NIPPY ELECTRIC SOCO’S SO COOL
Fraser rides the Soco CU-X We all know the planet’s supplies of fossil fuels are dwindling – and while electric-powered vehicles may not be the complete answer to how we are going to get around in the future, they will certainly be an important part of it.
And already paving the EV way is Super Soco. The firm was formed in 2015 as the result of a $15million crowdfunding project alongside Australian electric scooter company Vmoto.
The model I am testing here is the CU-X.
This uses a 1.3KW Bosch motor, with a restricted top speed of 28mph. It’s the equivalent of a 50cc motorbike, which means it can be ridden by anyone with a car licence who passed their test before 2001, anyone with a full bike licence, and anyone aged over 16 who has passed a CBT course.
It’s powered by a 60V lithium battery which sits snugly under the seat.
To charge, simply plug it into a normal mains socket via the cable provided.
If you don’t have a garage with power, the battery has a handy handle so you can lift it out and carry it indoors. It’s sealed, clean and compact.
A full charge takes around seven hours and will give a range of about 40 miles.
This little scoot is not designed for long trips down the dual carriageway.
Rather it is for nipping around your town or city, or for a shortish commute to work or to the station.
The Soco looks pretty darn cool. The lines are sleek and smooth, the running lights have a stylish U design and the headlights are LED.
The rear lights and indicators have an unusual and eye-catching vertical layout and are also LED.
The snazzy digital instrument cluster adjusts to light conditions and the seat is pretty plush and long, which means you can easily find a comfortable position.
Hit the start button, twist and go.
Acceleration is surprisingly impressive – and completely silent, of course.
The town I live in is hilly, but the CU-X barely missed a beat on the inclines. There are three ride modes, which essentially adjust the power output and potential range.
Braking is perfectly adequate – providing you use front and rear together.
At this purchase price, and with running costs of less than €1 per 100 miles, this has to be one of the most economical – and fun – ways to nip around town. panel and battery Super Soco CU-X Bosch Instrument 1.3KW
84ft lb Red, grey, white, silver