While cargo scooters may not be as well-known as other forms of electric transportation, they occupy a unique space by catering to individuals seeking a balance between the storage capacity of traditional e-bikes or e-scooters and the practicality of larger cargo-focused designs. While a shortage of cargo scooters has been an issue in the past, it’s possible that this scarcity may be alleviating in the near future, thanks to some exciting new designs recently introduced on the market, including the just-revealed Lightfoot cargo electric scooter, which is generating significant buzz.
Unlike some competing cargo scooters, the Lightfoot stands out with a unique advantage: its integrated photovoltaic panels enable perpetual charging through direct sunlight.
While not the primary solar-powered scooter we’ve encountered, this model undoubtedly stands out as one of the most striking.
The Lightfoot electrical cargo scooter, developed by Otherlab, features two 120W photovoltaic panels, discreetly integrated into its design to conceal a substantial 45.2-litre (12-gallon) storage compartment. The innovative design features a single hinged panel that effortlessly swings open, granting you unobstructed access to the entire rear cargo area for seamless loading and unloading, before securely latching back into position for worry-free transportation.
Seamlessly integrated behind the sleek panels are the substantial UL-certified 1.1 kWh battery and the powerful 600W onboard charger, ensuring a rapid charge via the grid when needed, providing an alternative to the solar panel-generated energy. According to the corporation, achieving an 80% reduction in costs can be accomplished within just 90 minutes using a standard 110V wall outlet. Based on the corporation’s data, solar charging appears to replenish the battery at an estimated rate of around 7-8% per hour, translating to approximately 3 miles or 5 kilometers of additional range per hour of solar exposure. While heavy utility customers may still occasionally rely on the wall socket, there’s no inherent issue with off-street parking enhancing range.
The corporation estimates that a single scooter’s range varies by up to 37 miles (60 km) per charge, with potential daily extensions of approximately 18 miles (30 km) via solar panel recharging.
When utilised for moderate commuting distances, the scooter can potentially operate solely on solar power, pedestrians typically average lower than 3 miles (4.8 km) per day.
Consider storing it in your driveway if you only need it for occasional short trips throughout the day, ensuring it’s always ready when you require it. For many riders, this marks a goodbye to the hassle of plugging in their vehicles altogether.
At a claimed top speed of 20 miles per hour (32 kilometers per hour), the scooter allegedly enjoys “bike lane authorization” without necessitating additional licensing or registration requirements.
The Lightfoot design can be optimized for ease of maintenance by minimizing the number of mechanical components required. The twin motor system relies on hub motors as a viable alternative to centrally mounted motors, thereby eliminating the need for chains or belts. Between these two high-powered motors, one with a rating of 750 Watts (peak power: 1 kilowatt), the scooter should be able to accelerate quickly while delivering approximately 2,000 Watts of power as it takes off and lays down speed.
The corporation offers a comprehensive 12-month warranty on your entire scooter, along with an extended 24-month guarantee for the core components comprising the frame, motors, controllers, brakes, lights, and suspension systems. The scooter is backed by a comprehensive buy-back guarantee, under which the company commits to repurchasing the vehicle from any dissatisfied rider, regardless of reason.
Starting deliveries in January 2025, the Lightfoot is now available for purchase with a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $4,995.
Electrek’s Take
I’m utterly distraught at this moment. While my internal teams may have varying perspectives, I believe that effectively promoting this feature to a wider audience is crucial for its success. Two of my most proficient areas have usually lain in the realm of combat; yet, this project harmonizes a peak engineer’s enthusiasm with an ultra-rare design sensibility.
I’m certain that I would thoroughly enjoy this aspect. I would experience it everywhere without hesitation about its appearance. Given my affinity for technology and innovation, I may not be the go-to expert for traditional scooter buyers seeking straightforward advice. I genuinely hope that the Lightfoot will be able to transcend any limitations and garner a broader appeal than my initial concerns would suggest.
Rather than relying on simplistic platitudes like “Actually, That’s Not the Most Efficient Way to Do It…”, I firmly believe that such critiques lack a profound understanding of the task at hand. While the intention is not to optimize each photon, it’s more about not squandering the abundant daylight that would otherwise simply bake the paint on every available scooter and moped out there – and I’m not even getting started on “moped” linguistic pedants. Why settle for limited solar power when you can harness the sun’s energy to its fullest potential?
I’m unsure what you’re referring to, but here’s a rewritten version of your statement: So, it seems that I have a fondness for this particular characteristic. I’m taken aback by how many people will enjoy it just as much as I do.
