Shimizu launches Arma – the world's most compact foldable e-scooter

Shimizu, a cutting-edge Japanese startup, is revolutionising personal transportation with their groundbreaking creation, Arma. This innovative foldable e-scooter ingeniously collapses into the size of a 12 or 13-inch laptop, providing users with the utmost convenience of effortlessly storing it in their backpacks. Additionally, users have the option to carry it using the top handle, transforming the e-scooter into a portable companion resembling a toolbox.

Even though it is still in the prototyping stage, Shimizu maintains confidence in overcoming the significant physics challenges associated with their foldable model. The concept behind Arma envisions a compact and portable design, folding into a frame roughly the size of an A4 paper and being smaller than a 14-inch laptop.

Shimizu aims for the final weight of around 10 pounds, with a successful prototype potentially claiming the title of the world's smallest and lightest e-scooter, according to the startup. The design team is also exploring the possibility of a seamless transition from carry to ride mode in approximately 30 seconds, a feature that requires a meticulous approach to the hinge and locking system, as showcased in the prototype video released by Shimizu.

Shimizu's upcoming electric scooter model, Arma, will feature swappable batteries for increased convenience and flexibility. With a USB Type-C charging port, Arma is expected to fully recharge in just two hours, providing an impressive range of up to 15 kilometers on a single charge. While the exact material composition of Arma remains undisclosed, the silver tone suggests the possible use of lightweight aluminum, potentially making this foldable e-scooter lighter compared to traditional steel models.

Arma's first prototype was showcased at the Japan Mobility Show 2023. Currently, the design team is working on the second prototype, planning to unveil the final design by the end of 2023. With testing of the second prototype scheduled for the first quarter of 2024 and mass production in the second quarter, the first batches are expected to ship in the third quarter of the year.

Pictures: Shimizu