SEBASTOPOL, Calif., March 18, 2002 (PRIMEZONE) -- Electric scooter pioneer ZAP (Nasdaq:ZAPPQ) today announced that has shipped out the first 100 units to customers of a new electric scooter called the ZAPPY(r) Turbo. The new scooter was designed for scooter fans looking for a little more speed and performance.
The new ZAPPY Turbo includes several upgrades, including a "turbo" performance mode that powers it to speeds up to 18 MPH. The new scooter appears similar to the classic design that sparked a revolution in transportation back in 1997 -- but these days it's what's inside that counts. Innovations in power-control electronics are helping ZAP designers respond to the increasing demand for hi-performance, portable transportation.
"Scooter technology has gone way beyond taking a skateboard and slapping a motor on it," said ZAP Engineer Rick Rocklewitz. "To reach that next plateau, you need to look at the system as a whole and create a package that has the right balance between performance, efficiency and durability. On the Turbo we tweaked everything from the electronics to the construction to squeeze extra speed and torque out of the system while maintaining a lightweight, portable design."
The scooter has a new look, black chrome finish with steel and aluminum construction, alloy wheels and upgraded components, but the inner-workings of the scooter are what really set it apart. The new electronic propulsion system uses a proprietary motor-controller system that offers improved acceleration, hill climbing and endurance. A new key-lock mechanism on the ZAPPY Turbo lets riders lock the scooter in the off position, as well as switch and lock the scooter in a "cruise" mode of 14 MPH and a "turbo" mode of 18 MPH. Speed and range are subject to the weight of the user and riding conditions. Scooters like the ZAPPY Turbo are subject to local traffic restrictions and riders should consult with their local transportation authorities.
ZAP helped pioneer the U.S. market for stand-on electric scooters with the release of its ZAPPY folding electric scooter in 1997. To see and order the new ZAPPY Turbo, visit http://www.zapworld.com or call 800-251-4555.