Segway Inc., an American manufacturer of two-wheeled personal transporters, has announced its new self-motorized and self-balancing e-Skates called Segway Drift W1.
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The new Segway Drift W1 e-Skates use the company’s proven, gyroscopic self-balancing technology, giving it an unparalleled tech advantage. The company notes that the Drift W1 is made with more than 800 patents. It allows each skate to feature just one wheel rather than the set of four found on traditional roller skates.
You just need to step on top of the e-Skates with each foot; there are no straps, so you just have to balance without any strap. Then you just lean to start moving. It seems logical that you can jump off if there’s a problem as you’re not strapped to it. But it could be a bit difficult and might take some time to get used to managing the two independent self-balancing skates.
While, Segway hasn’t released any specs, the company added some specs on its product page. They weigh about 7.7 pounds per wheel, which is pretty heavy for something you’ll be skating on. They’re also about 11.5 by 6 by 5 inches, so you may need a new bag as well.
The black and white Segway Drift W1 e-Skates are easy to carry, lightweight and small. The company said, “The tires are designed to improve stability and steering capabilities, and, thanks to its high-quality materials and two years of research and development, the product is designed for maximum comfort and fun. Consistent with Segway’s philosophy of safety first, these new e-Skates have also obtained a number of international certifications, such as UL and CE.”
Maximum speed is rated at roughly 7.5 mph and the battery at around 45 minutes depending on “riding” style and road conditions.
E-skates aren’t a totally new concept; various research and development has been going on in different places for at least 10 years.
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The company hasn’t released a price and release date, but Segway said it plans to show them off at a trade show at the end of August.
While this isn’t the first time a company has showed off its e-skates, it’s certainly the highest profile.
