What: The German eco-friendly electric cyber scooter

A new German startup is exploring a premium alternative in the electric scooter market, with the eco-friendly Naon.

When it comes to electric scooters, there are the poles apart. On one side, the invasion of Asian or entry-level models, and on the other, maxi-scooters like the BMW CE 04. In the middle of the category, there is room to carve out, which is what a new startup aspires to.

Naon, an eco-friendly cyberscooter?

Five Berlin friends had this idea in 2019 and founded the company Naon. After two years of development, the startup has unveiled its first working prototype. The result is unique—a scooter unlike any other on the market. To stand out, the 14-inch wheel scooter adopts a minimalist approach, the opposite of a RGNT motorcycle. It would fit well in a dystopian or cyberpunk production like Blade Runner 2049.

But we are in 2022, and this machine is very real. And especially in today’s environmentally conscious era. Beyond its electric propulsion, Naon aims to reduce its environmental footprint. It uses as few parts as possible, resistant to wear and tear over time.

For example, aluminum components are anodized for durability, the windscreen receiving a protective coating against abrasion and UV rays. Other parts are made from recycled plastic and are recyclable to support the scooter’s second life, while the leather is plant-based (cactus), and the grips come from used tires.

Removable batteries, for purchase or rent

Always with an ecological approach, the Naon scooter features removable, and therefore interchangeable, batteries to stay current. The brand is studying two different offers, one for traditional purchase, and another for battery rental, similar to Gogoro and Yamaha models in Taiwan or Zeway in Paris.

In terms of motorization, the Naon is quite standard. It delivers 7 kW of continuous power (10 kW at peak) and 200 Nm of torque. It can carry 2 people for up to 70 kilometers with one battery, or even 140 km with a second pack (each 2.4 kWh). Charging takes about 1.5 hours on a standard outlet.

The startup mentions two different versions, one L1e limited to 45 km/h to comply with the AM license from age 14, and L3e capable of reaching 100 km/h. For both variants, Naon aims for a price of €4,920 and €6,420, excluding the battery. Buying it will cost €1,000, or €25/month for rental (meaning about 3 years and 5 months to recoup the investment).

The release date remains unknown. Expectations are probably set for 2023 for the initial deliveries of the scooter.

Read also: Niu MQi GT EVO: the electric scooter is stepping up its game