As a former vintage Lambretta owner, I’m kind of a purist when it comes to scooters. I lean toward classic design styling, but I’m a realist and know the two stroke engines are horrid pollutants. I like the look of the current Vespa line. Piaggio has stayed true to their design heritage and you can easily make the visual connection between a 1950’s Prima Vera, and one of today’s bikes. With all that said, I know there is a need for a zero emissions scooter, and that means designing something that uses lightweight parts. It doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice on style though.

Be. e, combines sustainable design with updated styling that gives a nod to scooters of yesterday with out going to far. Be. e is a standout among current electric commuter motorcycles and scooters. The scoot is designed for urban and light countryside use. It’s not a speed demon, but it is as fast as most smaller displacement bikes with a top speed of about 30 mph thanks to it’s torquey electric motor. Be.e has a two hour battery capacity which is perfect for most commuter trips, and has a recharge time from a fully displaced battery of just 3 and a half hours.

Designed by Waarmakers for Van.eko, Be.e is available in black, brown, or a tasty pale green. It also features inlaid circles of brown and silver which look sort of like the number shields found on classic Cafe Racers. The body of the scooter is made from Natural Sustainable Fiber-reinforced Composites, including hemp and flax seeds, which are actually stronger than fiberglass and plastic used by most competitors. The plant based products are compressed in a solid hull shape that forms the rigid exterior and a frame.