Electric scooter FAQs
If you are looking into buying an electric scooter and have questions such as whether it's legal to ride on public paths or whether it's waterproof, have a look at our helpful FAQ's.
Are electric scooters waterproof?
A manufacturer will test and provide an e-scooter with a rating based on its waterproofness, so it is important to check the specifications of your scooter as these will vary.
Each of these IP ratings will be between 0 and 9. The higher the number, the more waterproof it is. A level of 5 or 6 should provide protection from puddles, splashes and light rain.
It is also important to be aware of your warranty, as many manufacturers will advise riders not to use their scooter in the rain, which could void your warranty if you go against recommendations.
How fast do electric scooters go?
Your average e-scooter is typically capable of speeds around 25km/h or 15.5mph. Most countries limit e-scooters to a maximum speed of 25km/h or 15.5mph. In the UK rental scooters have this same speed limit, although operators can choose to set a lower limit.
Halfords only sells electric scooters with a maximum speed of up to 25km/h or 15.5mph.
Always check your manufacturer's terms and conditions, as well as the current laws, when buying.
Can electric scooters go uphill?
Yes, electric scooters can travel uphill, but there are some things you need to know before hitting the hills.
When travelling uphill, the motor will need to work harder, which will drain the battery more quickly. You’ll also find travelling uphill is slower, too.
If you are planning on taking your e-scooter uphill, then invest in one with a powerful motor for the best performance, for example, Carrera scooters are built with excellent hill climbing ability. Be sure to keep it charged up!
Can you push electric scooters?
Electric scooters are designed to be used with a battery-powered electric motor. If you push your electric scooter, you could damage the motor, so we recommend that you fold it up and walk to your destination if you need to. Every scooter is equipped with a battery level indicator so you can plan ahead to charge if you’re running low.
How long do electric scooters last?
The total distance you can travel on an e-scooter is measured in its range.
Basic scooters will provide up to 10 miles of propelling power. But more advanced (and expensive) models from brands such as Xiaomi and Carrera, can travel much further.
Often scooters will advertise their maximum range but this should only be used as a comparison, as it describes the maximum possible the scooter can travel in its slowest mode in ideal conditions.
Many factors can influence the range you will achieve on a full charge including rider weight, incline/hills, ambient temperature, and wind resistance. We, therefore, include a typical range which will provide a more realistic estimate based on an average weight rider travelling in typical conditions.
Please note that the maximum ranges stated are tested in optimal conditions.
Electric scooters: How do they work
Electric scooters are fitted with small electric motors that are powered by a rechargeable battery.
First, you need to turn your e-scooter on and if your scooter has a display, select from the ride modes available.
Depending on your e-scooter, you may be required to kick off, with certain scooters needing you to reach a speed of 3mph before the motor will engage. You may also need to assist the e-scooter by kicking when moving up steeper hills or across rough terrain.
What do electric scooters cost?
E-scooters vary in price depending on the specifications and features you go for.
You should expect to pay over £100 for a child’s electric scooter and over £300 for an adult e-scooter.
Some top-of-the-range electric scooters , however, will be more expensive to purchase, some costing up to £599.
Are e-scooters dangerous?
E-scooters are designed and built to high standards and are mechanically safe to ride. However, accidents can still happen, so you should always be careful. We recommend wearing appropriate safety gear, including a helmet any time you ride your e-scooter.
How do you store electric scooters?
Most E-Scooters have quick folding mechanisms. Undoing a lever allows you to fold the scooter in half enabling it to be carried.
The folded scooter also takes up less space making them ideal when storage space at home is at a premium.
What is the best electric scooter for adults?
Here are our choices of the best electric scooter for adults:
Upgrading the world’s favourite: Xiaomi 4
Retaining the high-grade features that made it the world’s best-selling e-scooter, the Xiaomi 4 offers an enhanced riding experience, whilst maintaining the well-known stylish design with a minimalist handlebar and display.
The powerful motor will propel you to a top speed of 15.5mph, with a maximum range of up to 22 miles. and tackle inclines of up to 16 degrees.
If you’re looking for a reasonably priced scooter that will deliver exceptional performance, it’s the Xiaomi 4.
At Halfords, we’re an official Xiaomi stockist, so you’ll get a 2-year warranty as standard when you buy from us.
Pure Performance: Xiaomi 4 Pro
Retaining the high-grade features that made it the world’s best-selling e-scooter, the updated Pro 4 offers an enhanced riding experience thanks to an improved integrated display, with prominent and easy-to-distinguish icons, which is now much easier to read, even when riding on bumpy roads.
Thanks to a new high-quality 12.4ah lithium battery the scooter is now able to reach a maximum range of up to 30 miles/45km, with a top speed of 15.5 mph.
Functionality has been enhanced through the app itself, displaying visualised information at a glance – access your remote locking system, rider statistics and customised cruise control settings with ease.
Complete Package: Carrera IS-1 2.0 and IS-2 2.0
Whatever the weather, you can always depend on the Carrera Impel is-1 2.0 Electric Scooter. Boasting an IPX5 waterproof rating, the scooter is both rain and puddle-proof.
The Carrera Impel is-2 2.0 Electric Scooter is the complete package. Every aspect of it is carefully designed to meet the needs of riders. That’s why the scooter boasts an IPX5 waterproof rating, meaning it’s also both water and puddle-proof and prepared for any British weather.
Convenience is also at the forefront of the design and the scooter can be folded in seconds using the quick-folding mechanism.
Legal Warning: E-Scooter law - not to be used on public roads, cycle paths or pavements. Only on private land with the landowner's consent. For more information click here.