"Rolls Royce" of electric scooters unveiled at show

This article was published by the Taiwan News on March 11, 2006. It features the Shoprider, a four-wheel, plug-and-ride single-seater that had been turning heads at the 19th Taipei International Cycle Show held at the Taipei World Trade Center from March 8 to 11.

The Shoprider was designed and manufactured by the Pihsiang Machinery Manufacturing Co. Ltd. based in northern Taiwan's Hsinchu County. Representatives of the company referred the electric bicycle as the "Rolls-Royce of electric-powered scooters". The company is one of the pioneers of Taiwan's thriving electric cycle and vehicle industry.

Shaped like a pod, the scooter is equipped with detachable side doors, an easy-to-operate wheel, and a built-in battery that could be fully charged in a couple of hours or so, depending on the charger. With a fully loaded battery, the scooter could run at a speed of 10 kilometers per hour for four hours.

The Shoprider is currently being exported to eight countries, most of which are in North America and Scandinavia. The scooter is ideal for elderly citizens who need to travel short distances, because the rider is fully protected by the scooter's pod-shaped shell from cold winds in winter. In summer, the doors can be removed to let the cool breeze in.

In addition to the Shoprider, Pihsiang is also developing bikes powered by environmentally friendly batteries that have a long cycle life, high output, and fast-charging features. The company's latest bicycles are all equipped with portable or detachable battery cases. These bicycles can be fully recharged in 25 minutes to two-and-a-half hours, depending on the type of charger. Since the battery is portable, it can also be used at home as an emergency light in case of a power blackout. The bicycle's LED light can work continuously for three to six days. Most significantly, these bikes also feature a 10-stage self-adjustable and programmable controller, as well as tires with puncture protection and double-side reflectors.

Apart from Pihsiang, this article introduces other innovative products that attracted much attention at the Taipei International Cycle Show. These include bicycles that have a combination of three functions - a carrier bike, a normal bike and a push-chair; bicycle tires that are multi-functional and anti side-cut; bicycle seats that double as high-pressure air pumps; speed flat bar road bike derailleur systems; lightweight magnesium suspension forks; upgradable multifunctional bicycle lights; series pedals; and dual-direction bicycle pumps.

According to representatives from the Taiwan Bicycle Exporters' Association, while issues such as electric bike research and development and capturing new markets continue to important, it is vital for Taiwanese bicycle manufacturers to make brand-building a priority.