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Arrow Electronics helped former IndyCar driver Sam Schmidt take his first public steps using a modified exoskeleton designed to provide semi-autonomous mobility.

After a racing crash left him paralyzed from the shoulders down more than two decades ago, former IndyCar driver Sam Schmidt thought he d never drive or walk again. But with help from Arrow Electronics, Schmidt took his first public steps last month using a modified exoskeleton designed to provide semi-autonomous mobility (SAM) to severely disabled individuals.

Walking with the help of technology is the latest chapter in Schmidt s long road to improved mobility. Since 2014, he has been driving—and even racing again—using a SAM technology package that enables him to command high-performance cars using head controls.

But even driving as fast as 201mph on racetracks can be easier than walking at 1mph.

10/17-19 EAC