New Smartscooter Features Vending-Enabled Battery-Swapping Infrastructure

LAS VEGAS -- A two-wheeled electric vehicle is getting lots of attention at this year's Consumer Electronics Show. The Smartscooter from Gogoro is supported by a battery-swapping infrastructure called the Gogoro Energy Network. The network can be deployed across a city to provide consumer access to portable power through GoStation vending machines.

"With the world's megacities at a tipping point in population density, pollution fallout and rapid expansion, it is essential that we reimagine the energy infrastructure and create a renewed mindset for change in tomorrow's urban generation," said Gogoro chief executive Horace Luke. "The Smartscooter and Gogoro Energy Network will capture the hearts of the next generation and become a catalyst for more efficient, cleaner and smarter energy choices in our cities."

The Smartscooter is the first vehicle to be integrated into the Gogoro Energy Network. The company said both will roll out in 2015.

The Gogoro iQ System puts the power of a personal computer in the Smartscooter, synchronizing wirelessly across the scooter, app, battery, GoStation and network. The app uses the Gogoro iQ System to find the closest GoStation, deliver detailed scooter diagnostics and track ride details.

Riders don't need to wait to refuel or recharge the Smartscooter. When a depleted battery needs to be swapped with a charged one, riders can make a six-second swap at any GoStation. Batteries can be reserved in advance, and a subscription-based payment model offers unlimited access to them.

If vehicle service is needed, the rider is immediately alerted, thanks to the Smartscooter's hyper-connectivity, by the Gogoro mobile app or at the GoStation when swapping batteries.

In October, Gogoro announced that it had raised $50 million in Series A funding when it started up in 2011, and is currently closing its Series B round of $100 million to commercialize and go to market in 2015.