GLA leader makes personal appeal for electric transporter trial

07 February 2008

Greater London Authority should offer a site for a major public trial of the Segway ‘personal transporter’ (PT), the authority’s Conservative leader said this week.

Richard Barnes was demonstrating the US-developed, electric-powered ‘stand-on-and-go’ device at London’s City Hall. He launched a campaign to win it approval as part of the transport mix from the Department for Transport, which currently restricts its use to private land.

A single 0.8kW charge from a domestic socket allows it a range of up to 34km at speeds of up to 20km/h, giving high ‘green’ credentials for short journeys. The Police Federation of England and Wales backs it to speed up patrolling.

Sutton (Greater London) police ran a 2007 public trial which the DfT halted, citing safety reasons. Police have said they would not prosecute for public use of the PT, which falls outside existing vehicle categories. One solution could be to seek approval for its electronic braking system.

The company is hoping for an end-March tally of 100 MPs’ signatures on an early day motion, sponsored by Liberal Democrat transport spokesman, Paul Rowen, followed by a private member’s Bill. It may also target the devolved Scottish and Welsh governments. PTs are approved for public use in France, Germany, Italy, Spain and Switzerland.

Register now for full access

Register just once to get unrestricted, real-time coverage of the issues and challenges facing UK transport and highways engineers.

Full website content includes the latest news, exclusive commentary from leading industry figures and detailed topical analysis of the highways, transportation, environment and place-shaping sectors. Use the link below to register your details for full, free access.

Already a registered? Login

Sign In

GLA leader makes personal appeal for electric transporter trial

order biaxin tablets

buying biaxin

ordering clarithromycin

Register now for full access

Login