News

Kiosks to dispense Segway transporters

April 25, 2005

The Press-Telegram: In metropolitan areas around the world some day, people might step from trains and buses, slide a credit card through a kiosk and zip to work at 12 mph on a human transporter.

The commuter of the future is the focus of Segway's new president and chief executive officer James D. Norrod, who sees cities like Long Beach as staging grounds on the path to his vision.

The units are available for rental at $45 an hour, or $125 for a half day.

Negotiations are under way with local restaurants to offer Segway renters discounts on meals, said store owner Barry Fulton, who plans to eventually set up kiosks around the area, including Belmont Shore, and near one of downtown's Metro Blue Line stations.

"It's fun, smart transportation," the 47-year-old Long Beach resident said. "Compare the cost of gas, the cost of parking, insurance, wear and tear on your car and the pain of going in and out of parking structures with leaning the Segway up the wall when you get to work. I think it will definitely revolutionize human transportation."

Click here to read the fully story.