Electric scooters: is it worth buying one?

As with shared bikes, electric scooters are gaining more and more space and popularity in cities like São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Belo Horizonte and Porto Alegre.

The option of mobility fell in the taste of Brazilians for having an affordable price - it can be cheaper than public transport -, agility to escape traffic jams, possibility to leave anywhere (dock-free), in addition to reducing the number of vehicles on the street, generating a positive impact on the environment.

However, while there are benefits, cons are also present. The capital of São Paulo was the first city in the country to receive this means of transport; are already more 500 electric scooters circulating in São Paulo, consequently the number of accidents soared.

In view of this, the city hall regulated the service on 13/05/2019 and, from now on, the use of helmets becomes mandatory and walking on sidewalks and traveling on roads with speeds above 40 km/h is prohibited. where motor vehicles pass. The definitive regulation of electric scooters must come out in 90 days.

But it wasn't just here that the "Boom" scooters and measures needed to be taken to avoid an increase in accidents. New York banned circulation, London released it only for its own use, that is, without being shared, and Paris began to adopt strict rules.

But what about those who don't want to use the shared system? Worth to buy?

Why buy an electric scooter?

Anyone can buy electric scooters, without the need to have a document that authorizes the movement, such as the CNH (National Driver's License).

Before purchasing, it is worth analyzing some points and evaluating the pros and cons, taking into account your traffic limitations. Because it is battery-powered, electric scooters do not support long-distance travel, so it can be advantageous for those who want to go from work to college or from home to work, as long as it is close.

Some models are very compact, with the possibility of folding and being easily transported on public transport. In this way, you can vary using, for example, the subway to the city center and then the scooter to the location of the company.

Electric scooters can also be put to good use on weekends. City halls are increasingly investing in bicycle lanes, facilitating the circulation of this means of transport in urban centers, as well as in parks. Unlike the Bike, with electric scooters you won't run the risk of arriving sweaty at your appointments. That's because he hardly requires strength. To get around, just take the first push with your feet and accelerate on the handlebars.

Acquiring protective accessories becomes indispensable, especially helmet, knee and elbow pads. It may happen that the user falls out of the vehicle and has an accident. It is important to emphasize that, although there is investment in this mobility option in Brazil, the bike paths and the paving of roads are poorly maintained.

The safety of cities is another point to be taken into consideration, without adequate spaces to use a scooter, the driver is forced to walk with cars and motorcycles. In addition, there is a risk of theft, so leaving it anywhere is still not feasible.

How much do electric scooters cost

In Brazil there is already a multitude of electric scooters for both children and adults. The price varies depending on the model chosen. Among the cheapest, it is possible to find from R$ 700, but they can reach approximately R$ 5 thousand. LED panel, brake light, shock absorbers and digital display with speed, battery level and connection information Bluetooth are some of the items offered on more expensive models.

Before buying the scooter, check if the model you are interested in does not fit as mopeds, following the rules of the National Traffic Council (CONTRAN). If you belong to this category, you will have to have a driver's license and pay the other taxes.

The maximum speed, on average, is 20 km/h, including for sharing models. But it is feasible to find those with speed above. The main electric scooter move goes up to 30 km/h.

importway, inmotion, move and recently the Xiaomi, are among the leading brands of electric scooters.

Electric scooter rental

For you who do not like the idea of ​​buying, but are interested in enjoying the practicalities of electric scooters, renting can be a good option. Companies like Yellow, Grin, Uber Scooter e SCOO are already operating in Brazil.

Remember to be aware of the coverage areas, as a good part of these companies do not serve the entire region, causing the user to leave the scooter halfway to continue the journey. Be sure to analyze the prices practiced beforehand, thus avoiding surprises when finalizing the rental.

Stay tuned for the new circulation rules. After São Paulo, other cities should start working on regulation.

There is no doubt that this means of transport is here to stay, bringing practicality, agility and economy. So, evaluate each point well and make a comparison between renting and buying. If you choose the last option, research well which model to buy, considering the one that will best suit your needs.