One of the immutable rules of this world is that we have to work, and it usually entails commuting — day in and day out. We can’t change that fact, but we can change how we go about it. Like most people, you can opt for cars, or you can spice things up a bit, while also being eco-friendly, and go for e-scooters. Read on to see why e-scooters are the better choice and which model bests the rest.
Why is using electric scooters for commuting smart?
Did you know that a huge chunk of our daily drives are surprisingly short? 80% of our commutes are up to 10 miles long. For some reason, the idea that cars were our only option got palmed off on us. In many cases, they are indispensable, but not for urban commutes, especially when we have a whole range of possibilities like city transport, bikes, or electric scooters.
As cars continue to dominate our world — polluting the air, creating traffic nightmares, and draining our wallets — the world demands a shift. The next generation wants livable cities designed for people, not cars. That's why we strongly believe that electric scooters for commutes are the best thing since sliced bread.
The benefits of using e-scooters for commuting:
Bypass Traffic Congestion: Electric scooters let you zip past gridlocked streets, saving valuable time on your commute. Their agility allows you to take shortcuts and weave through traffic.
Eco-Friendly Transportation: Electric scooters have zero tailpipe emissions, making them a fantastic choice for reducing your carbon footprint and improving air quality in cities.
Cost-effective: Electric scooters are incredibly affordable compared to owning and maintaining a car. You save on gas, parking fees, and insurance with this budget-friendly option.
Door-to-Door Convenience: With an electric scooter, there's no need to walk to bus stops or train stations. Enjoy a seamless journey from start to finish.
Easy to Park and Store: Electric scooters, especially foldable ones, are compact and easy to store at home or the office. No more circling the block for parking spots.
Combine with Public Transport: For longer distances, electric scooters are the perfect "last mile" solution. Effortlessly ride to the train station or bus stop, then fold and bring your electric scooter with you.
Fun and Enjoyable: Feel the wind in your hair and the freedom of setting off whenever you feel like it.
What aspects are the most important for commuting models?
By taking these factors into account, you'll end up with an e-scooter that is not only a fun ride but a truly practical and reliable mode of transportation for your daily commute.
1.Battery (Range)
Your Commute Distance: Make sure the scooter's range comfortably surpasses your round-trip commute distance. Account for unexpected detours or errands.
Battery Capacity: Look for a model with a larger battery capacity (measured in watt-hours or Wh) for longer range. Consider how easily the battery can be swapped or recharged if needed.
An electric scooter battery usually lasts for 2-4 years and provides power for 3000-5000 miles. However, the battery life depends on how often you ride and how you store the scooter. Heavy use or improper storage will shorten its lifespan. More information on electric scooter batteries you can find here.
2.Brakes
Absolutely essential: City traffic requires quick and reliable stopping power. Opt for disc brakes, or at the very least, a combination of regenerative brakes and a drum/foot brake for added security.
Ride quality: Responsive and well-modulated brakes allow for precise control, which is vital in dense traffic.
3.Portability & Folding Mechanism
Situational Importance: If your commute includes public transportation or storing your electric scooter in tight spaces, portability is key.
Weight & Folded size: Consider how much weight you're willing to carry, and check the folded dimensions to ensure it fits where you need to store it.
Ease of folding: A quick and intuitive folding mechanism makes a massive difference for frequent transitions.
4. Longevity
Cost-efficiency: High-quality components and durable construction translate to a longer lifespan. This is especially important if you commute daily. Apollo scooters are designed to serve you for years with the same efficiency. Quality is our first, middle and last name!
Brand reputation & Warranty: Research brand reliability and check the warranty terms for peace of mind.
5.Other Important Considerations
Tires: Pneumatic tires offer better shock absorption and are ideal for bumpy city roads. Solid tires are puncture-proof but less comfortable.
Power: Adequate motor power helps tackle hills and enables quicker acceleration, which might be important depending on your city's terrain and traffic flow.
Lights & Visibility: Bright headlights, turn lights, the rear brake light, and reflective elements are essential for safety, especially at night or in low-light conditions.
The best e-scooters for commuting on the market
There are many available electric scooter models, but not all of them are suitable for daily commutes. Most electric scooters have either too much power or are simply too heavy, which impacts the battery capacity, which in turn affects the range. The best electric scooters for commuting are those that strike the happy medium between power, weight, and range.
Solar P1 3.0 ($1300)
Source: Solar Scooters USA
This powerful e-scooter features a dual-motor system for robust acceleration and hill-climbing ability. The spacious deck and optional seat configuration make it a comfortable choice for longer rides or commutes.
Gotrax GX2 ($1300)
Source: Gotrax
Gotrax GX2 emphasizes reliability and user-friendliness. Its sleek, contemporary styling and focus on intuitive features make it an easy-to-use option for everyday riding.
Segway GT1 ($1500)
Source: Segway-Ninebot
From a trusted brand in personal transportation, Segway GT1 is designed for performance enthusiasts. Its notable feature is the inclusion of self-healing tires, which offer increased puncture resistance and durability for worry-free rides.
EMOVE Cruiser S 52V ($1200)
Source: Voro Motors
EMOVE Cruiser S 52V is your go-to for durability and range. With a robust build and a battery that keeps you going for miles, it's perfect for those long commutes or adventurous weekends. Its water resistance and comfortable ride make it a reliable companion, rain or shine.
Unagi - The Model One ($1000)
Unagi Model One is a sleek, stylish, and lightweight electric scooter. Its one-click folding system makes it ideal for commuters who value convenience and style.
Apollo Scooters: The Commuter's Dream
Apollo scooters stand out as the best e-scooters for commuters, offering a hard-to-beat blend of performance, convenience, and reliability. Whether you're heading to work, running errands, or just exploring the city, Apollo has you covered with a scooter tailored to your urban needs.
Apollo Air ($1,099.00 on sale)
Apollo Air is a breath of fresh air your commute needs. Lightweight yet powerful, it offers a smooth ride with excellent handling, making it perfect for weaving through city streets. With Apollo Air, you're not just commuting; you're gliding through your city with ease and style.
Apollo Go ($1,599.00)
Meet Apollo Go, the scooter that's all about making commuting as easy and enjoyable as possible. Its reliable performance and comfort-focused design ensure you get to your destination feeling fresh and stress-free. The Go is your go-to for efficient and enjoyable urban travel.
Apollo City ($2,099.00 on sale)
Tips on how to commute safely
Stay Aware: Remember, e-scooters are less visible than cars. Don't assume drivers see you, and never assume you have the right of way. Anticipate the moves of other vehicles and ride defensively.
Scout Your Route: Your first trip is a learning experience! Go slow, and take note of potholes, bumps, intersections, and traffic patterns. Leave early to avoid feeling rushed.
Mind the Terrain: Small wheels don't like rough patches. Be extra cautious around potholes, uneven sidewalks, and loose debris.
Watch Out for Larger Vehicles: Trucks and buses have blind spots. When riding near them, slow down and be extra mindful of their movements.
Riding in the rain is not recommended: Reduced visibility for both you and other vehicles and potential loss of control on slippery roads make riding in the rain an unnecessary risk. If you really have to, make a short work of it and be extra careful.
Gear Up: Helmets are a must (full-face helmets offer better protection). Gloves, knee pads, and elbow pads add an extra layer of safety.
For more useful tips on how to stay safe while riding electric scooters, read: Electric Scooter Safety: The Ultimate Guide.
Laws & regulations
Before you take your electric scooter for a spin around town, make sure you know the local laws. It may appear trivial, but many strict rules concerning the use of e-scooters have been introduced in recent years across Canada. So, it's wise to familiarize yourself with them and follow them to the letter.
Although those regulations vary by state, here are some rules of thumb you should stick to:
- There are no one-size-fits-all rules: Each state (and even cities within a state) can make its own laws about e-scooters. You have to check the rules wherever you want to ride.
- You might need to be older: Many places will only let you ride an e-scooter if you're at least 16 years old.
- Don't go too fast: E-scooters usually have 15-25 kph speed limits, so you can't just zoom around as fast as you want.
- Helmets could be a must: Some places require helmets when riding, especially for younger riders.
- Know where to ride: You might not be allowed on sidewalks, or there might be special rules about where e-scooters can go.
Here's a comprehensive guide on Electric Scooter Laws 2024 in Canada: Everything you need to know
Wrapping up
Change your menial commutes into a fun experience with Apollo e-scooters. We guarantee you will find a new lease on life and save a few bucks while making the world a little bit better. Happy scooting!
