Autoblog

Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Voi scooter taxi offers options for commuters in mega cites]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/23/voi-scooter-taxi-offers-options-for-commuters-in-mega-cites/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/23/voi-scooter-taxi-offers-options-for-commuters-in-mega-cites/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/23/voi-scooter-taxi-offers-options-for-commuters-in-mega-cites/#commentsFiled under: Concept Cars, Videos, Misc. Auto Shows, Motorcycle, Electric

TUM Create, a section of the Technical University of Munich, Germany, that has more than 100 technical types working on future solutions to mobility, worked with Singapore's Nanyang Technical University to come up with the Voi multipurpose electric scooter. The Voi - from the Vietnamese word for elephant - puts a rider behind an enclosed passenger cell that keeps proceedings narrow and can keep one of the occupants dry.

What's more, that front cell can be swapped for other modules like an open seat, a cargo box or a mobile kitchen. With the aim of being as convenient and affordable as a scooter and as comfortable as a car, the Voi can get up to 45 kilometers per hour (28 miles per hour) and has an 80 kilometer range (50 miles). A video explaining the project can be found below.

Revealed at the Taiwan International Electric Vehicle Show (EV Taiwan) this month, you can watch it being built and taken for a spin in the video below, and check out the press release below that.

Continue reading Voi scooter taxi offers options for commuters in mega cites

Voi scooter taxi offers options for commuters in mega cites originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Apr 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20547705 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/tum-voi-electric-scooter_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/tum-voi-electric-scooter.jpg <![CDATA[Roland Sands builds stretched Yamaha scooter]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/17/roland-sands-builds-stretched-yamaha-scooter/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/17/roland-sands-builds-stretched-yamaha-scooter/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/17/roland-sands-builds-stretched-yamaha-scooter/#commentsFiled under: Aftermarket, Videos, Motorcycle, Design/Style

Roland Sands Yamaha TMAX

What you see above was once a mild-mannered Yamaha TMAX 530 scooter (right), turned by Roland Sands Design into the naked wonder you see above. Yamaha is having fun with the introduction of the 2013 TMAX, asking various motorcycle personalities tune its innovative new scooter, which has its engine mounted in the frame, motorcycle style, as opposed to the swingarm.

Roland Sands, an ex-AMA racer and champion, went with inspiration from his racing days, whereas French motorcycle maven Ludovic Lazareth went with a stealth chopper theme. You can watch Sands' take on the TMAX in the video below.

Continue reading Roland Sands builds stretched Yamaha scooter

Roland Sands builds stretched Yamaha scooter originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 17 Nov 2012 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 yamaha tmax 530roland sandsroland sands designrsdscootertmaxtmax 530yamahaSat, 17 Nov 2012 14:02:00 EST

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20381419 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/rolandsandstmax_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/rolandsandstmax.jpg <![CDATA[Peugeot Onyx Scooter Concept is half motorcycle, half scooter, all kinds of cool]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/28/peugeot-onyx-scooter-concept-paris-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/28/peugeot-onyx-scooter-concept-paris-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/28/peugeot-onyx-scooter-concept-paris-2012/#commentsFiled under: Concept Cars, Hybrid, Paris Motor Show, Peugeot, Motorcycle, Design/Style, Electric

Peugeot Onyx three-wheeled hybrid scooter - live at 2012 Paris Motor Show reveal

Peugeot is referring to its Onyx Concept Scooter as a two-in-one supertrike. Seems fitting. Not only can this innovative hybrid three-wheeler hit a top speed of 93 miles per hour, its 400cc engine and electric motor combination offers up 60 horsepower (45 kilowatts) and 42 pound-feet of torque, which should be plenty of gumption for quick getaways from traffic.

Handling ought to be a treat on the Onyx Scooter, with a 200/50 R17 rear tire and dual front wheels like the Piaggio MP3. Plus, there are two so-called driving positions: one, called Sport, that puts the rider in a motorcycle-like feet-back position, and another, Urban, with a more scooter-traditional feet-forward stance.

Naturally, everyone is concerned with fuel economy these days, and the Onyx Concept Scooter delivers with a rating of 117.6 miles per gallon on what we assume is the European combined cycle. Running on electricity alone, the Onyx can travel up to 18.6 miles. Using gas, it has a range of 310 miles. For more details, feel free to click below. For a full image gallery of live shots from the Paris Motor Show, see above.

Continue reading Peugeot Onyx Scooter Concept is half motorcycle, half scooter, all kinds of cool

Peugeot Onyx Scooter Concept is half motorcycle, half scooter, all kinds of cool originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 28 Sep 2012 16:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20336050 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/001-peugeot-onyx-scooter-concept628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/001-peugeot-onyx-scooter-concept628opt.jpg <![CDATA[Peugeot Onyx will be joined by matching scooter in Paris]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/22/peugeot-onyx-will-be-joined-by-matching-scooter-in-paris/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/22/peugeot-onyx-will-be-joined-by-matching-scooter-in-paris/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/22/peugeot-onyx-will-be-joined-by-matching-scooter-in-paris/#commentsFiled under: Concept Cars, Hybrid, Paris Motor Show, Peugeot, Motorcycle

Peugeot is betting even more on black (and copper) with the Onyx three-wheeled scooter concept. A fanciful sibling to the Onxy hybrid supercar concept, the scooter looks as if it could have come straight from the Japanese anime, Akira.

The Onyx scooter makes do with a bit less gumption than the 680-horsepower Onyx coupe. The three-wheeler's powertrain is a 400cc engine paired with an electric motor pushing a combined 60 horsepower and 43 pound-feet to the 17-inch rear wheel.

In between the cockpit and the seat is a storage unit called the ClipBox. The scooter is in Sport Mode with the ClipBox affixed, the rider leaning against it to reach the handlebars, naturally pushing the feet into a more sportbike-like position. Remove the ClipBox and the Onyx goes into Urban Mode, a more traditional scooter configuration with an upright seating position. Peugeot says it's good for 30 miles of all-electric travel at 31 mph, or 310 miles if it uses the ICE. You can check out its transformation in the attached photo gallery, and we'll find out more in person at the Paris Motor Show.

Peugeot Onyx will be joined by matching scooter in Paris originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 22 Sep 2012 18:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20329192 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/peugeotonyxscooter_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/peugeotonyxscooter.jpg <![CDATA[BMW set to rejuvenate scooter business]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/27/bmw-set-to-rejuvenate-scooter-business/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/27/bmw-set-to-rejuvenate-scooter-business/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/27/bmw-set-to-rejuvenate-scooter-business/#commentsFiled under: BMW, Motorcycle

BMW Motorrad Concept E - live at 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show

BMW Motorrad C1 scooter - front three-quarter studio view

Do you remember the BMW C1? The funky scooter from the German automaker has become something of a two-wheeled cult classic. The scooter made either 15 or 18 horsepower, depending on which model you got. But the most notable thing about the C1 was its futuristic windshield/roof combination and its emphasis on safety - with its integrated seatbelt, it was said to be so safe as to not require a helmet.

BMW got out of the scooter game when it ended production of the C1 in 2003, but it's poised to reemphasize that market in a big way. According to Bloomberg, BMW is looking to revive its scooter offerings, which already includes the C600 Sport and C650 GT. The lineup is set to be bolstered by the electric C Evolution e-Scooter.

BMW hinted at the return of the C1 a few years back with the C1-E concept (above, right), but it merely laid the groundwork from the e-Scooter.

This renewed focus may have something to do with rival Audi and its recent purchase of Ducati, as some are suggesting that the move has stoked BMW's desire to broaden its product portfolio to better compete with the Italian motorcycle builder.

If it's a piece of the city-dweller market that BMW is after, they may also have competition from niche automaker Smart. Daimler's urban specialist will introduce an electric version of its ForTwo city car later this year. Smart also makes a bicycle with electric propulsion that is available in Europe for around $3,500 (it's set to go on sale in the U.S. in 2014). This will be followed by an electric scooter.

Will BMW's renewed efforts in the scooter market be enough to fend off growing competition in the city vehicle market? Only time will tell.

BMW set to rejuvenate scooter business originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 27 Aug 2012 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw c1bmw motorradbmw motorrad concept cbmw scooterc1electric scooterscooterMon, 27 Aug 2012 17:59:00 EST

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20306626 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/bmw-e-scooter41_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/bmw-e-scooter41.jpg <![CDATA[Audi mulling sporty new people carrier and... a scooter?!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/17/audi-mulling-sporty-new-people-carrier-and-a-scooter/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/17/audi-mulling-sporty-new-people-carrier-and-a-scooter/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/17/audi-mulling-sporty-new-people-carrier-and-a-scooter/#commentsFiled under: Minivan/Van, Audi, Motorcycle, UK, Luxury

2013 Audi Q5 - dead-on front view, gray

Autocar says they have spoken to Audi sales and marketing chief Peter Schwarzenbauer who admits his company may soon enter the MPV market (pronounced "minivan" here in the U.S.) market. Of course, with Audi that means a premium minivan with as many as seven seats.

Schwarzenbauer tells Autocar that the brand's target is sportier - think more Ford S-Max than Honda Odyssey. That makes some sense, as Ford claims many premium brand offerings have been traded in on its rakish European S-Max.

Schwarzenbauer also let slip that as new owners of Ducati, Audi will soon introduce its own two-wheeled vehicle. The exec didn't give any indication if it would be a motorcycle or (like the concepts by Mini, Smart and BMW) a scooter. But he says there would never be a "Ducati wearing an Audi badge," characterizing the vehicle as a "future mobility solution. Thus, Autocar predicts the new vehicle will be a scooter of some sort.

Audi mulling sporty new people carrier and... a scooter?! originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Jul 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20278954 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/2013-audi-q5-dead-on-front_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/2013-audi-q5-dead-on-front.jpg <![CDATA[Smart bringing electric scooter to U.S. in 2014, will be part of Car2go]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/24/smart-bringing-electric-scooter-to-u-s-in-2014-will-be-part-of/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/24/smart-bringing-electric-scooter-to-u-s-in-2014-will-be-part-of/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/24/smart-bringing-electric-scooter-to-u-s-in-2014-will-be-part-of/#commentsFiled under: Europe, Paris Motor Show, Smart, Electric

In a blink-and-you'd-miss-it announcement during an event in Berlin, the head of marketing and sales for Smart, Martin Hülder, told us that the third model in the Smart e-Mobility range - after the Smart ForTwo Electric Drive and eBike - will be the Smart electric scooter (or "smart scooter"). To be fair, the original announcement happened in mid-May at a shindig in Davos, Switzerland, but Daimler had some new news for us in Berlin.

The stylish two-wheeler was first shown at the 2010 Paris Motor Show but was whisked into limbo from there, presumably to end up a no-go along with several previous ideas from the traditionally cash-burning company. Instead, the scooter has gotten the green light and the United States is a key market for it.

To rehash the features of the silent plug-in runabout, a 48-volt lithium-ion battery pack stored down low behind your feet supplies juice to a 4-kW (i.e. 5.4 horsepower) wheel-hub electric motor at the rear wheel. Top speed is listed at 45 km/h or 28 mph - a choice by Smart that allows the scooter to be driven on streets in many countries before one has a driver's license.

Continue reading Smart bringing electric scooter to U.S. in 2014, will be part of Car2go

Smart bringing electric scooter to U.S. in 2014, will be part of Car2go originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 24 Jun 2012 13:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20259496 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/escooter-lead-image_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/escooter-lead-image.jpg <![CDATA[Renault plugs Twizy EVs into Eiffel Tower, raves it up]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/15/renault-plugs-twizy-evs-into-eiffel-tower-raves-it-up/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/15/renault-plugs-twizy-evs-into-eiffel-tower-raves-it-up/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/15/renault-plugs-twizy-evs-into-eiffel-tower-raves-it-up/#commentsFiled under: Budget, Etc., Europe, Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Renault, Electric

Renault Twizy Video

If you've been slacking on your doctor-recommended dose of electronic beats and French weirdness, Renault has you covered. The company has turned out a new video for its Twizy pod car featuring a gaggle of youth prowling Parisian streets in the early hours of the morning. The fleet of bizarre-looking Twizy EVs descend on the Eiffel Tower for a quick plug-in just in time for the famous landmark to erupt into its hourly twinkling. The whole episode is set to some '80s wonderful tunes. It doesn't get much more French than that.

The Renault Twizy is a fully electric covered scooter available in two configurations. Buyers can opt for a nine-horsepower version with a top speed of 28 mph or a 20 hp version with a more respectable 47 mph top end. The company says charging the Twizy for three-and-a-half-hours will net users a range of around 60 miles. Not bad. Pricing for the EV starts at around $9,923 in the UK at current conversion rates. Check out the quick video for yourself. Be warned: there's a Panda in a suit.

Continue reading Renault plugs Twizy EVs into Eiffel Tower, raves it up

Renault plugs Twizy EVs into Eiffel Tower, raves it up originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 15 Jun 2012 12:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20259412 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/renault-twizy-video-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/renault-twizy-video-628.jpg <![CDATA[Domino's Pizza Safe Sound scooter is the funniest thing on two wheels]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/18/dominos-pizza-safe-sound-scooter-is-the-funniest-thing-on-two-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/18/dominos-pizza-safe-sound-scooter-is-the-funniest-thing-on-two-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/18/dominos-pizza-safe-sound-scooter-is-the-funniest-thing-on-two-w/#commentsFiled under: Etc., Humor

Domino's Pizza Safe Sound Scooter

We've seen plenty of discussion on the merits of pedestrian warning systems for hybrid and all-electric vehicles. From synthesized engine sounds to the noise of George Jetson's flying car, automakers and the aftermarket industry have worked to come up with a way to keep people aware of a vehicle's presence.

Now it looks as if Domino's Pizza is having some fun with a safe sound system for the company's electric delivery scooters in the Netherlands. Using a human voice to replicate the sound of a small-displacement gasoline engine, the scooter is both hilarious and safe.

It also makes for good advertising, though we'd hate to be the guy behind the handlebars after a few hours on the job. Between synthesized revs, the "engine" exclaims "Domino's!" and "Pizza!" in what can only be described as the perfect Netherlands accent. Scroll down for a quick chuckle.

Continue reading Domino's Pizza Safe Sound scooter is the funniest thing on two wheels

Domino's Pizza Safe Sound scooter is the funniest thing on two wheels originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dominoshuman engine soundpizzascootersoundvideoWed, 18 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST

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20218716 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/dominos-pizza-safe-sound-scooter-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/dominos-pizza-safe-sound-scooter-628.jpg <![CDATA[Honda scooter commercial employs Steve Jobs lookalike]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/16/honda-scooter-commercial-employs-steve-jobs-lookalike/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/16/honda-scooter-commercial-employs-steve-jobs-lookalike/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/16/honda-scooter-commercial-employs-steve-jobs-lookalike/#commentsFiled under: China, Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Motorcycle

Like Elvis and Tupac before him, Apple icon Steve Jobs is showing up in all kinds of unexpected places after his passing. This latest sighting comes in a commercial for a Honda SCR 110 scooter that channels The Jobs himself. Up close, the male actor isn't a ringer, but the black turtleneck and design theme leave no doubt about his inspiration.

The Chinese-language tag for this commercial says "Wuyang Honda Motorcycle." We don't know if they made it, but a post house called CN Post Production takes credit for some of the work on it. Follow the jump to check out the bizarre advertisement, and for thie other side of strange, you can check out their JianLi Bo apple juice spot.

Continue reading Honda scooter commercial employs Steve Jobs lookalike

Honda scooter commercial employs Steve Jobs lookalike originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 16 Mar 2012 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applechinacommercialhonda adhonda commercialhonda scooterhonda scr 110scootersteve jobsvideoyoutubeFri, 16 Mar 2012 19:25:00 EST

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20195248 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/jobshondachina_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/jobshondachina.jpg <![CDATA[70-mph mobility scooter on ice is one hot little rascal]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/22/70-mph-mobility-scooter-on-ice-is-one-hot-little-rascal/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/22/70-mph-mobility-scooter-on-ice-is-one-hot-little-rascal/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/22/70-mph-mobility-scooter-on-ice-is-one-hot-little-rascal/#commentsFiled under: Etc., Videos, Humor

Colin Furze Mobility Scooter

You may be familiar with the name Colin Furze. The gentleman has made a name for himself by crafting some of the most impressive small-displacement two-wheelers around, and his four-wheel creation - a mobility scooter - lives up to the same level of insanity. Thanks to a 125cc engine lifted from a dirt bike, the machine can whip to over 70 mph. If that isn't terrifying enough for you, the vehicle does it using the same wheels and tires as the electric scooters you see whirring around your local loathsome neighborhood box store.

Furze recently took his death machine out for a little fun on a snow-covered stretch of tarmac and brought along a video camera for the ride. Hilarity ensues. Hit the jump to check out the quick clip for yourself.

Continue reading 70-mph mobility scooter on ice is one hot little rascal

70-mph mobility scooter on ice is one hot little rascal originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>colin furzedirt bikedirtbikefurzehoveroundmobility scooterrascalscooterWed, 22 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST

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20177391 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/furze-mobility-scooter-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/furze-mobility-scooter-628.jpg <![CDATA[Who knew scooter racing could be so much fun?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/23/who-knew-scooter-racing-could-be-so-much-fun/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/23/who-knew-scooter-racing-could-be-so-much-fun/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/23/who-knew-scooter-racing-could-be-so-much-fun/#commentsFiled under: Motorsports, Videos, Motorcycle

scooter racing

Scooter... racing? We've got to be kidding, right? Only we're not. Because if it's got wheels - or often even if it doesn't - it can be raced. So while you might think of motor scooters as little more than an easy, cheap, quick and (if we're being completely honest here) downright fun way of getting around town, you can pretty much be guaranteed that someone, somewhere will be racing them.

And that's just what we've found in the video after the jump, where a group of speed junkies set up an autocross circuit in a parking lot and went at it - complete with some of the least threatening crashes and spills you'll ever see in any form of motorsport. Check it out.

Continue reading Who knew scooter racing could be so much fun?

Who knew scooter racing could be so much fun? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 23 Dec 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>racingscootervideoFri, 23 Dec 2011 15:00:00 EST

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20134508 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/scooter-racing_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/scooter-racing.jpg <![CDATA[Honda stuns world by showing off surprise new Integra]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/08/honda-stuns-world-by-showing-off-surprise-new-integra/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/08/honda-stuns-world-by-showing-off-surprise-new-integra/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/08/honda-stuns-world-by-showing-off-surprise-new-integra/#commentsFiled under: Etc., Europe, Japan, Honda, Motorcycle

2012 Honda Integra scooter

Only it's not what you think. Acura won't be rolling out a new performance hatch anytime soon. Instead, Honda Motorcycles has pulled the sheets off of a new two-wheeled Integra model at this year's EICMA show. The vehicle is effectively an overgrown scooter with a 670 cc engine and an optional dual-clutch gearbox. Honda says the vehicle is meant to meld the motorcycle and scooter worlds with plenty of performance, great fuel economy and superior accessibility thanks to its feet-forward riding position. Buyers will be able to chose between two engine specifications, with most Integra models boasting somewhere in the neighborhood of 52 horsepower.

European buyers, meanwhile, will be able to opt for a slightly less potent variant with around 47 horsepower to meet 2013 European Union A2 licensing requirements. Honda says that both engines are specifically engineered for peak performance below 87 mph and 6,000 rpm, where the company says that 90 percent of riding typically occurs. All of which is well and good, but the name of this thing is a subtle jab to the ribs for those holding out hope for an affordable performance hatch from the Japanese brand. Check out the gallery and hit the jump for the press release.

Continue reading Honda stuns world by showing off surprise new Integra

Honda stuns world by showing off surprise new Integra originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Nov 2011 15:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Boulon motor scooter skatepark

Scooters can be a great way to negotiate the hustle and bustle of urban traffic. That's seemingly one of the only things that the engine-powered machine has in common with its much more simple pedal-powered two-wheeled sibling, the bicycle. Unless you're name is Boulon, a scooter rider who hails from Marseille in France.

Marseille is home, logically enough, to the Bowl of Marseille, a well-known skatepark that attracts adventure seekers from around the globe. Whereas most people hit the Bowl with inline skates, a skateboard or a BMX bicycle, Boulon chooses to attack the course with a motor scooter.

We know what you're thinking, and the answer is yes. There is video. The Vimeo description incorrectly calls the scooter a Vespa, but that's okay. What really matters is the footage, and that doesn't disappoint, with multiple camera angles and even some slow-motion action shots. Want to watch? Hit the jump.

Oh, and while we of course suggest you don't try this at home, if you do, at least wear a helmet...

Continue reading French man rides skatepark on motor scooter

French man rides skatepark on motor scooter originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 12 Oct 2011 19:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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vietnamese crosswalk

A Vietnamese crosswalk is a great place for motorized transportation, especially when it's of the two-wheeled variety. It's not, however, a great place for people. Still, the brave soul in the video posted after the jump understands how to tackle this dangerous obstacle course. Slowly, methodically, this adventurous man cuts through the unyielding traffic mass like a surgical pedestrian.

Click past the jump to see how one crosses the street in Vietnam.

Continue reading How to successfully cross the road in Vietnam

How to successfully cross the road in Vietnam originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Aug 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW Motorrad E-Scooter

BMW Motorrad Concept Vehicle BMW E-Scooter - Click above for high-res image gallery

The BMW Motorrad Concept Vehicle BMW E-Scooter is all-electric, but does its best to provide the range of a regular, internal-combustion-engine scooter. The point of this exercise was to create an electric mount that could take the place of a scooter commuter in terms of range, power and convenience. The E-Scooter has a daily range of 100 kilometers (62 miles), and it's battery can be fully charged in three hours from a household outlet.

Speaking of that battery, instead of a proper frame, the aluminum casing for the battery and liquid-cooled ancillary systems acts as the frame. BMW says the powerplant is strong enough for "safe and reliable overtaking" on highways and for "hill starts on steep slopes" with two on board.

Lacking a hub motor and planetary gearbox, a toothed belt runs from the electric motor to a belt pulley on the swinging fork pivot, where a drive pinion controls power to the rear wheel via a roller chain. Intense, yes, but what else would you expect of BMW? For all the info, check out the gallery of high-res photos below and the press release and videos after the jump.

Continue reading BMW Motorrad E-Scooter concept gets detailed [w/videos]

BMW Motorrad E-Scooter concept gets detailed [w/videos] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 04 Jul 2011 12:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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19982273 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/bmwe-scooter_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/bmwe-scooter.jpg <![CDATA[BMW Concept C scooter coming to America]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/02/report-bmw-concept-c-scooter-coming-to-america/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/02/report-bmw-concept-c-scooter-coming-to-america/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/02/report-bmw-concept-c-scooter-coming-to-america/#commentsFiled under: BMW, Motorcycle

BMW Concept C

BMW Motorrad Concept C - Click above for high-res image gallery

You may remember the Concept C from last year. It was BMW Motorrad's vision of what a large motor scooter could look like, and now it's headed into production.

Our friends at Hell for Leather report that a production version of the Concept C will be unveiled at major motorbike shows after the summer. And once it's in production, it'll likely get a different name, but after that it's headed for the United States.

Whether the LED headlights, LCD "dashboard" monitors and ABS disc brakes will make it onto the production version remains to be seen. The blue-treaded tires, though, almost definitely won't.

Gallery: BMW Motorrad Concept C

[Source: Hell for Leather]

BMW Concept C scooter coming to America originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 02 May 2011 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2011 ETA QTVan

2011 ETA QTVan - Click above to view video after the jump

Mobility scooter owners now have a new way to make sure they're first in line for the early-bird special or senior discount day with the QTVan, a mobility scooter-towed mini caravan. The trailer was designed by English company Environmental Transport Association as a convenient way to dodge lines, or a handy place to stay should your Rascal crap out on you. With the Royal Wedding fast approaching, ETA is touting the mini camper as a perfect way to beat the crowd in comfort and style.

It's no Airstream by any means, but manages to fit a raft of features into a package just over six feet long. Inside, there's a full-size bed, a tea service, a full bar and a 19-inch flat-screen television. It's even available for short vacations, though with a 30-mile range and six-mph top end, it won't get you much further than the park.

For those with a green-sensitive mindset, the ETA says the QTVan is 100-percent carbon neutral, provided you use sustainable energy sources to charge it. Conveniently, ETA will also sell you a mobility scooter ~~roadside~~ curbside assistance plan, covering everything from loss of charge to flat tires. Between the QTVan and the breakdown coverage, ETA has all your mobility scooter needs in hand.

The QTVan is available now to English customers, with a starting price of £5,500, or about $9,000, not including the scooter itself. Breakdown coverage will run you £49.99, or around $82, per year. Click past the jump to check out an epically awesome video of the QTVan in action.

[Source: YouTube via ETA]

Continue reading UK company markets caravan pulled by mobility scooter [w/video]

UK company markets caravan pulled by mobility scooter [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 22 Apr 2011 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Yamaha Power Beam

Yamaha has introduced a new product aimed at dampening frame flex in motorcycles and scooters. All two-wheeled machines experience varying levels of deflection under hard riding, and while excess flex can give the impression of an unsettled machine, too little can numb the bike's handing at the limit. In order to find that Goldilocks sweet spot between the two extremes, Yamaha has introduced the Power Beam. The device soaks up energy from frame flex and converts it into heat energy, which is then dissipated. The company says that the device serves up a more comfortable, stable ride.

While you'd think that that the new tech would debut on the latest and greatest street rocket from Yamaha, the company says at first, the Power Beam will only be available on the company's T-Max scooter. From what we hear, the T-Max enjoys a fairly substantial tuning following and owners are quick to snap up the latest and greatest piece of kit from the Japanese manufacturer. There is some indication that the Power Beam may make its way to other products in the near future, however.

[Source: Visordown, Asphalt & Rubber]

Yamaha unveils Power Beam damper to control motorcycle frame flex originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 Mar 2011 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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19886720 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/power-beam-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/power-beam-630.jpg <![CDATA[BMW does the twist-and-go with Concept C scooter [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/03/bmw-does-the-twist-and-go-with-concept-c-scooter-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/03/bmw-does-the-twist-and-go-with-concept-c-scooter-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/03/bmw-does-the-twist-and-go-with-concept-c-scooter-w-video/#commentsFiled under: Concept Cars, BMW, Misc. Auto Shows, Motorcycle

BMW Concept C

BMW Motorrad Concept C - Click above for high-res image gallery

Say what you will about motor scooters, but twist-and-go is how an inordinate proportion of the world's population gets around town. Simply put, there is no simpler way of getting through crowded city streets, and let's face it: city streets are only getting more crowded. With that in mind, BMW - one of the few automakers that builds four-wheeled vehicles as well as two - has unveiled its vision for the next generation of large motor scooters, which it calls Concept C.

Drawing on decades of experience building full-size motorcycles, BMW Motorrad has delved into the scooter market with a fresh concept that brings familiar design cues from its existing lineup of off-road, touring and sport bikes to a commuter form. In short, BMW is "expanding its present motorcycle adventure world to include the big scooter." Their words, not ours.

Instead of reinventing the wheel as other companies have tried, the Concept C is powered by a conventional two-cylinder engine mated to a continuously-variable transmission, although consideration is being given to future electric powertrains. The front fork features dual disc brakes accompanied by a single disc in the back and supported by ABS. LED headlights illuminate the road ahead, while dual LCD monitors provide the instrumentation.

There's more to read in the press release after the jump, accompanied by video footage and the high-resolution image mega-gallery below.

Gallery: BMW Motorrad Concept C

[Source: BMW]

Continue reading BMW does the twist-and-go with Concept C scooter [w/video]

BMW does the twist-and-go with Concept C scooter [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 03 Nov 2010 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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