This post is the first in a series of Olympics
“going green” blogs highlighting various high tech solutions being showcased by China in an attempt to improve energy efficiency and reduce air and water pollution. Today’s blog touches on one of the most controversial devices invented in the last decade.
The most controversial device invented in the last decade may very well be the Segway. The Segway PT is being used by both police and security agencies at the
Olympic Games. Some of the advantages being touted are:
- Improved view since the security officer is raised eight inches above the crowd;
- Less fatigue and much faster than walking;
- More manoeuvrable in a crowd than motorcycle , bicycle or automobile;
- Quick response in an emergency;
- Low operating cost;
- Zero emissions (electric charge).
The Segway has been very controversial since being unveiled in 2001. Depending on who you talk to the technology is “silly” or extremely useful. One thing is for certain is that the technology is wholeheartedly being adopted by various police and security forces.
How does the Segway stack up in terms of
greenhouse gas emissions?
- 82% reduction in greenhouse gases versus a Toyota Prius;
- 81% less greenhouse gases than a motorcycle;
- 71% less greenhouse gases than a motor scooter.
Of course critics will tell you that the Segway emits infinitely more greenhouse gases than a bicycle or walking. Oh well, you can’t please everyone. Why is all this important? This is important because the Olympics are the biggest showcase in the world. Let’s hope the Segway catches on with the Chinese population who live in
overcrowded cities with some of the highest smog levels in the world.
electric transportation
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