Hyundai unveils electric scooter prototype

Hyundai has taken the wraps off a new rear-driven mobility prototype for the future – an electric scooter.

The Korean car-maker has unveiled the prototype with the hope of cashing in on the bourgeoning ‘last mile mobility’ segment set to become a mainstream trend in the US, Europe and China.

The scooter prototype builds on a concept first presented by Hyundai at CES in 2017.

Weighing in at 7.7kg, it uses a lithium battery to offer a claimed 20km range and a top speed of 20km/h.

The key point of difference from the original CES version is that the newcomer switches drive from the front wheel to the rear wheel.

While rear-wheel drive vehicles go strictly against Hyundai’s current car blueprint, a front-driven motorcycle carries limitations. Many have tried and ultimately failed; in fact, not even two-wheel drive motorcycles have mounted a solid business case.

Instead, the Hyundai electric scooter prototype follows motorcycling convention, sending drive to the rear while also offering front and rear lights. A digital display projects the scooter’s battery charge and speed.

“The latest concept features in future Hyundai Motor Group plans to enable first- and last-mile mobility through integrating the scooter with future Hyundai and Kia vehicles,” a press release says. “When mounted on a vehicle, the scooter is charged automatically using electricity produced while driving, ensuring that the user can complete their journey seamlessly.

“The 2019 model’s shift from front-wheel drive to rear-wheel drive is key in enhancing safety and stability as it positions weight near the rear. Additionally, the group’s engineers have added suspension to the front wheel to provide a smoother ride, even on rough surfaces.”

DongJin Hyun, head of Hyundai Motor Group Robotics Team, said: “This is the world’s first vehicle-mounted personal scooter and could feature in future Hyundai Motor Group vehicles. We want to make our customers’ lives as easy and enjoyable as possible. Our personal electric scooter makes first- and last-mile commuting a joy, while helping to reduce congestion and emissions in city centres.”

The next phase of Hyundai’s concept is to develop a regenerative braking system to boost the scooter’s range another 10 per cent, or 2km.