VIDEO: Leeds Council plugs into battery powered scooter of future
Video
Leeds Council tries out battery powered scooters
Published Date:
21 November 2008
By Rory Hillas
SILENT, but not deadly to the environment.
That was the message Leeds City Council was giving out about the new electric scooter it was promoting outside the Civic Hall yesterday.
The Vestrix Maxi-Scooter – price £6,900 – is completely battery-powered with no harmful emissions, extremely quiet and can be recharged by simply plugging it into a regular socket, like any household appliance.
The battery life allows you to travel up to 50 miles at a time and can cost as little as 20p to recharge.
It isn't sluggish, either.
The bike can do 0-50mph in seven seconds and has a top speed of 62mph.
They are already used by Hampshire Police Force.
Coun Andrew Carter, executive member for transport and travel said: "Electric vehicles are an important tool in reducing our CO2 emissions, and this scooter is a prime example of smarter travel choices that are becoming more freely available.
"We have to raise awareness.
"Its something we have to take seriously. In the long run it is very important."
Exempt
Becky Prosser, road safety manager for the Road Safety Promotion Unit said: "Part of the problem is convincing the public. In the past there have been problems.
"Either the machines weren't reliable, didn't look the part or didn't have the range. This seems to solve these issues.
"I might get one – its another viable option."
In London, the machines are exempt from the congestion charge and parking fees.
When asked what the two-wheelers could do for Leeds, Coun Carter said: "It is an alternative way to get around.
We have to give it our full support."
The full article contains 280 words and appears in n/a newspaper.
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Last Updated:
21 November 2008 8:43 AM
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Source:
n/a
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Location:
Leeds