Another offering from our friends across the water. This one is the Shire, an electric powered personal mobility vehicle manufactured by Batricar LTD, in the United Kingdom. Yes, an electric scooter, plus some. Unlike most American mades our European friends believe in offering up some real get-arounds.

Specifically designed to get around town and country, this rover can crank out 8mph and has been known to go for 30 miles with a passenger weighing 16 stones. 16 Stones? I believe that is somewhere around 224 lbs. This will certainly vary depending on terrain and general condition of the batteries. It packs 800 watts, two 4 pole motors, a transaxle, knobby ground grabbing tires, and an assortment of lighting.

At 55.1″ long by 31.8″ wide, it may not be the type of cruiser you would want to take indoors, unless of course you live in Windsor Castle. It does however reflect some of the cultural aspects that many Americans overlook. Specifically, the desire to be outdoors with less dependency on cars, vans, and buses. For many Europeans getting out and about is a social event. Whether it is a trip to the store or a jaunt through the park, it presents an opportunity to interact, to socialize, and to partake in the day-to-day community.