Electric Mobility Innovation at CES 2019
Beyond cars, some of our favorite one- and two-wheel vehicles
At this year’s Consumer Electronics Show (CES), the attendees were hovering, around many major car brands’ electric vehicles and the numerous future-fantasy aircrafts on show. Audi and Mercedes-Benz unveiled theirs, while Nissan debuted a revision of an earlier debut, and Bell collaborated with Uber. But, some of the most practical innovations on exhibition this year plan to solve the mobility issues plaguing cities and drivers in closer quarters—with limited space or without the means for a car (or an aircraft). That means options like an electric motorcycle with sizable range or a handlebar-free ride to work that can charge desk-side. These are some of the most innovative and practical personal mobility products from CES 2019.
Coleen Electric-Assisted Bicycle
On the lowest level of the Sands Expo at CES, Eureka Park showcases the international exhibitors and the start-ups. In the French section, the electric-assisted Coleen bicycle stood out for its classic looks and its surprising lightness. The bike weighs just under 40 pounds and, when you purchase the Speed One model, it can get up to 45 km/h. The brand’s other two models come equipped with a 250-watt motor and can reach 25 km/h assisted top speed. Instead of working from the future back, as it seems a lot of brands do, Coleen took the best qualities of vintage bikes and worked forward to the future needs of commuters—resulting in a pared back and stylish version of similar options on the market.
Panasonic + Harley Davidson LiveWire Electric Motorcycle
Possibly against the wishes of their core consumer base, Harley Davidson is producing an electric motorcycle. In fact, it’s a Harley that sounds nothing like one. In partnership with Panasonic, the LiveWire will be available in August for around $30,000. That’s not cheap by any means, but the bike will boast 110 mile range, an LTE-connected dash system and an accompanying iOS and Android app.
Onewheel+ XR
Working to make sizable improvements to its previous models, Onewheel debuted its Onewheel+ XR this year. The new model is remote-free, offers a 12 to 18 mile range and can hit a top speed of 19 mph. The XR aims to be an evolution on the skateboard—its off-roading capabilities, its speed and the ability to go up hills are just a few of the reasons to choose this electric option over the traditional, four-wheeled board.
AppScooter by Etergo
“Range anxiety” is a common concern surrounding electric scooters. But, the AppScooter by Etergo has a range of 240 km—and it can get from zero to 45 km/h in 3.9 seconds. The scooter impresses on nearly all fronts. It has an uncharacteristically large storage space underneath the seat and there’s a beautiful dash command center with native navigation, messaging and music controls. It’s a thoughtfully designed scooter that stands to compete in the crowded market.
BMW’s Autonomous Motorcycle
Multi-tasking while being in control of a motorcycle is nearly inconceivable. It’s doubtful that the intention of BMW’s new autonomous motorcycle is to free up the commuter’s time on their daily ride, but having the option of turning it over to AI may make the motorcycle-hesitant or the road-trip riders a bit more likely to pick the bike over a car. The final production model will most likely offer the AI as an upper-tier, assistive feature rather than being fully autonomous.
Yamaha’s Redesigned TRITOWN Concept
Yamaha’s three-wheeled TRITOWN concept is catering to the final leg of people’s journeys. Designed to travel shorter distances with ease, the concept bends into turns like a bike, but it can stand on its own. It’s propelled electrically and is an option for consumers that aren’t sold on motorcycles or Segways—as this machine fits somewhere in the middle, and still looks like a hell of a lot of fun.
Segway-Ninebot miniPRO320
From its early days to becoming a tourist toy, the Segway has battled a turbulent market. But, with the debut of their miniPRO320, Segway hopes to reclaim a bit of glow once again. With newly added knee control pads, remote control capabilities and a range of about 14 miles, the new model is a surefire improvement upon the brand’s early iterations. Plus, anyone who felt wary about their balance will revel in the newfound stability the knee pads offer.
Images courtesy of respective brands
