Segway Shared Scooter Max, Loomo Deliver to fix last mile problems
Segway made a name for its self with its initially odd-looking "personal transporters" and, later on, the first hoverboards. But while they may look like toys for some, Segway's mission has always been about conquering the "last mile" of transportation, those few hundred steps between your card and your actual destination. At CES 2019 next week, it will be showcasing not just its current lineup of products but two new ones, including a self-driving delivery robot.
Most recent advancements in automotive technology and travel mostly revolve around cars, trucks, highways, and roads. Segway Ninebot, in contrast, has always concerned itself with the "off-road" portion of travel from car to door. Of course, that hasn't stopped its products from being used in other ways, including recreation or, more seriously, patrolling grounds.
Like with cars, the new autonomous delivery robots (some of which meet ugly fates) are often designed to go from warehouse or store to door. But what if the exact drop-off point is indoors or, worse, a few floors above? That's where Segway Robotics' Loomo Delivery comes in. The autonomous robot vehicle is loaded with features to ensure the safe delivery of parcels or pizza to their intended recipients. It can, for example, navigate indoor obstacles, people-filled spaces, and, presuming it's integrated with the building, elevator control.
Most of Segway's earlier products are called personal transporters for a reason. While bulky at times, they really have room for only one user. Recently, the company has taken on the same problem as the likes of Uber and Lyft are trying to solve. They call it shared scooters and its meant to get you and a friend through that last mile together. Its first scooters, however, revealed considerations the company didn't completely think of. They didn't take into account the increased wear and tear that having more than one passenger would incur.
Enter the Shared Scooter Model Max, Powered by Segway. The lengthy name points to the fact that this has been designed with durability and longevity in mind, taking into account overuse and maintenance costs for a fledgling niche market. Of course, it also means more than one person will be able to enjoy that leisurely stroll on wheels.
The Loomo Deliver robot and Shared Scooter Model Max, Powered by Segway will be on display at CES 2019 next week. They won't be alone, of course, and will be joined by the likes of the Ninebot Gokart Kit and the Segway Drift W1 hover skates.