Two new versions of Segway scooters launched

Two new versions of Segway scooters launched
NEW YORK: Segway Inc. has introduced revamped versions of its electric self-balancing scooter Monday, with several novel features, including a facility for the drivers to lean in the direction of where they want to go rather than using the handlebar and a wireless device to start the vehicle by remote control and to receive alerts when disturbed by aliens.

The company unveiled two new versions -- a city model with a 24-mile cruising radius and priced at $4,995 and a rugged, off-road version that has a 12-mile range and priced at $5,495. Both the models look sleeker and more futuristic in design than the earlier version. The earlier model has now been discontinued, but the company said it will provide maintenance support to the owners.

Though new in looks and features, the methodology of driving the scooter remains the same. The rider will have to stand on a platform connecting the two wheels and hold on to the handlebar that is fixed vertically to the base. But unlike in the original model, there are no equipment or wires on the handlebar.

An official of the company said the new models have a technology called LeanSteer, which enables the vehicle to be steered on the basis of the rider's intentions. A group of sensors located at the pivot point between the stem and the base reads the rider's body angle and a software directs the vehicle to the desired destination.

A wireless controller, or infoKey, with four buttons and an LCD screen can be used to turn the scooter on. It serves as a trip computer and has functions of an odometer, speedometer and battery gauge. It also incorporates an anti-theft alarm. Once the alarm is activated, the scooter gets itself locked and sends messages to the owner through the infoKey.

The Segway Personal Transporter was designed and developed by Dean Kamen in late 2001 and has become a popular city transport medium.