Science and technology at work

[slang]

I was just looking at Amazon.com for a book and found an ad that was interesting. The ad shows that little personal vehicle that was first released to the public last year. At that time they were calling it "it". Now it has been officially named the<a href="http://www.segway.com"> Segway.</a> It is a very small platform with some high tech features that allows people to ride it for short distances instead of walking, biking or driving.

The general public may not be very excited about the price at this time, but I see a great deal of potential for it. As the price falls, more advances in the battery recharge life and overall speed should increase as it gains popularity. The effective environment is limited at this time, I agree. For short trips around town though, this hits the mark. Would I pay $5000 for a glorified skateboard to take short trips when I don't need to carry anything? No, but I would pay $1500 or $2000. Especially when you don't need gas, insurance, and registration fees to use it. It wouldnt be my first choice in winter or rain either, but I think many people would use them as the conditions allow. Liberal city dwellers should also find this a bargain considering the outrageous parking fees and threat of vandalism associated with parking a car.

The more I see of this Segway, the more fascinated I am by it. The design and operation are very simple, yet it uses computer systems to function. The wheels, chassis, batteries and the motors are all made from cutting edge manufacturing processes and materials to create a very compact and practical transporter. I want one. I dont give a damn if it's not sexy.

Would you buy and use one if they cost $2000. What do you see as the Segway's pros and cons?