Remembering the Electric Scooter Craze: What Were They Called?

As the world continued to evolve in terms of technology and innovation, one particular invention caught the attention of the masses a few years ago – the electric scooters that people stood on and zoomed around, navigating through tight corners and busy streets. But, what exactly were these nifty gadgets called? They were popularly known as 'hoverboards,' and they brought about a new wave in personal transportation. Let's take a trip down memory lane and revisit the story behind these peculiar contraptions.

The hoverboard, which is essentially a self-balancing scooter, first came into the limelight in 2013. It consists of two motorized wheels connected to a pair of articulating pads on which the rider places their feet. The rider controls the speed by leaning forward or backward, and changes the direction by twisting the pads. Hoverboards gained widespread popularity in 2015, thanks to celebrity endorsements and increasing demand for cutting-edge gadgets.

Many companies entered the hoverboard market, but none of them stood out as the sole inventor of the device. It has been a commonly shared design with improvements and alterations specific to each brand. Despite not actually hovering, the name 'hoverboard' stuck, likely due to the futuristic appearance and the illusion of levitation while riding it.

However, not all was smooth sailing for these trendy devices. They faced multiple challenges, including regulatory issues, safety concerns, and intellectual property disputes. In late 2015, several incidents of hoverboards catching fire or exploding while charging led to widespread safety fears. These incidents prompted investigations by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and ultimately resulted in the recall of over half a million hoverboards from various manufacturers.

Since then, safety standards and regulations have been enforced, and hoverboards have undergone evaluations to ensure they meet the appropriate safety requirements. Today, hoverboards continue to be popular recreational devices, albeit regulated and with proper safety measures in place.

Hoverboards, also known as self-balancing scooters, were indeed a defining part of the modern technological movement. They symbolized a new era in personal transportation and, despite a few hiccups, remain a fun and exciting gadget for many.