My coworker who commutes in from Alameda does so part of the way on an electric scooter. The same type of scooter that litter the sidewalks, ready for rent from companies like BIRD or whatever. The coworker paid the few hundred bucks instead to buy. It’s like owning a house rather than renting - on a much smaller scale.
Even my brother has bought an electric scooter. He started a new job near Chase Center, so parking is horrendously difficult (or expensive, if you’re willing to pay). Public transport is unreliable at the hours he works, so a zippy scooter is the way to go. These things can kind of fly! The unit he bought tops out at 30 miles per hour. Plenty fast in my opinion to do some damage. Thankfully he’s smart to wear a helmet.
Meanwhile, here I am walking the 10 minutes to work. It is the dream.
It’s fascinating to think about just how quickly electric power seems to have permeated our transportation options (thanks, Elon). Electric bikes and scooters give people an often superior option to public transport (this isn’t the ultra reliable and on-time version in Japan), without going the full car. Relatively easy to store, and can charge with any outlet. Another coworkers rides an e-bike into work all the way from south city. It’s great to see.
Because gas prices are still very high. The bikes and scooters are inexpensive enough that even students can afford. I see plenty of them on campus doing the commute. I just wish they would obey the rules and not ride them on campus grounds. I’m walking here!
Past glory.