It was just a year ago that we heard about the Uno Bolt, a rather nifty one-wheeled self-balancing electric scooter. Well, if it was still just a bit "too much" scooter for you, it's now got a little sibling named the Mini.
Designed to be ridden either seated or standing up (the seat post can be removed), the gyroscope-packin' Uno Bolt Mini can reportedly go up to 15 miles (24 km) on a one-hour charge of its standard LG lithium-ion battery pack, or 23 miles (37 km) if buyers go for the long-range battery. In either case, the battery can be removed for charging, or it can be charged while securely key-locked into the scooter.
The 500W brushless motor takes riders up to a top speed of 22 mph (35 km/h), and they won't crush the Mini as long as they weigh no more than 270 lb (122 kg). The scooter itself, with battery, tips the scales at 29 lb (13 kg) – by contrast, the original Uno Bolt weighs 45 lb (20 kg).
Some of the Mini's other features include an LED headlight and tail light; a backlit LCD screen that displays information such as speed, distance travelled, and battery charge level; a gel foam seat with a built-in handle for carrying the scooter; a tubeless tire; and a wheel lock that keeps the vehicle from rolling away when parked.
If you're interested, the Mini is currently the subject of an Indiegogo campaign. A pledge of US$699 will get you one with a standard battery, assuming it reaches production. The planned retail price is $899. Potential buyers might also want to check out the quite similar Kiwano K01.
You can see the Uno Bolt Mini in use, in the video below.
Source: Indiegogo
I certainly would not want to be hit by one. Hence my point is that while I hate regulation, surely some form of third party insurance should be complusory.
I rather look forward to such machines becoming ubiquitous and truly mainstream,e.g. for 'last mile' transport but will they be used in shopping malls and then shall we find people going round the supermarket on them? ....sounds a bit dangerous for mums with kids!