I have seen EUCs grow from double-digit voltages to triple-digit and it seems like manufacturers don’t want to stop just yet.
The consequence? Heavier electric unicycles are coming day in and day out.
There is a reason why we call it “micro-mobility” whenever we get access to riding any electric ride.
Seriously, there is no point in owning an electric unicycle weighing above 150 lbs and with a 252V battery, when the overall specs could be achieved with something smaller and more portable.
Before I go on with providing reasons why I think so, I acknowledge that manufacturers opt for bigger voltage batteries since the low RPM motors used in EUCs have poor cooling, which negatively affects power. Typically, since high voltage doesn’t produce heat, manufacturers use high-voltage batteries to produce more power to hit higher specs.
Why Shouldn’t High Voltage Be The Primary Factor In New Performance Wheels?
To begin with, high voltage isn’t necessarily the only leading factor to high torque and power in general.
For instance, the Sherman S is a 100.8V EUC but when you compare it to a 120V+ EUC such as the Begode EX 30, you realize that the Sherman smokes it by all standards. Our point here is that it would be best to have more power for less energy use.
Secondly, the more voltage increases, the more there is a need to have bigger and heavier batteries. This generally means the overall weight of these wheels is higher, something most riders who fear weights don’t wish to battle.
Thirdly, higher-voltage rides are more expensive. For example, if an EUC comes with a 252V, a 300V mosfet controller would be the bare minimum. Such a controller is expensive and would drive the overall price to astronomical since other components such as the BMS would be beefier.
Most people find spending $5000 on an EUC to be daunting as evidenced by Veteran Sherman-L. For reference, that wheel is just 151V. How about if it were over 200V?
Where Should EUC Manufacturers Focus Their Efforts More On?
More Waterproofing
While the Begode A2 electric unicycle says it’s waterproof, we would love for more EUCs to focus on this feature.
One of the primary benefits of waterproofing is the protection it provides against rain, puddles, and splashes that riders may encounter. An electric unicycle that is not waterproofed can suffer from water damage, leading to malfunctioning electronics and costly repairs.
Waterproofing ensures that the internal components, such as the motor, battery, and control boards, remain dry and functional, even when riding in adverse weather conditions or wet environments. This allows riders to confidently use their unicycles in a variety of weather conditions without worrying about potential damage.
Again, waterproofing contributes significantly to the durability and longevity of electric unicycles. By preventing moisture from entering the device, waterproofing helps avoid corrosion and rust on metal components and electrical connections.
It’s also worth mentioning that most electric ride sellers don’t cover water damage under warranty, so, having a waterproof wheel will help you enjoy the longevity of your ride without worrying about replacing damaged parts.
Making Wheels More Durable
From a buyer’s perspective, durability equates to reliability and long-term value. When purchasing an EUC, customers expect a product that will withstand daily use and endure various environmental conditions. Durable EUCs meet these expectations, providing users with a sense of confidence and peace of mind.
For manufacturers, developing durable EUCs is an investment in brand reputation and customer loyalty. By prioritizing durability, companies can distinguish themselves from competitors, establishing a reputation for quality and reliability. This distinction is crucial in a market where innovation and differentiation drive consumer choice.
Durability in EUCs contributes to environmental sustainability by reducing waste and conserving resources.
Longer-lasting products mean fewer items end up in landfills, decreasing the environmental footprint of both manufacturers and consumers. This aspect aligns with the growing demand for eco-friendly products, allowing manufacturers to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.
Instead of focusing too much on high voltage, how about making great-spec EUCs that are more durable than what we see in the market today? It’s a win-win for the manufacturer and the buyer.
More Advanced Safety Features
Since electric unicycles don’t come with traditional brakes, their regenerative braking system could be improved further to make the stopping power more efficient without leaning back too much, especially for High-Speed Motor EUCs.
Adaptive headlights would also help nighttime riders big time.
These headlights automatically adjust the beam angle and intensity based on the speed and direction of the EUC. By providing optimal illumination in various conditions, adaptive headlights help riders navigate safely during nighttime or low-light conditions.
Since most of us ride in car traffic, having turn signal lights and motor-cycle-grade LED lights would help big time.
New wheels should be able to tilt back as they beep should riders overlean them. This should actually be the new industry standard.
We hope we will see wireless aerial charging in some EUC models in the foreseeable future, too. That could help avoid fire outbreaks and add more to convenience.
More Categories Of EUCs
Just like there are different categories of say motorcycles, EUC enthusiasts would appreciate it if we had more categories of these electric rides.
As of the moment, most EUC dealers categorize these rides based on if they have suspension or not.
However, how about coming up with categories such as dirt, long-range, adventure, street, offroad, and hill-climb EUCs? That would rock!
Portability
Most high-spec EUCs are bulky, and one of the leading reasons for that is those massive high-voltage battery packs.
If manufacturers would come with powerful, durable, yet more portable rides, that would be perfect for most users.
Most would love to be able to lift their EUCs to their car trunks or upstairs unassisted, and manufacturers ought to focus on those. Not too much on the most vocal veterans who want to keep getting faster and higher-voltage rides.
We would also appreciate it if any new early batch rides feature the hydraulic suspension type.
Any Futuristic Rides That Don’t Focus Too Much On Voltage?
We find the Veteran Lynx and the Sherman-L showing too much for the future.
While they aren’t the most affordable rides out there, they are lighter than most of their competitors and with great safety and overall specs.