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Tag Archives: vehicles

This R2-D2 Vespa Is Unfortunately Not For Sale

We wish we were clever enough to make all kinds of funny Star Wars references while writing about the above scooter, but sadly we were born creatively challenged. So instead of entertaining you while writing, we’re just going to flat out tell you… what you’re clearly able to see anyway. You’re looking at a Vespa that was lovingly modified to look a lot like R2-D2. Using “some meticulous cutting of adhesive vinyl”, the Vespa went from classic scooter to most awesome scooter this side of the galaxy (there… that’s a start…) We particularly like the suitcase on the back with stickers from other galaxies, far far away.

Want more pics? Hit the jump.

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The Gibbs Quadski Does 45mph On Land Or Water

This vehicle really looks like it should be in a Bond movie, or at the very least in some action flick with a spiffy chase. We think that being able to go 45mph on land or water, with nothing but a 4 second transition period gives the Gibbs Quadski some pretty serious cred. Powered by a BMW Motorrad K1300 engine, the Quadski is able to retract its wheels at the push of a button and give the rider the same level of performance in water than it does outside. Previous such vehicles have topped out at 10mph, which we agree is a ridiculous speed at which to have any kind of chase. Note however that as much as it looks like a AWD ride, it’s actually RWD. We’re not familiar enough with ATVs to know if that still qualifies it as a “quad”, but we’re not here to argue semantics. We can just tell you that if you want one, you’ll have to be ready to pay $40,000 when it goes on sale in November.

[ Product Page ] VIA [ Werd ]

iShoes Might Get You iKilled

iShoes

By Evan Ackerman

In general, I’m a fan of the idea of slapping engines on things that weren’t designed for them. And motorized roller skates sure sound brilliant… The iShoes are slick looking and have some reasonably impressive specs: top speed of 15 mph, hand controller, 5-7 mile range on electric batteries, large wheels for high speed stability, and they only weigh 8 pounds each. But then you see the promo video:

It’s more than just silly looking, I think the only way you could make something less graceful would be to put a few pairs of these on a moose (c’mon, just picture it). I guess it makes sense since these iShoes are only a prototype and not yet ready for market (although they will be), but I’d definitely recommend all kinds of safety equipment and a mastery of the old and busted non-motorized versions before you try out these bad boys at top speed. Oh, and unfortunately, they’re only available in men’s 8-12 and women’s 7-10, and I wear a men’s 13. Damn my giant freak feet, damn them!

[ iShoes ] VIA [ Gizmodo ]

Thursday Time Waster – Consumer Reports Crash Test Theater

Consumer Reports Crash Test Video Website (Image courtesy Consumer Reports)
By Andrew Liszewski

Car crash tests are not only fascinating to watch but they also help people select a safe vehicle and more importantly reinforce my theory that anything and everything looks cooler in slow motion. So after spending the last hour watching everything from BMWs to Jaguars getting smashed up I have to recommend checking out the Consumer Reports crash test theater if you’re in the need for a good time waster.

While not every car is posted as of yet there’s still a decent selection to choose from and the videos include both frontal offset and side impact tests in regular speed and slow motion. The site also lists the official Consumer Reports test results and scores for each of the crashed vehicles so if you’re in the market for a new ride this could be a good place to start looking.

You can watch the Consumer Reports crash test videos here.

[ Consumer Reports Crash Test Theater ] VIA [ Autoblog ]

Hybrid Scooter Gets 140 MPG

Piaggio Hybrid Scooter (image via Sci Fi Tech)
by Shane McGlaun

With all the focus on our environment over the last few years, hybrid cars have become a viable and popular form of transportation. Those preferring an open air method of travel will like the hybrid scooter from Piaggio.

This scooter is rated for up to 140 MPG and is powered by Piaggio’s HyS system combining a hybrid combustion engine with an electric one. With normal operation the high-efficiency combustion engine charges the electric unit. The electric unit provides more power during starts.

Three scooter models will be equipped with this system, the Vespa LX, Piaggio X8 and the three-wheel MP3 pictured here. The HyS system will also allow the scooters to run in emission-free mode for up to 12 miles. Sorry guys, the leather clad hottie isn’t included.

[ Piaggio ] VIA [ Sci Fi Tech ]