Audi plans to expand its E-tron label to the world of kick
scooters in 2020 when it puts into production the E-Tron Scooter, a concept for
which was unveiled on Monday.
Electric scooters are growing in popularity in many major
cities, though a major downside of most designs is that they require both hands
on the handle bar for steering and stability. This makes it hard to provide
hand signals for turns, for example.
Audi's E-tron Scooter solves this with a design that is more
like an electrically powered skateboard. You stand on your side when using the
scooter and only need a single hand for stability. Steering is done by shifting
your weight. Audi said the scooter's movable axles enable the scooter to make
surprisingly tight curves.
The E-tron Scooter is also relatively light at 26 pounds and
can be folded for easy transport. The top speed is 12.5 mph and the range is
about 12.5 miles, though this is only achieved with sufficient brake energy
regeneration via the single foot-controlled brake. Wall outlet charging can be
done at home, and owners of the E-tron
electric SUV—and presumably future Audi EVs—will be able to charge the
scooter using a port inside their vehicle.
For a bit of personalization, Audi will offer a choice of a
wood finish or carbon for the deck and either gray or black paint. And by
linking your phone via a Bluetooth connection, owners will be able to adjust
the ride characteristics as well as lock the scooter.
Audi plans to start sell the E-tron Scooter in late 2020 at
a price of around 2,000 euros (approximately $2,240). The company has confirmed
direct sales to customers, though it's also looking at adding the scooters to
shared fleets. No word yet if it will be available in the United States.
by Viknesh Vijayenthiran
http://www.boscheuropean.com
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