Modern urban small vehicles belonging to the class of electric skateboards do not allow to reach the speed above 32 km/h, which causes difficulties when moving around the city, where the average speed is about 50 km/h. The new Speedboard will allow you to travel comfortably at a speed of about 48 km/h, without interfering with cars, motorcycles and cyclists.
The hereditary mechanical engineer David Jackson, who developed the Speedboard, first of all changed the kinetic scheme of the skateboard, installing two wheels instead of the usual 4 wheels. The patented front wheel control system consists of a spring-loaded linkage that allows you to change the direction of movement when tilting the body (the turning radius of only 2.4 meters).
Kenda pneumatic tires with a diameter of 10.3 inches are installed on the wheels, which increases cross-country performance and provides a comfortable off-road ride. A 4000 W (5.36 hp) electric motor is located at the back of the board. The motor is connected to the wheel using a chain transmission that ensures reliability, safety and a long operating time.
The engine torque is transmitted to the 9-tooth wheel, which drives the “sprocket” of the rear wheel with 70 teeth, using a steel chain. The engine speed control is carried out using a convenient remote control equipped with a pistol grip.
The electric motor is powered by a block of lithium-ion batteries located inside the board. Depending on the terrain and speed limit, you can drive 25 to 40 km on a single battery charge. The maximum carrying capacity of the Speedboard is 113 kg (250 lbs), while the skateboard itself has the weight of up to 12 kg.
The cost of the device on the Kickstarter platform is $1,999 together with a Triple8 reflective helmet. During the first three hours of fundraising, the minimum amount for the start of the project was received at the site, which gives us hope that the first Speedboards will be launched on the roads by May 2020.