Electric Scooters Taking the World by Storm
Electric scooters have become increasingly popular in recent years, especially among young people in urban areas who use these convenient two-wheelers for getting around town. While e-scooters have gained popularity in Europe and Asia, they have received mixed reactions, with some places encouraging their use and others implementing partial bans due to safety concerns.
Whether or not electric scooters are a practical mode of transportation depends on various factors that we won't delve into today. Regardless of your opinion on e-scooters, it's hard to deny that many of them feature impressive technology and are quite cool. One example is the Zebra09, a rugged, four-wheeled electric scooter that offers off-road capabilities and the ability to haul cargo.
The Zebra09 is a product of Zebra Mobility, a Chinese e-mobility company based in Shenzhen. Zebra has launched a Kickstarter campaign for the Zebra09 and has raised $39,380 USD at the time of writing. The scooter boasts impressive specifications, and the 42 backers likely have high expectations for the final product.
The Zebra09 is equipped with two electric motors powering the rear wheels, delivering a combined output of 2,000 watts, making it more powerful than most e-bikes and e-scooters on the market. It rides on nine-inch wheels with off-road rubber tires and features a steel frame, weighing in at 45 kilograms (approximately 100 pounds). The scooter can also be fitted with an optional trailer capable of carrying up to 250 kilograms (551 pounds), including the rider.
With a 960-watt-hour battery pack, the Zebra09 offers a range of 45 kilometers (28 miles) on a single charge. Charging time is estimated at four to six hours using a standard household socket. The scooter is designed to withstand the elements, with the battery, motor, and controller rated IP6, and other components rated IP5. It also features a built-in LED headlight with a 1,000-lumen output for nighttime visibility on trails and gravel roads.
For added convenience, the Zebra09 can be ridden either seated or standing, thanks to a foldable saddle. It can also be folded for storage, with compact dimensions of 41 x 24 x 11 inches. However, lifting or stowing the scooter may prove challenging due to its weight.
The Zebra09 is available for pre-order on Kickstarter for 929 euros (approximately $1,000 USD). As with any crowdfunding campaign, it's important to exercise caution when supporting projects on platforms like Kickstarter. To learn more about the Zebra09, visit its official Kickstarter page.
