Who needs an electric car anyway?

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While governments plough millions into promoting the electric car, a new generation of vehicle manufacturer aims to shake up the EV market by upsetting the way we think of personal transport.

Unless you want to live in a city that places motorized traffic above all else, the car isn't working. There is little space to park, time lost in traffic, not to mention the pollution and danger caused. This problem will only get worse as populations increase. One possible solution is to integrate public transportation with personal light electric vehicles. In other words, if you currently use a car for short trips around town, you may be in the market for a battery-powered skateboard.

Boosted Boards looks indistinguishable from a conventional longboard, but nestling between their wheels are a battery and twin electric motors rated Boosted's industry­-leading battery technology is now available in two options. The standard battery, with 99 watt­-hours for 6­-7 miles of range, is fully certified for passenger airliner travel when portability is at a premium.

The extended battery, with 199Wh for 12­-14 miles of range is perfect for longer commutes and epic rides. Batteries are also now user replaceable, allowing you to swap packs in minutes.

With smooth braking, powerful electric motors, and simple wireless control, the latest Boosted board is an amazing riding experience gets an extended range battery pack, water-resistant electronics, and advanced connectivity.

Who will buy an electric skateboard?

There will be those who will scoff at the idea of an electric skateboard, but for many more the vehicles will be a revelation. While most people will use Boosted Boards as a fun recreational vehicle, commuters are likely to find them incredibly useful for what transport planners refer to as ‘the last mile’ – the distance between the railway station or bus stop and the journey’s end. The Boosted Board can be carried easily on any mode of public transport and stored without difficulty at the office or at home. And its range of 6 miles is more than enough for most commutes.

In terms of price, range and usability, lightweight vehicles like bicycles – and now skateboards – are the most practical option for those who want the benefits of an EV today. Electric vehicles of every description are currently in development, from aircraft to jet skis, but batteries remain expensive, heavy and troublesome to charge without widespread charging points.

Unlike cars, electric bicycles and skateboards are light enough to be carried into a house to be re-charged and if the battery runs flat, the rider can switch to leg power in an instant.

Can't ride a skateboard, but want to enjoy the benefits of a micro electric vehicle? The MovPak is an electric board that carries its battery in a rucksack, which not only provides a means of carrying it, but helps novices to balance, it is claimed.

MovPak is a back pack that doubles up as a personal electric vehicle capable of speeds up to 20 mph, and a range of 10 miles per charge.

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