Electric skis ROSSIGNOL: Megawatt 90, technical specifications and verdict ALPINSTORE

Rossignol launches the first electric skis: story, specifications, and critical look

After the connected skis two years ago with PIQ, ROSSIGNOL has taken a step forward by offering, in October 2019, the first electric skis. Here we dissect the announcement, put things in context, and speak frankly about the Megawatt 90: for enthusiasts, contemplatives, and the intrepid.

Designed in Sallanches in utmost secrecy, the engineers are proud of this success. Contacted yesterday by fax, project manager Thibault Ampere confided to us: "It's three and a half years of development, with a ski equipped with extraordinary technologies. We have integrated a next-generation propulsion motor connected to a rechargeable battery via Bluetooth. They can climb slopes up to 55°." Yes, you read that right. We tell you without bullshit.

The promise: to set off with skis on, create your GPS track, and let yourself be guided to the summit. With the ROSSMAPS app, you can trace your path, follow it, and share your lines. A technological feat that will make waves. But a feat must be analyzed: real autonomy, weight, maintenance, safety on the terrain, and utility according to practices.

At ALPINSTORE, we are not here to sell dreams. We test. We weigh. We estimate. We give you options: if you want to complete your setup, we also offer alpine ski equipment adapted to the constraints of a motorized ski.

The Megawatt 90: commented technical specifications

• dimensions: 121 / 90 / 110: a versatile program, oriented towards touring and steep slopes.
• autonomy: 4 h 20 at 5.2 km/h for 1,850 m of elevation gain: manufacturer figures, to be validated in real conditions.
• power supply: 220 V charger, AC/DC socket, USB recharge; integrated solar panels for emergency charging.
• software: ROSSMAPS option €100 with integrated control from the smartphone; voice recognition via ROSSVOICE.
• binding: R2D2: unprecedented interface, to be tested with your boot and DIN.
• production: 1,024 skis produced, or 512 pairs: limited series, a marketing decision taken.
• announced price: €1,850: surprising positioning, discussed below.

Not homologated Pierra Menta: an important precision for competitors and raids. And yes, there is also an integrated radar map and, in a humorous note, compatibility with "Mario Kart Wii Steering Wheel." We joke, but the embedded technology is real.

Who is this type of device for?

Direct question: for whom are these electric skis designed? For those who want to push the limits, for technical practitioners looking for autonomy and economic ascent, and for curious technophiles. It is not necessarily the best choice for everyone: if your goal is minimal weight for pure mountaineering, you will need to think.

If you are hesitating between several pairs, we help you choose: how to choose your alpine skis when motorization comes into play? First, think about the weight/autonomy ratio; then, about the modularity of the components and maintenance on the terrain.

Safety, maintenance, and additional equipment

Safety first: an embedded motor changes the constraints. Consider adapted safety solutions, such as an electric airbag backpack if you are going into challenging terrain. And don't forget maintenance: we recommend accessible tools and parts. At home or in a refuge, snowboard maintenance accessories can also serve for electrical and mechanical components.

Variants, practice, and uses

ROSSIGNOL announces a product for the general public; but the range could expand: it would not be surprising to see lighter versions for hiking or wider models for powder. There are also freeride skis on the market intended for DIY enthusiasts who want to adapt a motor kit or modify the flex.

For those who love the park and style, the question arises: can freestyle and motorization be reconciled? If you want to buy freestyle skis online, you will want to compare base behavior and modification possibilities. In our opinion, the Megawatt 90 primarily aims for autonomy and versatility rather than purely freestyle tricks.

Price, positioning, and alternatives

€1,850 for a motorized pair is a surprising positioning: neither completely entry-level nor high-end. If your budget is tighter, there is alternative equipment; to find cheap ski equipment, prioritize seasonal promotions and refurbished equipment. ALPINSTORE offers clear advice to avoid being misled.

Verdict and recommendations ALPINSTORE

We tell you without disguise: the technology is exciting. The idea of going up calmly and then coming back down, of creating personal tracks, is powerful. But beware of marketing promises. At the time of writing, many terrain elements still need to be verified: battery reliability in the cold, moisture resistance, total weight on the leg, compatibility of boots, and motor responsiveness in conversion.

If you want to get started, try to test if possible. And if you need accessories or technical advice, come see our team of seasoned athletes: they have tested, used, and selected the products in the field. We will offer you alternatives and the right reflexes before investing.

In conclusion: ROSSIGNOL has shaken up the sliding world. The Megawatt 90 is a statement of intent. We applaud the boldness. But before adopting, we advise caution, testing, and reflection on actual use. And if you want to complete your setup, ALPINSTORE also offers solutions to start or optimize your practice.

PS: while waiting for this feat to materialize... or not, we remind you that it was April 1st in the land of fish. ROSSIGNOL already sells electric mountain bikes, and the technological path is open. We remain passionate, expert, and pragmatic. Until the next track.