Electric scooters 2023

author: FutureCar Staff    

In most European cities, electric scooters are widely used and considered an important part of the transportation infrastructure. They are commonly seen sharing cycle lanes with bicycles, providing a convenient, affordable, and eco-friendly option for covering short distances during commutes. However, the use of privately owned e-scooters on public roads and pavements remains illegal in the UK, making them a subject of controversy. Despite this, e-scooters continue to be popular among individuals who are willing to take the risk of prosecution or who need to navigate private land such as camp sites, commercial properties, and race-track paddocks. There is hope that the law will change in the future, as the government has hinted at making a decision in 2024. As a result, we are currently testing e-scooters that comply with the existing legislation in other countries, as these models are most likely to be approved if the law changes. Such scooters have a top speed limit of 15.5mph and are equipped with front and rear lights.

Our testing process involved evaluating a wide range of electric scooters, focusing on models from established brands and dealers who offer warranties and parts support. The scooters were tested by two riders, one weighing 80kg and the other 95kg, on a private estate. The route included a four percent incline to assess the motor's performance during uphill climbs and the brakes' effectiveness during downhill descents. We also considered the scooters' ease of folding and carrying, as well as their resistance to adverse weather conditions, which is particularly important in the UK.

Review: Pure Advance 7

Price: Around £800
Rating: 5 stars
Available from: pureelectric.com
Power: 500W
Scooter weight: 16.2kg
Range (claimed): 24.8 miles

Pure Electric's Advance scooter stands out from the crowd with its unique design, departing from the conventional style commonly seen in e-scooters. The scooter features fold-down footplates on either side of a frame, providing a more natural and comfortable riding position. With self-centring steering and wide handlebars that can be quickly folded for easy transportation, the scooter offers enhanced stability. It also includes scrolling indicators and other lights to improve visibility. The 500W motor, with a peak 710W boost, effortlessly conquered our hill test, although we would have preferred stronger brakes for downhill descents.

Review: Pure Air Pro 7

Price: Around £500
Rating: 4.5 stars
Available from: pureelectric.com
Power: 500W
Scooter weight: 16.9kg
Range (claimed): 24.8 miles

The Pure Air Pro 7, another offering from Pure Electric, demonstrates the company's ability to create e-scooters perfectly suited for everyday use in the UK. While the Air Pro has a more conventional design compared to the Advance, it boasts the same motor, similar range, and weight, all at a more affordable price point, being £300 cheaper. The scooter offers decent weatherproofing, a sturdy frame, and larger wheels that provide a solid feel on the road. It also features a large Bluetooth app for controlling the scooter's features and monitoring the battery charge. However, it is worth noting that the Pro model is not as compact or easy to carry when folded compared to its competitors.

Review: Indi EX-2 7

Price: Around £360
Rating: 4 stars
Available from: halfords.com
Power: 350W
Scooter weight: 14.2kg
Range (claimed): 18 miles

For those who require a shorter range and are willing to make some sacrifices in terms of features, the Indi EX-2 offers great value. Its smaller size makes it easier to carry, and the skateboard-like footplate adds a unique touch. Despite having a less powerful motor compared to most rivals, the Indi EX-2 performed impressively well on our hill test, especially with the lighter rider. However, the scooter's smaller wheels and frame result in a more nervous feel on rough surfaces, and some components may not withstand everyday use as effectively.

Review: Ducati Pro-III 7

Price: Around £800
Rating: 3.5 stars
Available from: moovelectric.co.uk
Power: 350W
Scooter weight: 17.5kg
Range (claimed): 31 miles

Despite being a product from a sports-motorcycle company, the Ducati Pro-III surprises with its sensible features, most notably its impressive claimed range of 31 miles. This is achieved through a larger battery compared to its competitors. The scooter also includes other thoughtful touches, such as an RFID pass key for unlocking and a large display. It offers a smooth ride, particularly on well-maintained roads, and the twin disc brakes, operated by levers on the handlebars, inspire confidence. However, the Pro-III is a heavy scooter and may struggle to provide sufficient power for heavier riders on slopes. Additionally, its relatively higher price may be a drawback for some.

FutureCar Staff