Love them or hate them, electric scooters seem to be everywhere in 2022, with Brits both regularly resenting almost getting hit by one and realising the benefits that this quick and convenient mode of transport can provide, often simultaneously.
Today, we’re here to focus on the positives. Whether you’re looking for a way to get around town quickly and easily, or you’re looking for a fun and healthy form of exercise, an electric scooter is a perfect solution. With that in mind, if you’re wondering whether you should buy an e-scooter, here are six reasons why you should in the not too distant future.
The Legality Of E-Scooters In The UK
Firstly, a word on the legality of electric scooters in the UK. Whilst there has been something of a moral panic surrounding this environmentally friendly mode of transport recently (likely led by Big Petrol, let’s face it), e-scooters are actually legal to own in the UK.
There are, however, plenty of restrictions on just where they can be used; right now, you’re only allowed to ride them on your own private property or the private property of a landowner who has given you permission to do so.
Due to their relatively low carbon footprint and convenience, some local councils here in the UK are currently trialling their use on roads, testing the viability of electric scooters as a safe and effective mode of transport. Expect to see conclusions soon and, potentially, new laws introduced expanding where you can ride your e-scooter.
Anyway, how about those benefits?
Eco-Friendly
Of course, the biggest benefit that electric scooters offer is that they are much more environmentally friendly than many other popular modes of transport.
Electric scooters run on electricity, which means that, while they’re in use, they produce zero emissions. That said, it should be noted that they are pretty energy-intensive to manufacture, meaning it’s a good idea, environmentally, to invest in a high quality e-scooter to ensure durability and longevity in your purchase.
Easy Mobility
One of the biggest benefits that electric scooters provide is the fact that they are incredibly mobile. Perhaps you wanted to grab a quick cup of coffee or visit a friend close by, but traffic is getting in the way? An electric scooter makes it easy to get around town, navigating traffic and getting to your destination without the cumbersome concerns of having to park your car.
Affordable Transportation
Another reason why so many people are considering the possibility of buying an e-scooter is that they make for an affordable transportation option.
If you were to look at the price of an average car compared to an e-scooter, you would see a big price difference. The average cost of buying a new car in the UK is a whopping £38’585. For an e-scooter, that figure stands at around £500. That’s not to mention that as gas prices continue to rise, the appeal of an electrically powered vehicle rises in tandem.
Of course, e-scooters and cars provide very different things, but e-scooters even do well in terms of affordability when up against a traditional scooter, such as a Honda Wave or Vespa, which can cost well over a grand.
Exercise
One benefit that many don’t think of when thinking of electric scooters is that riding an electric scooter is a great way to get some exercise while having fun. Why? Because you won’t be able to ride it up steeper hills or roads, in which case you will need to pick it up and carry it a short distance, which represents a great little workout.
Fun
The next benefit goes without saying, and that is the fact that electric scooters are just plain fun to use! That feeling of the wind in your hair and sails, and a song of freedom in your heart (or, of course, on your headphones) whilst riding an e-scooter is pretty unparalleled.
Though we should note that, for the record, you shouldn’t be using your headphones while riding one! Safety first, and all that…
Convenient Storage
E-scooters are a great transport option in terms of their storage demands, or the lack of them, rather. When not in use, most electric scooters fold up for easy storage, allowing you to store them in your bedroom, living room, or under the stairs. You couldn’t say that for a car!
And speaking of storage, if you’re wondering where you might fit that new e-scooter of yours, check out these great storage solutions for small houses. We’ll see you on your privately owned path, putting your pedal to the metal. Or rather, your finger on the buttons.