Electric scooter with portable battery

A British company has introduced the UK's first electric scooter that uses a fully detachable and portable lithium battery.

Traditionally, electric two-wheelers in the UK have used fixed silicon batteries.

One drawback is that these require the owner to run an extension lead from a mains electricity socket to the vehicle's integrated battery.

However, with the Econogo Yogo, owners can remove and charge their battery like a mobile phone in their own home, or even at work.

The scooter can store a second detachable battery, meaning that it will run for 22 + 22 miles using both batteries.

Batteries recharge in 1 hour; far less than conventional models which typically require 4-8 hours in order to achieve a partial/full charge via an extension lead.

The Econogo Yogo is available in two options: The first option is classified as a moped; the equivalent of a 50cc petrol engine moped with a 27mph capability.

Owners who passed their driving test before February 2001 can drive this version without taking the CBT test, and no further qualifications are needed.

The second, more powerful option is the unrestricted 1500W motorcycle with a 38mph capability.

This is the equivalent to a 100cc motorbike. Owners will need a CBT licence to drive one of these.

Source : http://www.newcarnet.co.uk (4/8/2010)