Nearly a year ago, Ninebot out of China purchased Segway in a deal that hoped to revive the struggling brand. Last fall we detailed the first product released under the new Xiaomi name. Part of the goal of this merger was to license out Segway’s self-balancing technology to other companies.
A designer by the name of Bel & Bel is taking advantage of this opportunity with its new Zero Scooter. While a prototype was initially introduced a few years back, it lacked the necessary technology to stand on its own. With Ninebot’s expertise in hand, this Segway-inspired scooter is ready to hit the streets this fall…
The Zero Scooter looks like Segway and Vespa released a collaboration project. It’s a perfect blend of the two. What you’re actually purchasing here is the conversion kit that transforms a NineBot base model into the scooter design. Bel & Bel allows you to purchase the add-on by itself or as an entire package.
Dubbed the “world’s first” self-balancing scooter, this Vespa and Segway love child has quite the look to it. There is no denying the iconic styling of the famous Italian motorbike brand is at play here. The smooth curves, single headlight and aluminum build all remind us of the popular two-wheeled vehicle. A clever metal kickstand sits on the front and is actuated by pressing the larger red button. From there, you just hop on and cruise around like a traditional Segway.
At launch in September, there will be four colors available for purchase: black, silver, red and blue. A three hour battery charge will provide around 20 miles of ride time. If you’re a city commuter or use this as a hobby to tinker with, that’ll be enough juice to get you around without constantly recharging. Additionally, it has Bluetooth connectivity so you can monitor all the necessary internals and track your usage. A display within the handles shows your battery life, mileage and other key information.
All this style isn’t going to come cheap. Bel & Bel is charging $6,500 for the kit and has not-yet released pricing on a full Ninebot setup. The design firm is set to begin shipping the scooter in September.
More New Toy of the Day:
- New Normal blends style & PowerBeats-like design for a new take on wireless earbuds
- This attractive Kickstarter timepiece blocks out your schedule on its watch face
- DJI’s Phantom 4 drone is coming later this month with a new obstacle avoidance system
- Raspberry Pi 3 hits with built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth after four long years
- Victronix teases its new Cyber Tool fitness tracker for the popular INOX watch
FTC: Electronicsforward is reader supported, we may earn income on affiliate links
Subscribe to the Electronicsforward YouTube Channel for all of the latest videos, reviews, and more!
