Using electric scooters to get around cities has become very popular.
They make getting places easy. But some worry if they are safe or can go far enough.
How far an electric scooter can go depends on a few things — battery size, where you ride, and impact range. On one charge, most electric scooters go 15 to 30 miles. Some fancy ones drive up to 60 miles before needing a charge.
Electric scooters, or e-scooters, run on battery power instead of gas. This makes them very eco-friendly since they don't release any emissions. Their small size also takes up less space on streets. These benefits have made e-scooters super popular in cities recently.
One major plus is that electric scooters are affordable to use. Not needing gas saves money over time. Very little maintenance is required, too, compared to gas vehicles, which allow students and commuters to zip around at a low cost.
Another reason why it is popular is that e-scooters are convenient for quick trips. Their compact size squeezes through traffic and fits in tiny parking spots. You can even take them inside stores and offices. Fast acceleration gives you more time to enjoy the ride versus waiting at lights.
In addition, e-scooters promote healthy habits as well. Riders get fresh air during commutes or errands while squeezing in some exercise. The lightweight design also makes it easy for anyone to learn to ride.
Advanced electric models drive faster because lithium batteries store lots of power. Recharging takes no time, and there's no messy fuel to handle. Many scooters even have baskets, racks, or cases that owners may customize according to their preferences and aesthetics.
Knowing the range helps you plan trips without getting stranded with a dead battery. Before buying one, you must ensure an e-scooter can cover your travel needs.
The battery's amp-hour rating determines the range. More amp-hours means the battery can store more charge to drive farther. Upgrading to a larger battery directly increases the total range.
Heavier riders make the motor work harder, using up battery charge quicker. The heavier the load, the more power is needed to move, reducing the total range.
Hills, uneven ground, and other challenging terrain drain batteries faster than flat, smooth paths. Incline angles force the motor to draw more power. Plan routes with moderate terrain.
Cold temperatures sap battery performance. Speeding and frequent start/stops also use up charge rapidly. Careful riding in ideal weather saves power for maximum range. Charge fully before departure as well.
Your e-scooter's range depends significantly on how you care for and ride it. Following some key tips helps ensure you get the most miles per charge.
Be gentle on the throttle when accelerating and braking. Sudden speed boosts use extra juice. Maintaining a steady pace saves power over time. Also, avoid lots of hilly areas, which drain batteries faster.
Make sure to fully recharge batteries before setting off. Topping off to 100% gives you the maximum energy to utilize. Store scooters properly, keep them sheltered, and avoid temperature extremes when possible.
Check tire pressure routinely. Properly inflated tires roll more efficiently, putting less strain on batteries. And limit carrying heavy loads that overwork motors. Keep it light for the best range.
When shopping for an e-scooter, thinking about the range is essential. You want one that can satisfy your needs without constantly recharging. Here are some tips to get good mileage:
Check the battery capacity, usually listed in amp-hours (Ah). More is better for range. Upgrade if the model you like lacks distance.
Heavier weights make motors work extra. Ensure your scooter's limit exceeds your needs with some room to spare. Sturdy frames help here.
Well-made scooters last longer through wear & tear, maintaining good mileage. Solid tires, frames, and brakes increase efficiency over time.
Systems to absorb bumps let wheels rotate smoothly. Less strain on motors conserves battery charge. Shock absorption gives free miles!
Finding the right electric scooter can seem tricky, but focusing on a few key factors makes choosing much more accessible. Choosing your electric scooter wisely means getting one suited to your needs and enjoying all the perks of eco-friendly transportation without hassle.
Test riding first gives you a feel for models before committing. Once you make the decision to get one, you'll soon zip around town carefree on your perfect e-scooter match.
Luke Fitzpatrick has been published in Forbes, Yahoo! News and Influencive. He is also a guest lecturer at the University of Sydney, lecturing in Cross-Cultural Management and the Pre-MBA Program. You can connect with him on LinkedIn.