KYOTO: Japanese EV maker GLM Co Ltd has released a spherical electric scooter concept designed for senior drivers that promises freedom of mobility.
It is expected to go into series production by the end of 2022.
As populations grow older, the tendency for them to get into accidents increases.
A variety of measures are being taken around the world to deter the elderly from driving, such as encouraging voluntary return of driver's licenses and the introduction of laws and regulations restricting driving hours and locations.
GLM said its compact scooter was meant to support the elderly and ensure they can continue to enjoy an active, independent, and outgoing lifestyle.
The Kyoto-based company said its research showed that a spherical design for a scooter was desirable to the elderly. At present, it is honing the design of the scooter with the propulsion system to follow later.
GLM said conventional scooters for seniors generally looked unappealing as they were designed just by attaching handles, tyres and seats onto a frame, along with cowls and various other parts.
"By and large, electric mobility scooters for seniors tend to look like they were designed for old people, making them unattractive to the many who still feel youthful."
