Is the Future Electric on a Vectrix VX-3 Li+ scooter?

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With prices at $14,995, the Vectrix VX-3 Li+ scooter is a rather expensive scooter. It could be argued that the Vectrix VX-3 Li+ scooter is a cheap high-tech, fully-electric, three-wheeled transport too. If that’s the case, and given the high praise the Vectrix VX-3 Li+ scooter has garnered, it could be considered a premium electric vehicle for a reasonable price as well.

Let me explain.

The Vectrix VX-3 Li+ scooter is a premium vehicle before you even get to the electric motor. There are quite a few three wheeled scooters out there, I’ve even ridden one, a MC D50TKA, Sunny 50cc Three-Wheel Trike Scooter (which ran about $1,500) but the Vectrix VX-3 Li+ scooter is much larger and has high end components. Its hub-mounted motor puts out 21 kW at the motor shaft, makes 5.1 horsepower and an impressive 45 lbs-feet of torque.

Overall range runs between 50 to 80 miles and it can be fully recharged in under six hours.

There’s more to the Vectrix VX-3 Li+ scooter package, as it has: Three Brembo disc brakes, planetary gear drive, throttle reverse, regenerative breaking & accelerating, articulating front suspension, twin shocks, Pirelli tires and a host of electronic readouts that look more akin to high end motorcycles.

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“Once you’ve ridden the revolutionary three wheeled VECTRIX VX-3 Li+, you’ll understand. It’s the right mix of performance and stability, delivered at speeds up to 110 km/h (68 mph). The VX-3 Li+ offers an impressive range; it’s a both daily commuter and weekend fun machine. Using the VECTRIX™ “ELOC” electronic lock system, the VX-3 Li+ can be locked upright for speeds up to 8 km/h (5 mph) for low-speed balance and unlocked for true “motorcycle-like” riding. Just imagine—Good for the planet, easy-to-ride, and stable.” – – Vectrix Media

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I have to drive one for an honest opinion, but I am intrigued by the performance numbers. Obviously, any scooter costing nearly $15,000 has to be special (or, at least it better be), so the science has to be as good as advertised. If nothing else, the future for vehicles like the Vectrix VX-3 Li+ scooter seem bright.

Check out Roman’s video review of the Tesla Model S!

Easily amused by anything with four wheels, Nathan Adlen reviews vehicles from the cheapest to the most prestigious. Wrecking yards, dealer lots, garages, racetracks, professional automotive testing and automotive journalism - Nathan has experienced a wide range of the automotive spectrum.  His words, good humor and videos are enjoyed worldwide.
Easily amused by anything with four wheels, Nathan Adlen reviews vehicles from the cheapest to the most prestigious. Wrecking yards, dealer lots, garages, racetracks, professional automotive testing and automotive journalism – Nathan has experienced a wide range of the automotive spectrum. His words, good humor and videos are enjoyed worldwide.

Here are the specifications and performance numbers of the Vectrix VX-3 Li+ scooter:

0 to 50 mph: 8.25 seconds
Range: 50 to 80 miles
Batteries rated approximately 1,600 cycle charges (at 80%) for an estimated lifespan of 10 yrs or 50,000 miles
Peak power: 21 kW at the motor shaft
Power cord: On-board 3 meter/10 foot
Transmission: Planetary Gear Drive
Throttle: VECTRIX™
Regenerative Throttle Reverse
Locking storage and glove-box
12V Powerport
BrakesFront (2) + Rear (1) Disc
TiresPirelli GT 523 120/70-12 (F) Pirelli GT 524 140/60-13 (R)
Forks Articulating Front Suspension Shocks Sachs Twin Shocks
Battery: 42 Amp Hour 5.4 kWh LiFePO4 – 125V
Rear hub motor
Maximum Continuous Power: 5.1 HP (3.8 kW)
Maximum Torque: 65 Nm Maximum Continuous 45 lbs-feet
Warranty: 2-year unlimited mileage