Uno III electric unicycle
Making use of two gyroscopes to keep it upright, the Uno III can also transform into a scooter at higher speedsWe've seen unicycle gadgets aren't new either. But what about an electric unicycle? That can transform into a scooter!
Sounds about as useful as a slap in the face, but there could be merit to the latest evolution of the Uno unicycle/scooter crossbreed. Developed in 2008 by a Canadian student, Ben J. Poss Gulak, the Uno uses a pair of micro gyroscopes to keep it stable in unicycle mode, not unlike the Segway.
Like the Segway, the vehicle is controlled entirely by leaning when in unicycle mode, so to accelerate the rider leans forward, to turn the rider tilts to the side and so on.
But a major new addition has been added to the vehicle since it first broke cover a couple of years back - the Uno III now features an extendable front wheel that unfurls automatically when the bike reaches higher speeds.
The updated Uno III made its debut at the recent CES technology show in Las Vegas, and while it can be ridden around in the lean-steer unicycle mode, the small retractable front wheel essentially turns it into a scooter.
Its creators reckon this wheel improves high speed stability, potentially making the electric scooter a more viable commuter vehicle for a broader range of riders. BPG Motors bought the rights to build the curious machine and is hoping to commercialise the product in the very near future, with plans to sell the Uno III in Europe at prices expected to be around 4800 Euros, which converted to about $6200 at the time of writing.
We've had no word on an Australian release at this stage, however.
Power comes from an electric motor and a lithium battery pack, so you'll never have to go to the petrol station again - just plug it in overnight and away you go. However due to scooter regulations in Europe, the top speed is limited to 56km/h (35mph) and the range of the vehicle is about 45km.
For more details on the Uno III, check out the BPG Motors website.
Read the latest Bikesales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at
. Or download the .Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.
