Suitcase Scooter Takes To Streets

Well, hey there! Glad you could find time to drop in out of cyberspace for a coffee and a virtual treat. Hope you're on the move today...though perhaps not quite like Mr. He.

A man has adapted his suitcase to make it into an electric scooter - an invention he hopes will revolutionise personal transportation and luggage.

He Liangcai's three-wheeled suitcase scooter weighs 7kg (15lbs) and can reach a top speed of 20kph (12.4mph).

The battery lasts five to six hours and his invention can apparently travel up to 60km (37 miles) when fully charged.

The suitcase's handlebars control the throttle, brake and lights, and the machine is fitted with a GPS system.

Mr He, from China, has spent nearly 10 years and about £95,000 developing the idea and has taken the machine for a ride on the streets of Changsha City.

The farmer-turned-inventor is confident his patented suitcase scooter will be a hit with commuters.
He said: "I'm quite positive about this invention's future development. Why? First, it's easy to carry. Secondly, it will be sold at a low price.

"Thirdly, it will solve some problems that our country is facing, such as heavy traffic, parking problems, and finally, I think it won't cause any environmental pollution or noise pollution."

When the battery runs out, it is removed from the suitcase and placed into a charger which is plugged into an outlet.

He added: "The future prospects of this thing will be very good. This thing is really practical for people both travelling and working.

"It's both a piece of luggage as well as a tool for transportation. You can use it frequently when getting off work."

He plans to sell his invention on the market between £380 and £2,800 depending on the type of model.

Of course, here in Canada, Mr. He's invention might have to meet one or two Ministry of Transport regulations...road worthy...licensed, rear view mirrors, catalytic converter, pollution-free, etc...

Good idea though...

See ya, eh!

Bob