A monumental revelation has taken place on the Gare du Nord practice station in Paris, capturing the eye of 1000’s of passers-by with a panoramic 3D set up. Accenture Song and PEUGEOT orchestrate a spectacular launch for the brand new PEUGEOT E-5008, with the marketing campaign #SomethingBigIsComing, underneath the banner of innovation and boldness.
An inventive set up that redefines the city expertise. The Gare du Nord practice station in Paris has been reworked right into a futuristic stage the place a mysterious 3D field has appeared, projecting majestic creatures, heralding this vital new improvement for PEUGEOT. The visible show is the work of the inventive studio Superbien, a pioneer within the multimedia artwork area, merging cutting-edge expertise and visible poetry.
The true nature of the 3D projections at Gare du Nord station is revealed, within the type of the brand new all-electric PEUGEOT E-5008. Something large has arrived. With options such because the Panoramic i-Cockpit®, embedded ChatGPT, a formidable electrical vary of 410 miles((WLTP cycle awaiting approval), and 7 spacious seats for class-above onboard area, the brand new E-5008 is able to redefine the requirements of electrical household autos.
The expertise would not cease on the Gare du Nord station. A dynamic and interactive digital marketing campaign has been deployed on social media, with 3D movies and fascinating activations getting ready the general public for this revelation. The 3D projection impact has been tailored to digital codecs for consistency and larger impression.
In addition, the marketing campaign advantages from a presence in DOOH (Digital Out-of-Home) throughout main European capitals, making certain international visibility.
This marketing campaign marks the start of a collection of initiatives between Accenture Song and PEUGEOT, following the partnership announcement in 2023. More campaigns will observe very quickly.
I hop off the prepare at Byfleet & New Haw, about half a mile north of the diversion route, and head for the A245, anticipating it to be reworked into a parking lot. Cut down the alley, head down the trail in the direction of the roundabout and… Oh. Everything is okay.
Byfleet isn’t a dystopian future imaginative and prescient of a cyberpunk future the place public transport is banned and individuals are compelled to drive all over the place, choking the streets with hundreds of sorts of visitors – it’s only a small city with a highway that hardly qualifies as busy going by the center of it. Sure, there are extra lorries than regular, however the highway itself is flowing alongside like it will on every other Saturday morning.
The diversion route crosses over an eerily abandoned M25 – eight lanes of silence. A good few locals have cycled up right here to check out the empty expressway, they usually share my disbelief that it’s attainable for the diversion path to be so quiet – particularly as any M25 points have a tendency to finish up clogging their native roads.
Further alongside, West Byfleet excessive road – a traffic-light managed crossroads that was anticipated to be an enormous bottleneck – can also be flowing simply as easily because it usually would. I communicate to some store house owners, who’re simply as shocked about the entire thing as I’m.
“I cancelled all of our appointments for today, but I needn’t have bothered,” says Ian Barnes, who runs Surrounds Art on the excessive road. “I drove in super early at 6am expecting pandemonium, but it’s been even quieter than it normally is – I think that’s because it’s been advertised so well and so far in advance.”
Electrification of motorcycles,whether we like it or not, is becoming a freight train that cannot be stopped. Though not as mainstream as their car counterparts, electric bikes are gaining footing in the market with heavyweights like Harley-Davidson and Kawasaki introducing new models. They’re well-designed, with top of the line components and have next generation battery specs. Companies that are startups, comparatively speaking, like Zero, Energica and Damon are focusing on bringing costs down, while at the same time making sure that the battery technology is progressing forward.
But despite all that progress, it may be a long time before full-size motorcycles replace gas powered ones as the main choice for touring, adventure riding and track riding. However, there may be a perfect electric alternative for commuting, going to get groceries or heading to class in a city environment. And with battery technology so prevalent these days, any company with a vision and a bit of cash can build themselves a capable electric moped or scooter. While there are many more of these little scooter startups, BMW, Honda and Vespa haven’t been sleeping on this market either.
Pulling data directly from manufacturers like BMW, Piaggio, Honda and many others, we’ve put together a list of the best electric scooters for commuting in a city.
We’ll start with the least practical option, though probably one of the more exciting ones. Built on the legacy of the original 1980’s Motocompo version, this new Motocompacto will be an interesting product to follow. Priced under $1,000 and available at the end of 2023, the Motocompacto is made for short runs in a busy city. Whether you bring it with you in your car to use throughout the day while your car is parked or run around the school campus between classes, this little scoot will be a breeze to collapse into itself and stow away until it is needed again. There’s no storage to speak of, max speed is appropriate for its tiny wheels and the range is a mere 12 miles, but for such a tiny package, it may be the one option that is the most fun for your average person with no interest or experience with motorcycles or scooters.
Building on their previous effort of the CE 04, BMW perhaps realized that maybe it wasn’t the coolest kid on the block, despite that mode’s futuristic looks. That’s why its newest offering is the Grom-killing CE 02. Handsomely styled for urban riding, this electric scooter comes with some great features. It has two riding modes, SURF and FLOW, a reverse gear, phone connectivity, front wheel ABS, keyless start, a small TFT screen and a USB-C charging socket. BMW is also offering some key optional features like a third ride mode called FLASH, heated grips, external quick charger and additional color schemes. On top of that, there are some optional accessories to personalize the CE 02 with. You can outfit it with a more comfortable seat, a top case and side bags, a cockpit fairing and additional footrest options. All that adds up to be one of the cooler and practical options for city dwellers on the move.
Model Specifications
Motor
Externally excited air-cooled synchronous motor
Battery
48 V
Range
Not Specified
Charge Time
1:40 hrs for 20-80% (quick charge), 2:40 hrs for 20-80% (standard charge)
A California company by the name of Aventura X has been producing a “Vespa-styled” electric scooter for a hot minute now. Though Vespa does manufacturer an electric scooter of their own (more on that later), those looking for a vintage look, with modern technology underneath to use during their commute may not find a cheaper alternative. Coming in several attractive colors, some of which fully embrace the playful retro nature of the bike, the Aventura X Electric is as basic as they come. Despite the lack of any serious technology, which is perhaps fitting given its style, the scooter does have a range of 35-70 miles, making it the ideal method of transportation to work, café and other city destinations. And with accessories that include windshields, front racks and even a woven basket, anyone can outfit this ride to suit their personal tastes.
Model Specifications
Motor
2900W Brushless DC Motor
Battery
72V20AH Lithium Ion (removable battery)
Range
35/70 miles
Charge Time
2 hours with the fast charger(add on), 5-6 hours with the regular charger(included)
Top Speed
30 mph
Source: Aventura
7Zoom Electric Scooter
Starting MSRP: $2,699
Zoom
Zoom is another one of those small companies that only does one thing, but does it well. Though the scooters themselves are very similar to those made by Aventura, these are slightly more modern looking, have entirely different color schemes and are a bit cheaper if you can catch them on sale. There is plenty of storage under the seat as well as an optional top box. USB phone charger, cup holder and bag hook come standard. And there’s even an anti-theft alarm with motor immobilizer included with the scooter.
Model Specifications
Motor
1500W Brushless Hub
Battery
72V
Range
60 miles
Charge Time
3-6 hrs
Top Speed
30 mph
Source: Zoom
6Vespa Elettrica
Starting MSRP: $7,999
Vespa
Much like everyone thinking all cruisers are Harleys, most people tend to think of Vespa when they encounter a retro looking scooter. They are the epitome of Italian vibes, mod culture and running around European cities while looking dashing and cool. Vespa knows this. We know this. Vespa knows that we know that it knows this. But it doesn’t mean the Italian company is stuck in its old ways. And the Elettrica is its long term future strategy. With features like the multimedia system (MIA) that connects the scooter’s 4.3-inch TFT display with the rider’s phone, phone calls could be answered, messages replied to and songs skipped into perpetuity. Above all, however, it is the calming knowledge that this scooter was built by a company that’s been doing it for decades, that raises it above many of its imitators.
Model Specifications
Motor
3.5 kW (4 kW peak) electric Piaggio brushless motor with KERS (Kinetic Energy Recovery System)
Battery
Piaggio 4.2-kWh lithium battery, LG Chem cells, built-in battery charger, 48 V 86 Ah
Range
62 miles
Charge Time
4 hrs
Top Speed
45 mph
Source: Vespa
5GIO Italia Ultra
Starting MSRP: $1,899
GIO
The Italia Ultra is a cheap yet funky bit of scooting business. It is made by a Canadian company called Gio, which has been in the powersport business for over twenty years. Made to resemble, but not outright steal the design of a Vespa, this little champ costs less than $2,000, which is a fraction of the Italian real deal price. It’s also quite cheaper than the rest of its small company competitors, which is one of the reasons for its high placement on this list. And when you consider its main specifications, the rest of the reasons fall into place as well. Yes, it has an alarm, a USB port, an LCD screen and a rear storage compartment. What else do you need for your 15 minute trip to work and back?
Model Specifications
Motor
Permanent Magnetic 800w LSM
Battery
60V20AH Lead Acid
Range
44 miles
Charge Time
5- 6 hrs
Top Speed
31 mph
Source: GIO
4Aventura-X Electric Sidecar Scooter
Starting MSRP: $7,495
Aventura
Despite the fact that most motorcycle riders don’t like trikes, or three-wheel bikes, sidecars have always remained on the cool side. Their rugged capabilities, pet-friendly seating and decades long history have somehow made them immune to biker scorn. Perhaps capitalizing on all of that goodwill, Aventura introduced the world to their X Electric Sidecar scooter. Built on the same concept as the standard X Electric, this version of the bike gives scooter lovers the same joy that an Ural would give to a motorcycle rider. It doesn’t hurt that the sidecar would be handy in a city commute if the need arises to deliver something, or someone, from one place to another. Whether it’s your pet, a bag of groceries or a friend in need, the Aventura X Electric Sidecar is there to be your urban mule.
Model Specifications
Motor
2000W Brushless DC Motor
Battery
72V20AH Lithium Ion (removable battery)
Range
25/50 miles
Charge Time
2 hours with the fast charger(add on) , 5-6 hours with the regular charger(included)
Top Speed
30 mph
Source: Aventura
3Piaggio 1 Active
Starting MSRP: $4,799
Piaggio
There’s nothing like getting a product that was well-thought-out, manufactured using modern processes and designed to look great. Piaggio, the parent company of Vespa, did just that with the 1 Active. Somewhere between modern and retro, this electric scooter looks like it means serious business. With a large under-seat storage compartment, big enough to fit a helmet, comfortable ergonomics, on the road charging via a KERS system and a 5.5-inch color LCD display, 1 Active is one of the best, well-rounded electric scooter options for navigating a busy city.
Model Specifications
Motor
2.0 kW (3.0 kW peak)
Battery
2.3 kWh
Range
85 @ Eco mode*, 66 @ WMTC
Charge Time
6 hrs
Top Speed
38 mph
Source: Piaggio
2SEAT MÓ 125 Performance
Starting MSRP: TBD
Seat
SEAT is pushing for a premium electric scooter experience. While other manufacturers scramble through their part bins to coble together a respectable scooter, SEAT is including premium equipment as standard. The brakes are from Galfer. The seat is made by SHAD. The suspension is from Öhlins. There are 3 riding modes plus a reverse gear. And the SEAT MÓ app allows the rider to seamlessly connect with the scooter. But the biggest ace up its sleeve is the removable battery. Pull it out in your high rise office parking lot, roll it with you and plug it in at your desk. Or get multiple batteries and always have one charged and ready to go. No word on how much it would cost, as it is to be released in 2024.
Model Specifications
Motor
Brushless hub motor
Battery
5.6kWh lithium-ion battery
Range
83 miles
Charge Time
6 – 8 hrs
Top Speed
65 mph
Source: SEAT
1BMW CE 04
Starting MSRP: $12,195
BMW
There’s a lot to be admired about a company that is willing to take risks. Some risks don’t really pay off, as was the case with Yamaha’s Niken. But others seem to work out well. BMW’s electric scooter, the CE 04 seems to be doing alright as its entering its fourth year on the market. It’s a pricey vehicle, especially so for a scooter with a sibling that’s half the price (CE 02). But BMW has made an exceptional bike, with a great ride quality, premium components and excellent features like a 10.25-inch TFT display, three ride modes, ABS, reverse gear, ventilated storage compartment with USB-C socket, side loading compartments, ECall emergency calling and a slew of optional equipment and accessories.
Model Specifications
Motor
Permanent-magnet liquid-cooled synchronous motor
Battery
Traction storage with high-voltage technology integrated into the vehicle underbody, 8.9/8.5kWh (gross/net) (8.9/6.2 kWh, 11 kW with optional power reduction)
Range
80 miles
Charge Time
4h:20min for 0-100% and approx. 3h:30min for 0-80% @ 10A / 230V / 2.3 kW, with quick charger 1h:40min for 0-100% and approx. 1h:05min for 0-80% @ 30A / 230V / 6.9 kW
Toyota is giving us a glimpse of a new sports car that will be showcased at the upcoming Japan Mobility Show. The teasers reveal a futuristic-looking coupe, which is quite different from the currently available GR86 or Supra models. It seems to be an evolved version of the Sports EV concept. The new car shares a similar shape and features an orange body with a black roof, suggesting that it may be closer to a production-ready model.
Named “FT-Se,” this electric sports coupe prominently displays Gazoo Racing badges both inside and outside. In fact, the Toyota logo is absent from the rear, replaced by a black and red “GR” badge with a white font. This new badge is also visible on the steering wheel and front fender.
The exact meaning of “FT-Se” has not been revealed by Toyota. However, based on previous models, “FT” denotes “Future Toyota.” For instance, the 2014 FT-1 concept eventually became the Supra in 2020. Presumably, the “S” in FT-Se stands for “sport” and the “e” signifies electric.
This electric sports car not only has zero-emission capabilities and a futuristic exterior design but also features a brand-new interior concept that is unrelated to the GR86 and Supra models. The digital instrument cluster is positioned above the steering wheel, flanked by an infotainment screen on the right and another screen on the left. Toyota claims that the concept includes new kneepads to protect the driver’s body from G-forces during aggressive driving.
While it’s still uncertain if Toyota has plans to put this concept into production, there is hope considering company chairman Akio Toyoda’s recent suggestion to revive the Celica. Additionally, rumors of a new MR2 model continue to circulate.
More details about the Toyota FT-Se concept will be revealed on October 25 or 26 during the press days of the 2023 Japan Mobility Show.
In a shocking incident in Iberia Parish, Louisiana, a BNSF train crashed into a semi-truck that was stuck on the railroad tracks, causing a derailment. Videos of the incident were captured and show the dramatic scene. Cleanup operations are still ongoing a day after the crash.
The collision occurred at around 5:00 PM local time on August 21, 2023, at the intersection of LA Highway 182 and Airport Boulevard. As a result, the police had to close off the area and redirect traffic. Initially, the authorities evacuated the surrounding area for safety reasons, but people were allowed back after two hours.
The video above combines two separate clips. The first clip starts just as the train is about to hit the semi-truck, followed by a massive cloud of smoke that obscures the area. The second clip provides a better view of the vehicle stuck on the railroad crossing and the ensuing collision.
Motor1.com reached out to BNSF for a statement regarding the incident. According to a spokesperson from the railway company, “At approximately 5 PM CST on Monday, a train struck a semi-truck that was occupying the Airport Boulevard crossing in New Iberia, Louisiana. This resulted in the derailment of 20 railcars and two locomotives, which were carrying mixed freight including plastic pellets. Fortunately, no injuries were reported among the crew, and no hazardous materials were compromised. The cause of the incident is currently under investigation. Highway 182 is closed in both directions from the Iberia Parish line to Darby Lane while BNSF personnel work alongside local law enforcement to clear the incident.”
In addition to the plastic pellets, the train was also transporting acrylic acid. “That commodity was not compromised,” confirmed a BNSF spokesperson to Motor1.com.
A separate statement on BNSF’s website indicates that the estimated time for reopening the main track is Wednesday, August 23, 2023, at 4:00 AM.
According to The Daily Iberian, a local newspaper, the semi-truck driver managed to escape the vehicle before the crash. While some debris struck a white van, fortunately, no one inside the van was injured.
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