You can now transform your Segway into a steerable go-kart.
Ninebot, the parent company of Segway, is expected to roll out a kit that attaches to its hoverboard model, the miniPro, according to Abacus News, which spotted the report on Chinese news site Weibo.
The kit retrofits seats, a steering wheel and a front bumper, as well as rear and front wheels onto the Segway.
You can now transform your Segway into a steerable go-kart. Ninebot, the parent company of Segway, is expected to roll out a kit that attaches to its hoverboard model, the miniPro
The miniPro is a miniature version of the original, upright Segway, that’s similar to a hoverboard, but adds a padded steering stick in the middle of the device to allow for easier maneuvering.
Segway first revealed the miniPro in 2016, but now appears to opening it up for new modes of transportation.
Promotional images of the go-kart show a father and son riding side by side, suggesting that the steering wheel and seat can be adjusted based on the rider’s needs.
The go-kart will also be equipped with electric brakes and run-flat tires, Abacus News noted.
It’s unclear when Segway plans on releasing the product or what it will cost, but Abacus speculated that it could be launched July 24, citing unnamed reports.
There’s no information on whether it will cost more than the miniPro, which is priced at $1,000.
The kit retrofits seats, a steering wheel and a front bumper, as well as rear and front wheels onto the Segway. Both the seat and the wheel can be adjusted based on the rider’s needs
Segway has yet to comment on the product, beyond sharing some promotional images on its Weibo site. It remains unclear when it will be released or how much the go-kart will cost
Segway has yet to comment on the product, beyond sharing some promotional images on its Weibo site.
It comes about a month after Segway released a pair of self-balancing e-skates.
In June, Segway unveiled the Drift W1, a pair of e-skates that uses the same balancing technology used in the firm’s original devices.
Segway plans to formally reveal the new product during the IFA 2018 tech show in Berlin on August 30.
For now, the company has posted a lifestyle page on its site along with a video of the skates in action.
The miniPro (pictured) is a miniature version of the original, upright Segway, that’s similar to a hoverboard, but adds a padded steering stick in the middle of the device
WHAT IS THE SEGWAY MINIPRO?
Segway in 2016 unveiled the second generation version of its popular upright scooter, which first launched in 2002.
The miniPro adds a steering stick — a vertical padded bar in the middle of the board.
Pushing one way or the other with the inside of your legs turns the board. If you’re a skier, it’s like carving around a mogul.
Segway says the miniPro’s stick makes its board more of a ‘personal transporter’ similar to its classic upright, handlebar-equipped Segway
Leaning forward causes you to accelerate; leaning back slows you down or starts a backward roll.
Gyroscopes and electronics keep the board upright.
Getting on isn’t any more difficult than jumping on a skateboard.
Segway says the stick makes its board more of a ‘personal transporter’ similar to its classic upright, handlebar-equipped Segway.
‘The tires are designed to improve stability and steering capabilities, and, combined with the high-quality materials including slip-resistance on foot mats, the product is designed for maximum comfort and fun,’ Segway wrote.
Prices are not yet known for the upcoming product, but the similar HoverShoes XI from InMotion retail at $499.
In January, Segway unveiled its adorable Loomo robot and the autonomous delivery version, Loomo Go, which appears a cross between a rideable hoverboard and a friendly robotic companion.
In June, Segway unveiled the Drift W1, a pair of e-skates that uses the same balancing technology used in the firm’s original devices. The product will be formally launched in August
Loomo is designed to be both a ‘mini personal transporter’ and an ‘intelligent robot.’
It uses Intel’s Realsense camera, giving it the power of depth-sensing, facial recognition, and person tracking.
And, with a self-balancing hoverboard-style base, you can even ride it.