Racing around a dirt track on a motorbike, spraying mud all over the place: a dream for many children. Gilgen Door Systems business partner Kevin Hostettler, owner of an advertising technology company, and his wife Nadine are making this dream a reality in Schwarzenburg with the Volt Monkeys electrocross project. The owners are celebrating the inauguration of the 2200 square metre site this weekend. ‘The programme is aimed at boys and girls aged between five and 13,’ says Kevin Hostettler. For two days, they can throw themselves into the wild fun with the right rental equipment.
‘The sponsorship is worth its weight in gold’
The idea for Volt Monkeys was born seven years ago. It first materialised at specific events where Kevin and Nadine Hostettler were booked as entertainment for children. Then, in spring, they started building their own e-cross track. The newly established Volt Monkey GmbH brought sponsors on board during the construction phase and also approached Gilgen in the process. Kevin Hostettler is delighted that his concept convinced Gilgen: ‘When a project is still in its infancy, sponsorship is simply worth its weight in gold.’
Connecting the motorbike via Bluetooth
The Volt Monkeys concept consists of two core elements: Fun for kids and electric equipment. In contrast to most motocross race tracks, which are designed for competitive sport, the e-cross track in Schwarzenburg is a place to try out and practise. Kevin Hostettler explains: ‘The various bikes available for hire can be customised to suit the child's riding ability.’ He can connect the vehicles to an app via Bluetooth and thus determine the power, response behaviour and top speed of the motorbikes from his smartphone. The best way to find out exactly what this looks like in practice is on site.
