Segway makes its Brunei debut
By Maya Salleh

The Segway HT (Human Transporter), which originated from the United States, made its debut in the country yesterday as it undoubtedly gave new meaning to mobility.

The US Embassy in conjunction with SiS Technologies Pte Ltd, based in Singapore, demonstrated the unique functions and ability of the Human Transporter at a demonstration held yesterday at the Sheraton Utama Hotel in the capital.

Among those present were the US Ambassador, Gene B. Christy, Sheikh Jamaluddin Sheikh Mohammad, Director of Industrial Promotion and Tourism Development, senior officials of the Land Transport Department, as well as guests who included prominent business figures.

Mr. Lim Kia Hong, CEO of SiS Technologies Pte Ltd, said the Human Transporter was created to solve problems of urban pollution and congestion and its ease in manoeuvring is a bonus as it can be applicable to many areas such as security and commercial application, police and law enforcement, airports, seaports or wharf security, building, compound security guards, military, naval or airbase patrol, parks and recreation areas, tourism, hotels and amusement parks, universities or corporate campus transportation usage, golf clubs and resorts, power plants or oil refineries, national parks or theme parks patrol, postal delivery services, medical emergency workers, as well as events and conventions application.

The Human Transporter is a truly innovative and clean form of transportation as it operates on a rechargeable battery, produces no emissions and eases mobility for many as it glides easily into elevators, restaurants, and shops. Since it is no wider than your shoulders, it 'parks' easily in a closet, under your desk at work, or outside like a bicycle.

The Segway HT manoeuvres around other people and objects the same way you do - it allows you to slow down, turn in a different direction or stop, all with simply movements of your body. To go forward, all you need to do is lean forward, lean to an upright position to slow down and stop and lean backwards to reverse.

The promotional retail price is US$4295 and US$4795 for the p series and i series respectively.

The difference between the two is that the p series is smaller, narrower and lighter and it can travel up to 16 km/hr, the battery life lasting up to 6.5-19 km on a single charge and it can accommodate a total payload of 96 kg including cargo.

Meanwhile, the i series can go up to 20 km/hr, the battery life lasts between 8-24 km on a single charge and it can easily carry a rider weighing up to 113 kg with a total payload of 118 kg including cargo.

The Human Transporter is used worldwide especially in major cities in the US, Tokyo, Paris and Singapore.

Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin