Portuguese startup Pollen, incubated at Ciências ULisboa's Tec Labs, has been recognized by US magazine TIME as one of the best inventions of 2026. The distinction is for its battery swap system for two-wheeled electric vehicles, designed to be simple, economical, and fast, making electric mobility more accessible.
Pollen's universal replaceable battery is compatible with different brands and models of electric motorcycles. Through a subscription system, users can swap a depleted battery for a fully charged one in seconds at the company's automated stations. Operations in Lisbon began in March 2026.
The TIME Best Inventions list, which for 25 years has recognized innovative ideas and products, selected Pollen's technology for its potential to transform urban mobility and address barriers such as the high initial cost and charging times of electric vehicles.
The quick battery swap system aims to overcome current limitations, allowing riders to replace a depleted battery in seconds. The battery's compatibility with different brands and models enables the creation of a shared station network.
“"Cars are going electric, but motorcycles aren't, and Pollen exists to change that. Seven months ago, we put our first station on the street and we are working to reach more and more people. Seeing that work recognized by TIME is an acknowledgment of the entire team and an incentive to go further."
Since March 2026, Pollen has already performed over 25,000 battery swaps in Lisbon. The company, founded by Rui Bento and Miguel Morgado, raised 3.2 million euros in a pre-seed funding round.
