Japanese personal mobility company Shimizu has set a new standard in urban commuting with the launch of the Arma e-scooter. The new innovation product is touted as the world’s smallest and lightest folding electric scooter. The Arma weighs in at an astonishing 10 lbs (4.5 kg) and promises unparalleled convenience for city dwellers.

Shimizu Arma

The Shimizu Arma features a unique folding design with multiple joints. This innovation allows the scooter to be compacted to the size of a standard piece of printer paper, making it effortlessly portable. The entire folding process takes less than 30 seconds, transforming the Arma into a sleek and easily transportable case with a built-in handle.

Another standout feature of the new scooter is the swappable battery platform, addressing a common concern in the electric scooter market. Users can quickly replace a depleted battery with a fully charged one, extending the scooter’s range and eliminating the dreaded “range anxiety.”

The Arma’s estimated range is between 7 and 9 miles on a single 3.5-Ah 36-V lithium battery. The battery powers a 250-W motor. The e-scooter is capable of hitting a top speed of 14.9 mph (24 km/h), striking a balance between efficiency and safety for short-distance urban commuting.

Pricing & Availability

Shimizu has launched a Kickstarter campaign to fund the refinement of the second prototype, with testing scheduled for early 2024. Early backers can secure the Arma at a 40% discount off the estimated retail price, making it an enticing opportunity for those eager to embrace the future of urban mobility.

RELATED: