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History
Founding (2012)
Ninebot was established in 2012 in Beijing, China, with an initial focus on robotics and personal mobility technologies. The company entered the emerging intelligent transportation sector by developing self-balancing electric vehicles intended to provide convenient urban mobility options. In its early years, Ninebot concentrated on competing within the self-balancing vehicle category through products utilizing gyroscopic sensors, electronic control systems, and intelligent balancing technology.[1]
Growth and Investment (2014)
In 2014, Ninebot secured significant investment from technology investors including Xiaomi Corporation, Sequoia Capital, and other investment groups. This funding facilitated accelerated product development and supported global expansion efforts.[1]
Acquisition of Segway and Global Expansion (2015)
A pivotal moment occurred in 2015 when Ninebot completed a strategic combination with Segway. This merger created Segway-Ninebot, combining Segway’s international reputation and patents in self-balancing transportation with Ninebot’s engineering capabilities and manufacturing scale in China. The union also provided access to expanded global distribution networks, establishing the combined entity as a major player in the global smart mobility industry.[1]
Public Listing (2020)
In October 2020, Ninebot Limited became publicly listed on the Shanghai Stock Exchange STAR Market. This listing marked the company’s status as one of the notable Chinese technology firms focused on intelligent mobility and robotics.[2]
Brand Philosophy
Ninebot’s mission is summarized as: “Simplify the movement of people and things, making life more convenient and fun.”
The company utilizes electric drive systems, robotics, and intelligent technologies to enhance short-distance transportation and everyday mobility.[1] Its brand philosophy centers around four key pillars:
- Smart mobility: Making urban transportation easier and more efficient.
- Technology innovation: Applying robotics and AI technologies to consumer products.
- Sustainability: Promoting electric-powered alternatives to traditional transportation.
- User experience: Designing products around convenience, safety, and enjoyment.[1]
Product Categories
Electric Kick Scooters
Ninebot is among the world’s most recognized manufacturers of electric scooters. Its KickScooter series encompasses products designed for daily commuting, urban transportation, long-range riding, and performance riding. Popular models include the Ninebot KickScooter MAX series, Ninebot F series, Ninebot P series, and various Segway-branded KickScooters.[2]
Self-Balancing Vehicles
The brand developed a range of personal balancing vehicles using electronic stabilization technology. These products include self-balancing scooters, electric unicycles, and personal transporters, continuing the technological direction originally popularized by Segway.[2]
Electric Two-Wheelers
Ninebot has expanded its portfolio to include electric motorcycles, electric mopeds, and smart bicycles. These vehicles typically feature connected mobile apps, digital dashboards, battery management systems, and smart security features.[2]
Robotics
The company has invested significantly in consumer and service robotics. Its robotics lineup includes personal robots, delivery robots, service robots, and AI-powered mobility platforms. The robotics division explores applications across residential, commercial, and public environments.[2]
Powersports Vehicles
Through the Segway-Ninebot powersports division, the company produces all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), utility vehicles (UTVs), and off-road electric vehicles. These products extend Ninebot’s mobility technology beyond standard urban transportation use cases.[2]
Technology
Intelligent Control Systems
Ninebot vehicles incorporate gyroscopic sensors, electronic controllers, smart battery management, and vehicle stability systems. These technologies enable precise control and enhanced safety during operation.[1]
Internet Connectivity
Many Ninebot products support smartphone connectivity via mobile applications. This allows users to monitor vehicle status, adjust riding settings, track usage data, and perform firmware updates.[1]
Battery Technology
The company develops lithium-ion battery systems optimized for range, charging efficiency, safety management, and long-term durability.[1]
Global Presence
Segway-Ninebot operates internationally with offices and business operations spanning Asia, Europe, and North America. Its products are sold in numerous countries and regions worldwide.[1] Additionally, the company has established itself as a major supplier in the shared electric scooter market, providing vehicles used by many mobility-sharing operators globally.[1]
Relationship Between Ninebot and Segway
Although frequently mentioned together, Ninebot and Segway represent distinct brand histories:
| Brand | Origin | Main Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Segway | United States, founded 1999 | Pioneer of self-balancing personal transportation |
| Ninebot | China, founded 2012 | Smart mobility, robotics, manufacturing innovation |
Following their 2015 combination, both brands have continued to operate under the Segway-Ninebot group.[1]
Market Position
Ninebot has emerged as a leading company in the global micro-mobility industry. Its competitive advantages include large-scale manufacturing capability, strong research and development investment, an extensive patent portfolio, international brand recognition, and a broad product ecosystem. The company reports holding thousands of intellectual property assets and serving customers across many global markets.[1]
Brand Significance
Ninebot represents the transition from traditional transportation toward intelligent electric mobility. Its products reflect broader trends in urbanization, sustainable transportation, connected devices, personal robotics, and smart cities. The brand has helped popularize electric scooters and compact electric vehicles as practical alternatives for short-distance travel.[1]





