A skateboard may not be the usual choice for those over the age of 15, but a new design of battery-powered board may be ideal for plugging gaps in transport between homes and shops, railway stations or bus stops.
A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, but it’s the last bit of any trip that also proves a challenge for those travelling without a car.
Many people consider a distance of between 0.5 and 3 miles too far to tackle on foot, but may forsake using a bicycle for all manner of reasons. The makers of a electric motorised skateboard believe a top speed of 20mph, range of 6 miles between recharging, and supreme portability will encourage people to leave their cars at home for short journeys and perhaps even revolutionise the way we perceive personal transport and electric vehicles in particular.
Boosted Boards look indistinguishable from conventional long boards, but nestling between their wheels are a battery and twin electric motors rated at 2000 watts (2.6 horsepower).
The electric skateboards can be ordered for £800.
Is an electric skateboard for you?
There will be those who will scoff at the idea of an electric skateboard, but for many more the vehicles will be a revelation. While most people will use Boosted Boards as a fun recreational vehicle, commuters are likely to find them incredibly useful for what transport planners refer to as ‘the last mile’ – the distance between the railway station or bus stop and the journey’s end. The Boosted Board can be carried easily on any mode of public transport and stored without difficulty at the office or at home. And its range of 6 miles is more than enough for most commutes.
In terms of price, range and usability, lightweight vehicles like bicycles – and now skateboards – are the most practical option for those who want the benefits of an EV today. Electric vehicles of every description are currently in development, from aircraft to jet skis, but batteries remain expensive, heavy and troublesome to charge without widespread charging points.
Unlike cars, electric bicycles and skateboards are light enough to be carried into a house to be re-charged and if the battery runs flat, the rider can switch to leg power in an instant.
Sue Parkinson
This looks great if you live in a town or city with smooth pavements, and the portability is a bonus. But what about rural people? My nearest regular (1 every two hours) bus is 2 miles away down a very steep hill – I’m not sure this mode of transport is going to suit me and my situation. Please inventors, spare a thought for those of us in the countryside who would love a real alternative to the expense of a personal car. Here our low carbon travel options are really limited and our incomes are low!
Dave
Great work lads. An off road version will surely be on the cards so we will just have to be patient…Im looking forward to getting one of these with a couple of batterys.
Moggo
I would also like to see an AT version much like the new EVOLVE carbon range, favoring the fact that BOOSTED BOARDS drives BOTH back wheels and claim that “Steep San Francisco hills become easy to climb”, (something that has not been achievable in the past for a rider over 50kg). I think if you truly wish to market a board for commuting, then a pneumatic wheeled version is essential. I love the look of the BOOSTED BOARD and the fact that it keeps the original flex of the deck. The index finger roller controller thingy is a great idea too if it works as reliably as a Bluetooth gun controller. At least, if you do take a fall, you could put your hands out without smashing the controller into the tarmac. I wish these guys all the best and will be keeping an eye on their progress.