1. Market Development and Industry Landscape

In recent years, electric scooters have emerged as a vital solution for short-distance travel worldwide, driven by their eco-friendliness and agility. China, a core market, is projected to reach an 8billionmarketsizeby2025,accountingfor27143.08 billion by 2037.

The market is split between shared and personal ownership models. Shared services, led by brands like Mobike and Hello, dominate roughly 60% of the market. Meanwhile, the premium segment is spearheaded by companies such as Ninebot, which leverages smart technologies (e.g., remote unlocking, BeiDou navigation) to secure its position as the high-end sales leader for two consecutive years. With a market value exceeding ¥42.9 billion, Ninebot outpaces traditional rivals like Yadea.

2. Product Technology and Innovation Breakthroughs

Electric scooters continue to evolve in design and technology:

Range and Power: Mainstream models offer 20–45 km ranges. For instance, the Xiaomi Pro features a 474Wh battery, a top speed of 25 km/h, and a 20° max climb angle. The Airwheel Z5 emphasizes portability with a lightweight 13.15 kg frame and an 18° climb capability.

Battery Tech: Lithium-ion batteries lead the market, offering higher energy density and near-100% charging efficiency, far surpassing lead-acid alternatives. Ninebot’s proprietary Battery Management System (BMS) integrates 20+ safety protocols and extends battery life through smart charging.

Smart Features: Brands like Ninebot and Xiaomi incorporate app connectivity for real-time battery monitoring, firmware updates, and anti-theft locking, enabling remote control via smartphones.

3. Diverse Application Scenarios

Urban Commuting: Electric scooters address the "last-mile" challenge, navigating traffic congestion with ease. In cities like Shenzhen and Shanghai, commuters use foldable designs to seamlessly integrate with subways and buses, cutting travel time.

Recreation: Park and plaza riding has become a trendy activity for youth, blending mobility with fun. Off-road models, such as Segway’s all-terrain scooters, cater to adventurous riders in mountainous or forested areas.

Industrial Use: Scooters are deployed in warehouses for logistics and by security teams for efficient patrols, boosting operational productivity.

4. Challenges and User Pain Points

Regulatory Hurdles: Many regions lack clear road-use policies. For example, New Zealand permits sub-300W scooters on sidewalks, while higher-powered models require motorcycle registration. In China, some cities still ban scooters from public roads.

Safety Risks: Small wheel diameters (typically 8.5 inches) struggle with uneven terrain, increasing risks of instability or accidents. Users are advised to wear helmets, avoid sudden braking, and prioritize safety gear.

Infrastructure Gaps: Insufficient charging stations limit long-distance travel, particularly in developing nations. Current networks fail to meet the demand for charging points every 50 km.

5. Future Trends and Opportunities

Tech Innovation: Advancements in battery life (e.g., solid-state batteries) and smarter features (e.g., autonomous obstacle avoidance) will define competitiveness.

Policy Standardization: Governments may incentivize green mobility through subsidies and clearer regulations, aligning with "dual-carbon" goals.

Niche Customization: Brands are tailoring products to specific demographics, such as lightweight models for women (Ninebot’s 10.6 kg C-series) and safer options for children.

Conclusion

Electric scooters represent not just a mobility revolution but also a symbol of low-carbon urban living. With technological breakthroughs and supportive policies, they are transitioning from niche gadgets to mainstream transportation, reshaping cities into sustainable ecosystems. Users must balance performance, safety, and local regulations to maximize their value, ensuring electric scooters drive a greener future for urban mobility.