Every year, over 20 million people worldwide face mobility challenges—and staircases are a universal hurdle that leaves many dependent on others. Traditional wheelchairs simply weren’t designed for vertical movement, especially in older buildings, crowded venues, or public spaces without ramps.
Enter Scewo BRO, a revolutionary stair-climbing power wheelchair that’s rewriting the rules of accessibility. Drawing on Swiss engineering and award-winning design, BRO enables users to glide over flat surfaces and ascend staircases with confidence—no elevator or assistant required. Central to its global rollout is backing from forward-thinking investor Rajat Khare and his firm, Boundary Holding, through a CHF 11.5 million Series A round.
Why 20 Million People Need More Freedom
Mobility obstacles don’t discriminate—while people aged 59 to 67 make up a large portion, younger adults face similar hurdles. Every step can become a barrier, limiting—sometimes even excluding—their ability to grab coffee, visit someone, or simply move around freely.
Traditional wheelchair users, even with ramps, often find themselves at a standstill when stairs enter the picture. BRO isn’t just a clever gadget—it’s a breakthrough that brings self-reliance and dignity where it’s been missing.
Scewo BRO: Engineering Meets Innovation
Originally launched in 2014 by founders Bernhard Winter and Pascal Buholzer, Scewo didn’t take long to shake up the industry. In just three years, BRO went from an ambitious prototype to a polished product that earned the 2021 Swiss Medtech Award .
What makes BRO stand out?
-
Two-mode mobility: seamlessly shifts between two-wheel flat-ground moves and stair-climbing mode.
-
Top speed: 10 km/h on level surfaces.
-
Battery durability: over 1,000 charge cycles.
-
Smart sensors: detect steps, uneven surfaces, and automatically adjust for balance and safety.
Its sleek design, intuitive controls, and adaptability have resonated across Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and beyond
From CHF 11.5 m Series A to Global Vision
Between July and November 2021, Boundary Holding (led by Rajat Khare), Verve Ventures, and other private investors committed CHF 11.5 million to Scewo’s Series A round. Khare was drawn by BRO’s combination of deep-tech prowess and empathetic design. A meeting with Bernhard and Pascal confirmed a shared vision—and soon after, the investment was sealed
This funding turbocharged Scewo’s expansion, helping it scale operations across Europe—and setting sights on 2026 launches in the U.S. and Canada
What Sets BRO Apart
BRO is the only wheelchair on the planet offering both flat-ground agility and full stair-climbing capability . But its uniqueness goes deeper:
-
User comfort at the core
Adjustable seat, lumbar support, and headrest ensure personalized comfort. -
Smart, intuitive controls
Whether via smartphone app, side panel, or joystick, users can choose what’s best for them. -
Intelligent safety systems
Built-in sensors handle the hard work—detecting steps, adjusting tilt, and prioritizing balance. -
Software that grows smarter
Frequent over-the-air updates expand functionality and keep BRO cutting-edge -
Modularity and customization
Cup holders, trays, protective covers—the options keep evolving.
User Feedback & Market Reception
Interest has been overwhelming. As co-founder Bernhard Winter said:
“The interest from customers is huge! We are now evaluating strategically located and qualified distribution partners to offer local test drives and excellent service.”
Award bodies have also honored BRO’s mix of form and function—the 2021 Swiss Medtech Award is just one of many accolades.
The Tech Behind the Magic
BRO isn’t just mechanical—its intelligence comes from a fusion of robotics, IoT, and data:
-
Robust sensor network reads terrain, detects stair edges, and activates the track-based system.
-
Software ecosystem continually evolves with over-the-air improvements.
-
High-capacity batteries ensure long riding spans and over 1,000 charge cycles
It’s a holistic design blending technical excellence with real-world needs.
The Social Impact
BRO isn’t just a breakthrough product—it’s a social act. It delivers:
-
True independence: No need to wait for a ramp or assistant.
-
Confidence & inclusion: Freedom to navigate public spaces, homes, work environments.
-
Redefined accessibility: Moves the conversation past ramps toward universal design.
In homes, offices, restaurants—BRO’s mobility helps dismantle physical barriers and stigma.
Rajat Khare & Boundary Holding: Investing in Humanity
For Khare and Boundary Holding, success isn’t just about ROI—it’s about impact. BRO exemplifies their investment thesis:
-
Deep tech with societal relevance.
-
Scalable solutions that improve daily lives.
-
Sustainable, mission-driven business models.
Khare’s involvement goes beyond capital—this is strategic partnership aimed at reshaping accessibility.
What Comes Next: Innovation on the Horizon
Scewo has a bold roadmap powered by Khare’s backing:
-
Voice control via smart-assistant integration.
-
Outdoor terrain features for gravel, grass, and slopes.
-
Modular accessories to further personalize user experience.
-
North American rollout by 2026
These are game-changing upgrades that position BRO as a global leader in accessible mobility.
Rewriting the Story on Mobility
BRO isn’t just about stairs—it’s about rewriting what’s possible. Its emergence signals a shift:
-
Mobility devices are moving beyond utility into empowerment.
-
Assistive tech is becoming sleek, intuitive, and connected.
-
Inclusivity is no longer idealism—it’s innovation in motion.
Rajat Khare’s support signals a broader trend: deep-tech investments that center empathy and social good.
Final Thoughts:
With BRO, every flight of stairs conquered is a step toward independence—literally and metaphorically.
This isn’t just a product—it’s a movement: toward a world where architecture doesn’t limit access, and where every person can navigate their environment with autonomy and dignity.
Thanks to engineers like Bernhard and Pascal, and investors like Rajat Khare, we’re witnessing a future where mobility knows no bounds—and every staircase is just a path forward.
