What caused the increase in popularity of electric scooters? Recently, electric motor and battery technology has advanced tremendously. Today's LEVs (Light Electric Vehicles) have clear advantages over fossil fuel powered vehicles in the areas of performance, simplicity and operating costs.

"Green is in" ... a lot of people have grown to be environmentally-friendly these days. You can say that it has become trendy and chic traveling in these "green" modes of transportationelectric off-road scooter.

Pollution free ... Because electric vehicles operate on batteries and do not burn fossil fuels as their main system of propulsion, they supply the ability to cut back your own personal environmental impact and improve local air quality.

Quiet ... There's nothing much better than cruising down the streets and the only thing you hear could be the wind blowing in the air. Electric motors are quiet and give you an entirely different feeling when riding. Many gas-powered personal vehicles are louder than lawn-mowers. Quiet electric vehicles appear to glide down the road effortlessly and are welcomed in many communities.

Whatever your reason might be for choosing to buy a power scooter, I have compiled a listing that you may find helpful in narrowing down your choices. In no particular order, the very best 10 electric scooters are:

1. Vectrix Maxi-Scooter VECTRIX could be the acronym for: Vehicle, Electronic, Commuter, Transformation, Revolution, Innovation, X factor, and was started by several engineers. The big news this is actually the nickel metal hydride battery, because with any electric vehicle, it's only just like the battery inside. The V1 model ($11,000) is currently for sale in a two-wheeled scooter in place of the three-wheeled V3 model (which won't be available until later in 2010 and will soon be coming in at $15,000). The V3 has two wheels mounted in leading for better handling and stability. Sophisticated design advancements of the sharp, striking Vectrix add a high-efficiency gearbox and drive train, aluminum construction for weight reduction and aerodynamic styling to cut back drag. A low center of gravity, stiff frame and even weight distribution provide superior handling. The Vectrix is virtually silent and highly efficient-a patented regenerative braking system redirects energy back in the Vectrix power supply, which supports to extend its range by as much as 12 percent. For consumers with urban commutes, Vectrix is both convenient and cost effective. The driver can stop and choose one hand by simply twisting the throttle back for acceleration and twisting it forward to decrease smoothly and safely. Fast acceleration and handling allow it to be easy and safe to zip in and out of traffic. Plus, an onboard charger plugs directly into any standard 110/220V electrical outlet to charge the power supply in only two hours. Options that come with the Vectrix Maxi-Scooter include: - goes 0 to 50 mph in 6.8 seconds - top speed of 62 mph - range of 70 miles about the same charge We believe the Vectrix electric scooter could be the wave into the future and will revolutionize the electric scooter industry. Vectrix was named as one of MSN's bikes of the season in 2007. Designed with looks in mind, the Vectrix is responsive, good-looking, reliable and fun to ride.
2. Go-Ped ESR 750 The Go-Ped ESR family consists of these models: ESR 750, ESR 750EX and ESR 750H. The Go-Ped ESR750 simply is in a class of its own and no scooter available in the market comes close to its build quality, power, performance and stylish design. Its durability, reliability and impeccable performance without compromising on any details makes it one fo the very best electric scooters. Not forgetting it is an eco-friendly alternative mode of transportation as well. The ESR750 is the most leading edge, reliable and versatile electric scooter available in the market today. The Go-Ped ESR750 EX is equipped with larger sealed lead acid batteries, which deliver an assortment increase of more than 50% over the standard ESR750 stock range and duration. The ESR750EX will provide users with an impressive 12+ mile range in Economy mode - a premier speed of 12 mph - and as much as an 8 mile range in Turbo Mode, which allows users to attain a premier speed of 20 mph. It is great for Electric enthusiasts and scooterists trying to find a power scooter with an excellent range. Along with it's unmatched power, reliability and performance, it is compact and easy to carry. The Go-Ped ESR750H Hoverboard electric scooter is on the basis of the highly regarded and award winning GoPed ESR750EX , but incorporating the amazing Cantilevered Independent Dynamic Linkless Indespension (C.I.D.L.I.) suspension system featured on their highly successful off road products including the Trail Ripper and Riot mini motorcycle. This two wheeled sensation will quietly, efficiently and effortlessly move riders as high as 400 lbs above the bottom with the sensation as though they certainly were magically levitating on a cloud. The ESR750H Hoverboard offers 2.7" of suspension travel in leading and 3.5" of suspension travel in the rear. This hover system is adjustable from "plush to firm" to allow for and suit all rider preferences.
3. HCF 737 Pacelite The HCF 737 Pacelite Electric Scooter is just a long-lived, well-built scooter. That is one of the few electric scooters that powers up quickly from a complete stop, then can accept hills without hesitation. The HCF 737 Pacelite is a superb commuter scooter, folding up for quick storage and transport. Given its speed, power, weight and reliability, the beginner and experienced rider can appreciate its performance. It is just a very light scooter - only 59 pounds with the battery, and will easily fit in the trunk of one's car. Traveling at a premier speed of 15mph, the HCF 737 Electric Scooter should go distances as high as 12 miles on a charge. Adjustable handlebars enable you to customize your ride for maximum comfort. And the removable seat and folding frame lets you take this electric scooter practically anywhere you want. That is one of the few electric scooters that gives full front and rear suspension for an easy ride no real matter what the terrain.
4. Zapino Electric Scooter ZAP could be the acronym for: Zero Air Pollution and they recently introduced their new Zapino electric scooter electric off-road scooter. Not just economical and eco-friendly, the Zapino is powerful with an advanced 3000-watt brushless DC hub motor, ideal for city commuting. Able to attain speeds of 30 mph, the Zapino will have a way to steadfastly keep up with city traffic without adding to city pollution. The rear wheel hub motor on the Zapino creates more room aboard for extra batteries and performance. This creative drive system eliminates the necessity for belts or chains lowering it's overall maintenance. In addition, it delivers a more fulfilling ride because it is practically silent. It accelerates smoothly without any shifting and has no engine vibration - just good, eco-friendly clean fun. There's an optional upgrade, with Lithium batteries, that will boost the product range up to a very respectable 65 miles from the 30 miles that can come from the standard batteries.
5. Forsen Hummer The Forsen Hummer is the initial compact scooter available to offer room for 2 riders. These scooters are created for older teens and adults who would like reliable short-to-medium range transportation that is not limited by hills. The Forsen scooter is street legal and complies with USA DOT guidelines (headlight, brake light, and turn signals). The Forsen Hummer is just a heavy duty electric scooter capable of traveling at 28-33 mph with a selection of 25 miles for a 175-lb. rider. With it's 1000-watt motor coupled with 100-amp controller, this scooter really are designed for two riders (total weight of 350 lbs.) without any problem. Range of 25 miles comes via a 24V/40Ah battery supply which will be 3-4 times bigger than most scooters. Easily handles most off road conditions. Features include full suspension, front disk brake, flat-proof tires, and a quick battery charger (4 hours or less).