The popularity of electric scooters is starting to enter increasingly interesting transportation sectors. The latest development has seen the US Army testing a four wheel electric scooter known as EZRaider.
The U.S. Army uses the annual Army Expeditionary Warrior Experiments (AEWE) at Fort Benning, Georgia, to conduct a series of tests and simulations that give Soldiers the opportunity to test new and experimental equipment. While the usual suspects like weapons and robotics will be among the dozens of new devices tested in the field, this year sees an interesting contender in the mobility category: the EZRaider four-wheel electric scooter.
The EZRaider is unique in the electric mobility space, combining the riding position of a scooter with the stability of a quad.
It features patent-pending suspension that allows each wheel to move independently both vertically and horizontally. The device's high handlebar offers extra stability while its off-road tires offer traction on different terrains. The electric drive allows it to operate very quietly, which can be a significant advantage for tactical situations.
EZRaider is available in numerous variants, with powers ranging from 2,4 kW to 18 kW and battery capacities between 1,7 and 3 kWh. There are options for rear or all-wheel drive. EZRaider is designed to carry up to 200kg of weight in its strongest model. It can also pull a specially designed trailer for transporting accidents or equipment.
Vehicles for future wars
I had my reservations about how such a thing could work. After all, here in Europe we are still arguing about micro-mobility, and in the USA do they make war with these trabiccoli? However, the videos clearly show that a trained driver can have great advantage using this contraption. Soldiers who operate on rough terrain and need to transport significant equipment can exploit its potential.
Summary: EZRaider can carry two passengers, up to a ton of weight, has a fairly narrow track, makes no noise and has fewer parts to repair or maintain. Having said that, to operate at speed it is even imaginable a host of soldiers on electric dirt bikes.
