Origin of the Electric Scooter: Who is the inventor?

The electric scooter has become an essential part of modern urban mobility. This means of transport has many advantages for everyday travel but can also be used for walking with friends or family. Although very popular, its origins remain unknown to the general public. It is therefore interesting to ask ourselves who is the inventor of the electric scooter, how it was popularized and what its technological developments were. The electric scooters of the 2010s are very different from the cutting-edge models on the market today. In this article, Weebot presents the history of the electric scooter.

Invention of the electric scooter

It is quite difficult to attribute the invention of the electric scooter. However, Ogden Bolton Jr is known for having invented the first motorized scooter in history in 1895. He is therefore often considered the inventor of the electric scooter although his prototype is equipped with a thermal engine. Ogden Bolton Jr. has developed a personal transportation vehicle on a base resembling a bicycle and equipped with a central platform, like on current electric scooters.

His prototype was seen as a technological revolution when it was presented and Ogden Bolton Jr. therefore filed numerous patents.

Of course, the prototype developed by Ogden Bolton Jr. has nothing to do with the electric scooters we know today. These are the result of the work of certain companies that have focused their efforts on research and development for years. Notably, there are companies like Xiaomi, Segway and Razor, which have contributed to the development of the first electric scooters for the general public.

Technological developments in electric scooters

As explained above in the article, electric scooters have undergone major technological developments since the start of their marketing in the 2010s.

One of the major innovations in electric scooters since their invention is the improvement of batteries. In fact, the first ones allowed a range of around 10 to 15 km, which is very little for long journeys. The entry-level models available today offer around 40 km of autonomy. Some high-end models can have a range of up to 200 km.

The same thing applies to engines. In fact, the first models were equipped with small engines which did not deliver sufficient power for dynamic driving. Now, many models are equipped with very powerful dual motors to provide optimal driving performance.

We could cite many additional technological developments as the market for electric scooters continues to develop. To summarize, we also find innovations in terms of waterproofness indices, safety standards, efficient braking systems and also connectivity and driving comfort.

What are the future technological innovations on electric scooters?

Electric scooters are becoming real competitors of cars in terms of safety and technology.
We already find assistance similar to cars on scooters but these must still be improved in the years to come. Here are the technological developments that we can expect on electric scooters in the years to come:

Super fast charging
Advanced sensors
Driving assistance systems
Use of more durable and solid materials
Improved anti-theft system
Regenerative energy
Predictive maintenance

All of these innovations would allow electric scooters to compete even more with other means of transportation. This would offer electric scooter users an improved riding experience and many benefits in terms of time saving, cost reduction and optimal safety.

FAQ

How old to ride an electric scooter?

The age for riding an electric scooter is 14 years old. Initially, the law provided for the age of 12 to ride an electric scooter but this has changed for safety reasons. To find out more, see our article: Safety tips for children's electric scooters

What is the law on electric scooters?

The highway code regulates the practice of electric scooters. As this means of transport is booming, the law is regularly updated to guarantee everyone's safety but also to improve the driving experience of electric scooter users. It is therefore important to consult updates to the law on EDPM.

Are electric scooters waterproof?

In general, it is not recommended to use your electric scooter in the rain because they are not waterproof. However, there is a wide range of water resistant electric scooters which will allow you to ride in light rain without fear of damaging your battery.