Prince William Takes Test Ride on Electric Scooter - Prince William tests futuristic mobility aids in Bristol tech tour

Prince William visited Bristol on January 22, 2026, to explore cutting-edge technologies supporting older and disabled adults. His tour included a test ride on an advanced electric scooter and a demonstration of innovations aimed at improving daily life. The visit highlighted research at the University of Bristol and the Bristol Robotics Laboratory.

At the Bristol Robotics Laboratory, the Prince of Wales tried out a three-wheeled seated scholar designed for stability and ease on uneven surfaces. He remarked on its smooth handling and admitted a personal liking for faster models. The lab also showcased an exoskeleton prototype to aid those with limited movement, part of wider efforts to enhance mobility for vulnerable groups.

During his visit, Prince William examined a washing machine filter developed by Matter, a finalist for his own Earthshot Prize. The device captures microplastics released in laundry cycles, and he expressed surprise at the volume collected after just ten washes. Researchers also presented smart socks that monitor stress levels in dementia patients, alerting carers to potential distress. Earlier in the day, the prince toured Isambard-AI, the UK’s most powerful supercomputer. The facility supports climate research and medical breakthroughs, reinforcing the university’s focus on technologies that promote independent, dignified living for older populations.

The visit underscored Bristol’s role in developing assistive technologies for ageing and disabled communities. Innovations like the electric scooter, exoskeleton, and microplastic filters aim to address practical challenges in daily life. Prince William’s engagement highlighted ongoing collaborations between research institutions and industry partners.