Electric Scooter in Algarve Portugal
It was during my ‘Algarve Network Tour’ that I first heard about this type of electric scooter, brand name ‘Ego-Rider’. At that time I was visiting Algarve for just a week, reaching out to the local business community. I wanted to discover if I could fit into the way of life here, using my own skills of creativity, marketing and holistic therapy.
My network tour allowed me to return to the Algarve for 2 months during the summer of 2018. I had secured a caravan for my accommodation and there was the possibility of the use of an electric scooter for my mode of transport.
I now wish I had organised some practice prior to my trip, as I was not used to this type of vehicle and I didn’t ‘take-off’ in a confident manner. I was kindly given instead, a state of the art bicycle by one of the ‘Ego-Rider’ team, for the duration of my 2 month stay.
Ego Rider is the brand name of a particular type of electric scooter, being imported from Asia by Neil Allen and Michel de Wijze, the owners of this operation in Portugal’s Algarve. Along with their expert technician, Octavian (Tave) they test and prepare the electric scooter for the market and provide any necessary maintenance.
Neil is originally from UK and Michel is from Holland. Both have a strong background in business from varying careers. Neil and Michel’s business venture with the electric scooter is started early in 2018. During a visit to their workshop I could see how much they enjoy working on the various models while testing them for the market.
Their electric scooter is very ‘green’ in the environmental sense as it uses only electric power, costing very little to charge them (within 4 to 5 hours) and giving an average range of 40 to 60km. They come in many colours, red, black, white, orange, blue, yellow and green. There are also a few different models with different price ranges (up to €1, 375 at time of writing in summer of 2018).
The Ego-Riders are fitted with security alarm, mirrors and gears. Some have suspension in the front and back and others in front only. There is even a two seater model. They weigh on average 80kg and can be limited to speeds of 25km per hour or a maximum of 50km per hour.
The speed is significant, as the owners explain that in Portugal (at time of writing), electric scooters that are limited to 25km per hour, fall under the same category as bicycle. An electronic vehicle which travels any faster than 25km per hour is required to be registered in the same manner as a motorcycle and must adhere to the same safety regulations with regards to wearing of a helmet!
The speed is significant, as the owners explain that in Portugal (at time of writing), electric scooters that are limited to 25km per hour, fall under the same category as bicycle.
This article was not sponsored in any way. It was written in good faith and as a gesture of goodwill. If you have any comments or queries please put them in the comments box below – especially if you have found the information helpful. I rely on your support to provide the stories that matter most.
© Caroline Cunningham
I provide wellbeing supports and inspiration for authentic path (you being a better version of you). Along with being a wellbeing specialist, I write books and blogs and provide colourful artwork for your living or workspace. Get in touch if your life needs a boost in any of these ways.
