While not exactly an open secret, in recent years, there were carmakers that have considered e-scooters as the ideal vehicle for ‘last mile, first mile’ commuting. And here‘s another very bit of information gathered that looks very promising — New Zealanders have fallen in love with e-scooters. In 2018, there were more than 47,000 electric scooters imported, and the number keeps rising, which probably quadrupled in 2022. So there, electric scooters have a radiant future in the land of the long, white cloud.
Yes, the rental models have been considered as an alternative to riding the bus (or walking lengthy roads, but having their very own e-scooters is such an ‘in’ thing now that our dear reader might as well be thinking of buying one soon.
Initially, electric scooters were deemed a grave threat to the conventional private vehicles, as a mode of transportation to replace them cars.
But again, necessity beats resistance. Automotive makers are now very aware, conscious of the need to go with the trend – the key to the future, especially in the area of mobility. Realizing the imperative need to shift gears and also be “mobility” companies because they see a lucrative future wherein one may have a car or an SUV, but will need to also have an e-scooter for that “first mile, last mile” trip to some place.
Many car brands in New Zealand are already working on either manufacturing their own e-scooters or, at the very least, working with scooter-makers to produce custom-built products e-scooters.
It seems for the kiwi, e-scooters are getting to be more than just a temporary transport of convenience that’s worn and beaten up from use or abuse of different riders who rent the rideables. They are moving ahead towards wanting something that they can own, enjoy and be proud owners of.
The prices of electric scooters in New Zealand vary, quite unpredictably, depending on the features, specs, capability and quality. From $500 the cost of buying an e-scooter can go up to thousands — that is, if the potential buyer desires to get something really special.
Happy car owners who want to add fun, thrill and excitement to their motoring life can consider these five features that an electric scooter must possess before buying it.
1. Portability
In New Zealand, an ‘e-scooter’ as a vehicle must have an output of less than 300W. If you are seriously considering getting your own e-scooter, choose the one that is foldable. Your two-wheeler must have the feature and capability to fold away in an instant so that you carry it with you inside the bus, and also it’s easy to store under the seat.
2. Weight
Mearth S Series are high-performing, commuter electric scooters that are lightweight (weighing only 12.5 kg), compact, portable and foldable. It’s manageable for you to carry up and down the steps or bring it inside the building. When not in use, just pack it away and store in a cool, dry corner or area.
3. Power!
This is important: for an electric scooter to qualify as a “low powered vehicle” under NZ law, it must have a power output of less than 300W.
However, the power of the motor alone is not the sole guide. Maximum power output for an e-scooter is the result of multiplying the battery voltage by maximum amperage. So an e-scooter can have a 600W motor, but with a 12-volt battery and 21-amp controller, the maximum output is 252W. You can do the math.
4. Ride comfort
Since e-scooters have tiny wheels, sturdy, reliable tyres and suspension can make a big difference when it comes to ride comfort. Ride and handling is especially important because e-scooters have to be wearing wheels no larger than 355mm in diameter. So make sure your e-scooter has pneumatic tyres, just like the Mearth S Series. It’s got other models too, that are top-notch in features and have sophisticated suspension. This is one added feature that gets a car person really craving for it.
Check the range too, 20-30 km is common, although that depends on the rider’s weight. Another thing to check, does the e-scooter have brakes on both wheels or just the front? Some even have anti-lock braking.
5. Load space
This is a bit tricky, but if you want to use an e-scooter for a “last mile, first mile” commute, you’re likely to carry some stuff. A backpack or messenger bag will do. Don’t forget to use your helmet when riding.
Taking all these pointers in, a responsible and smart kiwi buyer who is decided on what he wants will know his options, guided by common sense tips. Afterall, the end game is having a stress-free trip, side by side nature’s scenic wonders. For more details, visit www.mearth.co.nz
Also read: How Long Does the Battery Last on a Dual Motor Electric Scooter?
