I came away from CES 2016 in Las Vegas convinced that we may be seeing the end of walking. This year’s Consumer Electronics Show featured open market warfare between multiple manufacturers of electric personal mobility machines. They were there with four wheels, three wheels and two wheels — stand up, sit down, with seats and without, intended for every0one from playful children to commuting adults.
Already in the electric personal mobility business with their M-Scooter and Rocketskates, ACTON used CES 2016 to round out their collection with the Blink Board – a wireless, Bluetooth-controlled skateboard controlled by phone or the ACTON’s included remote.
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The wireless control allows the Blink Board rider to set the speed of the board, while onboard geo-tracking lets riders save trips, share routes and view real-time analytics on the board. Users can also track the board’s remaining power supply.
The Blink Board uses an 1500 watt motor, allowing a top speed 15 mph on their boards — faster than many competing scooters. The app or remote allows adjusting the speed settings between Beginner, Normal and Pro – all depending on the rider’s skill level and desired speed. The Blink-Board needs two hours of battery charge to run at full power.
Buyers can choose their board cover and finish, but all board are made of Canadian Maple Wood.
So, throw in another blow to walking. The idea of pedestrian ambulation may just soon fade into a realm of charging batteries and tiny rubber wheels. Strolling? We hardly knew ye.
