The Segway
definition
A Segway PT is an electrically powered, single-person transport vehicle with only two wheels on the same axle, between which the transported person stands and which keeps itself balanced by an electronic drive control.
How it works
The driver stands on a platform between two side-by-side wheels and can easily hold onto the handlebars. Each wheel is driven by a separate electric motor via an individual wheel drive. Different wheel speeds allow for cornering similar to tracked vehicles.
The vehicle is self-balancing. The electronics automatically steer the Segway PT in the direction the rider leans. As soon as the sensors detect that the rider is leaning forward or backward, the wheels turn in that direction. Movement is controlled solely by these weight shifts; there are no controls for braking or accelerating.
This functionality is similar to upright walking, where the body's center of gravity is always located above the feet. Segways are therefore intuitive to operate.
A turn of the handlebars to the right or left initiates the corresponding turn. As soon as the rider leans the handlebars to the side, this is detected by the sensors, and the corresponding wheel rotates more slowly, thus causing the turn.
Road safety
Several safety assessments have concluded that the safety risks and the potential for conflict with other road users are no greater than with other approved small vehicles.
Since the product launch, only a few accidents have been reported.
The braking deceleration exceeds the legal requirement of 3.5 m/s² at more than 5 m/s².
In a report entitled "Segway in public traffic areas", which the TU Kaiserslautern published on behalf of the BASt (Federal Highway Research Institute), Hartmut Topp writes:
"The risk of accidents and the danger of falls appear lower compared to, for example, a bicycle."
Accidents are more likely to happen if a wheel loses traction (e.g., on black ice) or collides with obstacles (deep potholes, high curbs, or walls). Novice drivers sometimes underestimate these dangers.
Situation in Germany
The regulation on the participation of small electric vehicles in road traffic (eKFV) applies.
Minimum age 14 years, driver's license not required!
Minimum 45 kg and maximum 118 kg
Segway PT
The classic Segway PT – ideal for city tours. The perfect synthesis of function, form, and riding fun. At only 63 cm wide, it's narrow enough to fit through almost any doorway.
Maximum speed: 20 km/h
Range: 38 km
Weight: 47.7 kg
Transport dimensions: 64 cm × 48 cm
Tires: Ø 46 cm, W: 9.5 cm
Ground clearance: 9.5 cm
Maximum payload: 120 kg
Technical data
