Electric scooters ready to help tackle global warming
The high prices of petrol and diesel, a growing awareness of global warming and a recent commitment from Gordon Brown to alternative-fuel vehicles mean the distributors of electric scooters in Britain are poised for a switch from cars to electric vehicles.
One such vehicle is the recently-launched e-max – a stylish-looking scooter that is visually indistinguishable from its petrol-powered counterparts.
e-max electric scooters have a top speed restricted to 30mph, which means that those with a driving licence issued before 2001 are automatically entitled to ride one.
Power is via an electric motor built into the rear wheel, which is virtually silent when in use.
The ‘fuel’ is provided by sealed batteries which, like the motor, are completely maintenance free.
A spokesperson for the Environmental Transport Association (ETA) said: “Many drivers affected by the congestion charge in London have already discovered the financial and environmental advantage of petrol-powered scooters, but it’s hard to gauge how many will go electric. If you buy your electricity from a sustainable source, this is about as green as motoring can be at present.”
How do electric scooters ride?
A few of us at the ETA tested an e-max electric scooter over the course of a weekend. Despite its relatively heavy weight the e-max did not intimidate even those who were new to scootering. Existing motorcyclists found the scooter’s performance limp, but this complaint will not apply to most people. Everyone enjoyed its silent running. Overall, an easy-to-live-with scooter with which to replace a second car or an ideal occasional green alternative for cycle commuters.
| The e-max scooter’s performance | …at a glance |
|---|---|
| Maximum speed | 30mph |
| Maximum range | 55miles |
| Charging time | 3-5 hours |
| Battery warranty | 10,000km or 2 years |
| Green rating | It’s no bicycle, but if you buy your electricity from a sustainable source its carbon footprint is tiny |
| Cost per mile | 1p |
| Cost to buy | £2,760 |
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What is the ETA?
The ETA is a not-for-profit ethical organisation providing motorists and cyclists with carbon-neutral breakdown cover and insurance products. As well as encouraging responsible driving to reduce carbon, the ETA campaigns for sustainable transport.
