Xiaomi brings Segway to the masses with $315 Ninebot mini

Xiaomi on Monday launched its first two-wheeled, self-balancing, and battery-powered electric vehicle, named Ninebot mini.

The all new Ninebot mini scooter marks Xiaomi's entry into the two-wheeled segment and has been developed in collaboration with Chinese transportation robotics firm Ninebot, which also owns Segway, a US company.

Announcing the new product, Xiaomi said, "Xiaomi invested in Ninebot a year ago and Ninebot announced its acquisition of Segway this April. We all know that Ninebot and Segway are the giants in the scooter field. And this one, Ninebot mini, is tailored for Mi fans."

Priced at CNY 1,999 (approximately Rs. 20,500), Xiaomi notes that the Ninebot mini two-wheel self-balancing scooter has been built by aerospace-grade magnesium alloy infrastructure and weighs just 12.8 kilograms. The device packs batteries that Xiaomi claims can last up to 22 kilometres on a single charge. The Ninebot mini can run at speeds of up to 16 km/h and can even climb 15-degree inclines. The two-wheeled Ninebot mini can also be controlled via smartphone app, which will allow users to see speedometer, preferences, traffic data, fault detection, and firmware upgrade.

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Xiaomi explains that the two-wheel self-balancing scooter can steered using legs, and can spin on the spot. The Ninebot mini will be available in Black and White colours.

Apart from Ninebot mini, Xiaomi also launched its brand new Mi TV 3, priced at CNY 4,999 (approximately Rs. 51,000). It will be going on sale in China starting November 3.