GoPet scooter debuts offering eco-friendly transportation |
If you are looking for a way to commute over short distances or get around campus without breaking a sweat or buying gas there are a few options for you. One of the options is the Segway, but the things are very expansive.
A new electric scooter has debuted that is perfect for around campus travel called the GoPet scooter. The device has a 48V, 350W direct drive front hub motor. The motor is capable of moving the scooter at up to 16mph and it has a range of 25 miles on a single charge.
Recharging the battery costs about ten cents and takes 4-6 hours with the included 110V smartcharger that turns off when the battery is fully charged. The three-wheel scooter is ridden by standing on a platform and an optional seat is available. Other options include folding handlebars and a trailer. Pricing is unannounced at this time.
TAGS: GoPet, scooter
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These things may be cheaper than a Segway but, they are not legal on sidewalks or streets in most states under the EPAMD statutes.
EPAMD (Electric Personal Assisted Mobility Device) state statutes are usually superceded by local municipal codes. If the machine is driven with some care the police will mostly ignore it, but in case of attention, work to push through a change in muni code. I think the base cost of the GoPet is less than $1500, which is one fourth the cost of a comparable Segway. GoPet offers a little less flexible mobility, but almost as much fun, and more flexible posture with the seat option. The GoPet is safer too, as it is not subject to whip falls from obstructions that confuse the self-balancing of a segway. GoPet is much easier to learn to ride well.
This thing looks like a goofy version of a GoPed.
I drive a GoPed ESR750ex, 24v,24ah, 750w electric scooter around my campus, and have had no issues. While Bob correctly states that these are illegal on sidewalks and streets, campuses are a great place for them. I also ride my goped all around town, and have never had any problems…even asked an officer, and he said “while its not technically legal, as long as people arent calling in complaints you wont have any issues”.
Since this is electric, it should be pretty quiet, and not get too many complaints, but it looks way goofier than a GoPed and isnt as fast. I also seriously doubt that it will go 25 miles at 16mph on a 48v direct drive motor. While those numbers are acheivable, you would need expensive battery technology, which if it has that, it will be closer in comparison to a segway in price
I rode my first GoPet at an Orlando builder conference, bought one of the demo models and signed up to be a dealer…see http://www.gopetorlando.com I tested for distance and it will safely (so you don’t have to walk home) go 20 miles on a charge – 10 miles out and 10 miles back (that’s what I tell my customers) and I’m sure it will go 16 MPG but I usually do about 10 MPH on mine. Check it out and if you are in the Orlando area come take a test ride for free.