Scooters are dangerous. The small front wheel in more prone sudden twisting when one hits a bump or object in the road. But it is hard to resist riding a Fremont Motors all electric scooter "Fido." At speeds of up to 45 miles per hour, this scooter can get you to distances up to 35 miles. This is definitely meant for short trips. However, the battery in easily removed for swapping and external charging. So, if a second or third battery is carried, distance is multiplied. Also, the storage compartment under the seat can be worn as a backpack. Although in the prototype stage, Fremont Motors plans to start selling by the third quarter of 2011 at the $5000 price point. See more at Fremont Motors' website.
What is particularly inspiring about this scooter is not the design, but that fact that one person, Jeb Gast, has entered the automotive industry. Electric scooters already exist. Battery powered motor systems exist. Jeb Gast had an idea for a better electric scooter and rolled with it, so to speak. The most unique part of the scooter is intentional on Gast's part, recharging unit is removable for charging elsewhere. "You should be able to carry everything you need in the glove-box and be able to charge your battery in your 3rd floor apartment without dragging the scooter up the stairs or hanging an extension cord out the window." He is focused on a niche market and demographic, and he is poised to succeed. His Do It Yourself message and acheivement is inspiration to us all.
Eavesdropper