Security Utilizing Segways for Zero Emissions

Steve Lee

Thursday, August 07, 2008

With the escalating security concerns in China, this anti-terror team has been training on these specially-outfitted Segways to help keep everything under control at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games. And as brutal as these security officers may look, they have the best intentions in mind. While the officers combat terrorists and other would be law-breakers, the electric powered Segways under their feet produce zero emissions combating both rising fuel costs and pollution.

Unveiled first in 2001, the Segway in its current form is powered by lithium-ion batteries and can reach speeds of 12 mph. A special gyroscope that makes 100 adjustments per second keeps the unit balanced and stable even while firing a gun. Being battery powered, the Segway produces zero emissions.

The use of the Segway by Chinese security forces has many advantages for them. First off is the added mobility offered to officers in indoor and outdoor environments like at airports, the Olympic Village, and the various Olympic venues. Using the Segways instead of regular patrol cars saves on fuel costs and reduces air pollution. And a Segway offers hands free operation unlike a bike and is less intrusive than a mounted officer on a horse.

Both practical in a security sense and applying the "Green" theme of the 2008 Olympics, the Segway truly fits the bill. While the practicality of using them against terrorists has yet to be seen, certainly the Chinese have spent a considerable amount of time, money, and training to make it effective.

# comments about: "Security Utilizing Segways for Zero Emissions"

1. 8/9/2008 12:41:41 PM | Posted by: Richard Allen

Great way for seniors to get around the local neighborhood. Batteries are very expensive to replace. $1,700.00 is pretty steep for a fill up. Segways are great to ride. Local laws have not been a problem as the same rules for a motorized wheel chair are the same for the Segway. Built in charger works from the wall socket in the garage. Works as advertised. Learning curve is short for the average person. For kids it's a natural thing. Wish I could place a chip inside the unit to track it if stolen. I do need to announce my location to people when approaching from the rear. I ride such a quiet machine that it's easy to scare non riders. People see me and don't understand what I'm riding so I take extra care around people walking. I'm a proud Segway owner.

Security Utilizing Segways for Zero Emissions

# comments about: "Security Utilizing Segways for Zero Emissions"

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