Small compact standing ride-type electric vehicle for shopping

We propose a small electric vehicle with a low-powered battery (7.2 V, ~2 Ah) for use by the elderly during shopping. Accordingly, we have fabricated small sitting position-type electric vehicles in previous projects. In this study, we developed a small compact standing position ride-type electric vehicle for easy shopping. This vehicle is expected to reduce the physical burden in the getting on-off motion. The vehicle's operation system is designed to facilitate easy use by the elderly. Steady running and repeated start-stop tests simulating the actual vehicle use were subsequently conducted. Power consumption on various kinds of acceleration time was also examined to determine a suitable acceleration-increasing method. The physical burden while getting on and off the vehicle was investigated. The vehicle runs a longer distance, is easier to use, and reduces physical burden compared to our previously developed vehicle. Moreover, it saves energy as the acceleration time lengthens.