In a time of rising inflation and fuel costs, Queensland families are saving money by turning to electric scooters, but it’s not the type of “scooter” that many think of.
Forget those annoying “stand up” scooters that fly down city footpaths.
Consumers are choosing electric “on road” scooters as they look to avoid fuel costs and do their part to help the environment.
More stylish and far cheaper than a Vespa, the zero-emission scooters only require a car licence in Queensland, can be charged from a normal power point, and go up to 50 kmph, the speed limit on many suburban roads.
Other models that require a motorbike licence can travel up to 85 kmph.
There is so much interest, a Brisbane company has created Australia’s first all-electric auto concept store, to meet the demand of all things electric.
EV Moto Brisbane, based in Capalaba, is the brainchild of Mark Beitz, managing director of Bartons Motor Group, who said people are changing the way they look at personal transport.
“While some are buying the on-road scooters for their first vehicle, many are using them as a second vehicle as they offer more mobility but cost nothing to run,” he explained.
“Because the new design scooters are modern and chic, with options from European style to – believe it or not – a hog, people want to be seen riding them.”
Mr Beitz revealed the on-road scooters’ average price is only around $5000 ‘on the road’, some a little less.
According to the Australian Automobile Association’s (AAA) Transport Affordability Index, national households pay more than $100 per week on fuel, while a recent survey by asset finance broker Savvy found that the majority of respondents spend between $61 and $120 on fuel per week.
“It’s not surprising that people are looking for transport alternatives that will save them money but still give them mobility,” Mr Beitz said.
On-road e-scooter facts:
Price – Approx $5000 on-road incl initial registration
Zero fuel cost
QLD registration cost – Average $350
Ongoing servicing – Approx $200 per year
Charging details – Any standard 240v house socket. Either take the Powerpack out to charge indoors, or charge directly from wall-to-socket.
Average distance before recharging – Approx 70 kms
