Automotive

Lenovo M2 Electric Scooter review: Your new, city best friend

Also a smart, sustainable solution

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Technology has been progressing as fast as ever, and presently, it has propelled us to a new and smarter way of living. The global pandemic ushered a barrage of changes on countless fronts, and right now, the future is uncertain. Only one thing is certain: we’re all affected.

Lenovo hopped in with a golden opportunity to propose a smarter way to commute. Befitting the age of physical distancing; this solution doesn’t need anyone else but you when going for a ride.

Meet the Lenovo M2 Electric Scooter — mankind’s new best friend probably in 2021 and beyond.

Come, ride with us

The Lenovo M2 Electric Scooter, M2 or e-scooter for brevity, is the company’s first-generation flagship electric scooter. Launched in 2020, the electric scooter is the ideal solution to short-distance travel. It mixes convenience, comfortability, reliability, and security while crowding the device with smart features essential for a long lifespan.

Forget cars and motorcycles for a while, this electric scooter rightfully ticks all the right boxes for it to become your next road partner, especially for your quick errands.

Your big step towards building a sustainable future

First things first, an electric scooter is a sustainable form of mobility. E-scooters, like electric vehicles, are constructed without a tailpipe.

You don’t need to use gasoline and fossil fuels, therefore, you won’t be adding to pollution with carbon emissions. Except for iron particles and brake dust caused by braking. But that’s for another story.

As someone who dreams of a green, sustainable future and living in a smart city, riding the M2 felt like a step forward towards that dream. Going electric is possibly one of the greenest decisions we can make to save the environment. But will it last for a long time? It just might.

Constructed with you in mind

The M2 was engineered with a portable foldable design using strong yet light components, such as magnesium and aluminum alloy which were commonly used in aeronautics.

It employs a folding shackle that’s stable and durable, but easy to open and fold. You just need to apply pressure upwards to open the shackle.

When you successfully open the shackle, hold the vertical rod and fold it gently lest the wheel rolls and you end up dropping the e-scooter.

It has a stand, in case you need support for the e-scooter.

This is how it looks when folded.

Make sure to lock the shackle before carrying the folded M2 for safety purposes. In one of my brain-not-engaged moments, I forgot to lock the shackle and lifted the e-scooter, only to find it hitting my legs. It hurt like hell.

The M2 weighs only 15kg, which would’ve been a piece of cake if you’re a serious lifter. My current threshold for both arms ranges from 25kg to 30kg when lifting plates.

Carrying the electric scooter at first wasn’t challenging, that is if you’re just standing. When I brought it home while taking the stairs, I found myself huffing and puffing which signified two things: either I need to build more strength or the e-scooter was just too heavy for me to lift.

You’re guaranteed not to fall

Aside from assembling strong components for its frames, Lenovo devised a system to secure the safety of its users. First, it has a triple braking system — electronic brake, disc brake, and pedal-braking system — ensuring a safe ride.

During my test drives, I had too many dumb moments where the braking system saved me from crashing into a wall, a lamppost, and from flying after riding a slope.

I don’t want to get into any more details since I’m too embarrassed but here’s a little secret: the e-scooter almost flew from my sudden use of the disc and pedal brake when I was riding it too fast. Special thanks to all the engineers that helped save my life and my wallet.

Anyhoo, this e-scooter also comes with a triple-shock absorber design: a front-fork hydraulic shock absorber, a rear-wheel independent suspension shock absorber, and a thickness tire absorber. I was able to ride it smoothly even on rough surfaces and small speed bumps.

However, given that it has a low deck and small wheels, it isn’t advisable to ride the e-scooter on sunken, uneven, and muddy roads.

Nonetheless, the M2 assembled Honeycomb tires, providing stronger defense and prolonged wear life. It’s like a solid tire with air pockets, so you don’t have to worry about unknown debris puncturing your wheels. It won’t go flat. Think: Michelin’s airless (non-pneumatic) tires.

Unlike solid tires, Honeycomb tires aim to deliver a smoother experience. All without the hassle of changing them frequently, just like what you do with pneumatic tires.

It’s also more resilient and robust compared to other tires, supporting the M2’s strength and stability, and bearing weight up to 120KG of load capacity. Balancing yourself on the Lenovo M2 electric scooter can be a child’s play. But it also requires proper coordination.

Engineered for the adventurous and highly-independent (singles?)

Navigating the e-scooter at first was dumbfounding. I’m not the type who reads manuals and instead, proceeds with trying something and figuring it out along the way. And learning after making a mistake.

For the most part, I figured things out easily until I had questions in my mind that needed some answers. That’s when I had to pull the manual to make sure I’m doing it right.

Our Managing Editor even tried navigating the e-scooter and found himself struggling to balance and maneuver it. He was able to adapt quickly after a few tries, but he proclaimed he would rather use a bike.

(Editor’s Note: “Adapt Quickly” is a stretch. The editor has terrible balance).

Even so, the e-scooter astounded people like me, a highly-independent single lad wanting to head over a destination without relying on anyone else to drive from Point A to Point B.

 

It was from that moment I realized, I loved my singlehood terribly. I have the ability to decide wherever I want to go, without considering anyone else’s thoughts and opinions. And I can decide whether to move forward at my own pace, or as fast as I could.

Ride it for as long as you like

Lenovo crowded the M2 with intelligent and innovative technology. You can shift gears and monitor your speed which you can preview on the LED display found on the bar.

You can also connect the e-scooter via Bluetooth on Lenovo’s mobile app for connectivity and additional security.

When paired, you can use it to adjust and control your e-scooter through various functions, as well as check the power available to ensure you won’t run out of battery.

And if you run out of juice, you can charge it fairly quickly for three to four hours — faster than competing scooters which takes at least five hours to fully charge.

If you’re afraid of fast-charging technology, fret not. The M2 is equipped with an intelligent battery management system so it has protection against short circuits, over-currents, overcharges, over-discharges, and temperature anomalies.

The deck where the 18,650 lithium battery is stored.

Although, the distance I traveled wasn’t enough to fully consume its 18,650 lithium battery. The M2 has a powerful 350W motor and a 7.5Ah high-capacity battery and can reach up to 25km/h (supposedly) and travels up to 30km.

If you’re asking if that is the battery’s mileage, yes it is. That power alone is enough to give you a 30km ride, which means you can travel back and forth to your office from your home easily.

Forward… always forward

As mentioned, it can reach up to 25km/h supposedly. Since I live on the far east side of the Metro, I had the opportunity to test the e-scooter on slopes and open roads without distractions.

Shot on the Xiaomi Mi 10T Pro

In my experience, the maximum speed for the first gear was 7km/h; 18km/h for the second gear; and 28km/h for the third gear. I was speeding and I didn’t have trouble maneuvering the e-scooter even on slopes and asphalt roads. I just enjoyed the cool breeze hitting my face. Thank heavens, I really didn’t fly.

I also used it while there was a drizzle. I wasn’t afraid to test it out in the rain since it has an IP54 rating. In other words, it has decent protection against dust and water spray. My only warning: never ride when the roads are slippery to avoid any accidents. I tried using it down on a 60-degree slope and I sped up uncontrollably.

I’m not an Aries nor a Sagittarius, but I was really impulsive, daring, and reckless at that time. Not gonna lie, “I live my life on the edge” was my motto a few years ago and it seemed like the daredevil awakened that day.

Speaking of angles, the e-scooter won’t have any trouble riding and turning on a 15-degree slope. My mistake last time was hastily sliding down a 60-degree slope and having a hard time building momentum to go up.

Apparently, the e-scooter wasn’t supposed to be able to handle anything beyond a 15-degree slope. It was the maximum climbing angle and I tried to push it beyond its limits. Well, you’ll never know if you never try, right?

Is this your GadgetMatch?

If you’re looking for a smarter way to commute, lessen carbon emissions, and travel without adding up to the never-ending bumper-to-bumper traffic, the Lenovo M2 E-Scooter is the way to go. It has everything you need for your short-distance travels within your neighborhood, going to work, or for your errands in the city.

This e-scooter might be a first-generation product, but it doesn’t disappoint. It can be the first step you can take towards a sustainable, greener future, and the first step towards living a smart, connected lifestyle. Just remember: Wear your helmet when riding the e-scooter for safety and security. The Lenovo M2 Electric Scooter is available in black and retails for PhP 19,995.

From March 18 to 27, 2021, the Lenovo M2 E-Scooter is available for pre-order for only PhP 16,995 as part of its launch promotion. You can also get a free bundle of a Herschel Gibson Messenger bag and a Lenovo Trackpods exclusively on the Lazada app.

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Automotive

Next-Gen Ford Territory: Free service package, cash discounts

Plus a PhP 20,000 discount

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April 2, 2024

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To celebrate the first year of the Next-Gen Ford Territory, Ford Philippines is offering an exclusive service package for new owners of the five-seater SUV.

The Territory 5-Star Care Package will be available for all customers getting the Next-Gen Ford Territory Titanium from April 1 to 30.

On top of a standard 5-year warranty, the package is inclusive of a 5-year scheduled service plan (SSP) and 5-year emergency roadside assistance.

What’s great about the SSP is that it is a prepaid plan, so customers won’t have to shell out more funds from future parts or labor price increases on their periodic maintenance service.

Ford’s emergency roadside assistance, meanwhile, covers 24/7 support, nationwide towing coverage, minor on-site repairs, and other services.

The Titanium model starts at PhP 1,335,000 and is available in the Panther Black, Star White, Lustrous Gray, Ruby Red, and Blue Metallic color options.

The promo also comes with a PhP 20,000 cash discount. To avail, visit this link: Territory 5-Star Care

ALSO READ: Tracing roots across Manila with the Next-Gen Ford Territory

Next-Gen Ford Territory

One of the best-selling local SUVs today, the Next-Gen Ford Territory is crafted according to the highest global quality standards. It features advanced technologies and added safety features.

Some of safety features that are definitely useful for local driving conditions include the following:

  • Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross-Traffic Alert
  • Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go Feature
  • Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking
  • Active Park Assist

The SUV also has a 360-degree camera to aid drivers with their trips. For comfort and convenience especially for long rides, the vehicle has wireless charging and wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto.

Under the hood, the Territory boasts of a EcoBoost 1.5L engine. It has a 7-speed automatic transmission aided by Ford’s wet-type Dual Clutch engagement system. This system allows for easy acceleration and improved fuel efficiency.

Additionally, the Territory has four driving modes: Eco, Normal, Sport, and Mountain. These help drivers to tailor the driving experience depending on the scenario.

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Tracing roots across Manila with the Next-Gen Ford Territory

Sometimes, you have to look back to enjoy the present and get excited about the future.

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April 2, 2024

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Ford Territory

“He who does not look back from where he came will never reach his destination.”

That’s a Filipino proverb I kept hearing while I was growing up. Nearly three decades later, I started learning what that proverb really meant.

We have to look back in order to move forward. At least, that was one of my takeaways when Ford Philippines invited us to drive the Next-Gen Ford Territory and reimagine the way we tour our cities.

Along with media folks and members of the Ford Territory Club Philippines, we hopped between places that honor the roots of our heritage and culture.

The cars that Filipino presidents used

I was never fond of visiting museums. But there was something alluring in seeing pieces of history and knowing how it all contributed to the present we live in.

Our first stop was the Presidential Car Museum housing the old cars used by the former Philippine Presidents. It is located within the Quezon Memorial Circle in Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines.

Inside, you can stumble upon the 1941 Packard 180 that both former President Jose P. Laurel and Sergio Osmena used. Former Presidents Roxas, Magsaysay, and Macapagal trusted a Cadillac, while Quirino used a Chrysler Crown Imperial.

 

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Former President Ferdinand Marcos’ Lincoln Continental Mark VI grabbed our attention, along with his First Lady’s car — an opulent Rolls Royce Phantom — which is a testament to the opulence and excessive grandeur they exhibited during their reign.

Meanwhile, Aquino up until Arroyo, the former presidents after Marcos Sr.’s regime have used a humbling yet trustworthy Mercedes-Benz instead.

Touring in the museum lit a fire inside that I didn’t know still existed. I thought I was already apolitical, but hearing the stories and reasonings behind the choice of presidential car sparked the angst I’ve long buried.

And if you’re that curious, it’s best to pay a visit to the museum. Maybe you can have a different perspective.

The Presidential Car Museum is open for public viewing between 9AM to 4PM on Tuesdays to Sundays.

Crafts, textiles, and the old script

After our active parking session at the Quezon Memorial Circle and relying on Adaptive Cruise Control while driving through the Skyway, I took the wheels as we approached the City of Manila and its never-ending stoplights.

I may hate Manila’s busy streets and traffic jams, but I know I’m well-equipped to navigate its roads (and find a way to overtake between humongous trucks) as we find our way to the National Museum of Anthropology.

Nestled beside the walled city of Intramuros, the museum found itself on a sweet, easy spot for city-dwellers, park visitors, and foreigners touring the historical city. It was easy to locate, which makes it inviting to a lot of visitors.

Ford Territory

Inside, I was mesmerized by artifacts showcasing the chronicles of living in the Philippines — even from pre-historic times. I had a marvelous time staring at battle axes and bolos. I was incredibly drawn! Maybe, just maybe, I was a warrior in my past life.

We also took some time exploring the “Hibla ng Lahing Filipino Gallery” which exhibits the traditional textiles created and worn across the Philippines.

On the next room beside the textile gallery, you’ll find the Baybayin Gallery, which was completed in 2014. The gallery houses the old writing systems used by ancient Filipinos, as well as the continued tradition of writing syllabic scripts.

Ford Territory

The National Museum of Anthropology is located in the Agrifina Circle, Rizal Park adjacent to the National Museum of Fine Arts building. It’s open from 9AM to 6PM on Tuesdays to Sundays.

Living like an Ilustrado

Our last stop for the day was Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in Quezon City. It’s a more accessible space housing replicas of famed Spanish-Filipino houses.

Originally, you can find it in Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar where almost 40 Spanish-Filipino Colonial structures were collected and restored to showcase the heritage of the Philippines.

Upon entering, you’ll be transported back in time — as if you’re back in the 18th century. It wasn’t my first visit, though, as I’ve already tried to play like an Ilustrado a few years back.

The place isn’t just offering a heritage tour, but also an Italian restaurant, a cafe, garden, and banquet hall.

It’s a fine way to experience dining in a Spanish stone house at the 2-storey replica of Casa Monroy, while looking at the beauty of St. Joseph Chapel brimming with intricate brick and woodworks.

Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar in Quezon City is located at 134 Roosevelt Avenue, San Francisco Del Monte, Quezon City, Philippines 1105. It’s open from 11AM to 9PM.

One step forward, three steps back

As the day ends, we drove back to Quezon Memorial Circle where we started. It was bewildering to bridge everything that happened — from looking back to learning how to appreciate the present, and becoming excited to what the future holds.

These were just my thoughts as we navigate the dimly lit roads with the help of the Next-Gen Ford Territory. We progressed so much that we’re enjoying a vehicle that can keep us comfortable in long rides. Imagine if we still have to travel by foot or by riding a calesa!

Ford Territory

The museum-hopping tour around Manila made me appreciate riding a smart, safe, and feature-packed vehicle. It gives me the peace of mind needed to explore a vibrant, busy city.

For your peace of mind

Customers who purchase the Next-Gen Ford Territory will receive a complimentary Peace of Mind service package. This includes free inspection that can be availed within 2 months of 2,000 kms (whichever comes first). You also get two (2) free labor on periodic maintenance schedule (PMS) services.

This is on top of the 5-year warranty — ensuring a worry-free ownership experiences.

Customers can visit any Ford dealership to get more information on the available 5-year scheduled service plan (SSP) and a 5-year emergency roadside assistance with a Territory purchase.

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Nissan launches Note e-Power in Singapore

Start your journey on the right note

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March 22, 2024

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Nissan Note E Power

In 2020, Nissan unveiled the Kicks e-Power, which the car manufacturer touted as not just one’s conventional hybrid vehicle. Four years after, Nissan is back with a new fully electric motor-driven offering released in Singapore: the Nissan Note e-Power.

The successor to Kicks e-Power, the Note e-Power also harnesses Nissan’s second generation e-Power technology. The electrified hatchback uses fuel to power its electric motor. This motor then drives the car for a smoother, quieter, and more efficient run each time, minus the need for charging.

Price, availability

The Note e-Power dons a simplistic Japanese hatchback look with a more curved roof compared to typical SUV designs. This is accentuated by a signature V grille and slim-line headlights.

The car is available in Vivid Blue/Black Star (two-tone), Opera Mauve/Black Star (two-tone), Brilliant Silver, Dark Metal Grey, and Burgundy Red. It is available for booking starting at SG$ 143,800 until 12 noon of April 3.

Customers shall also get a 10-year lithium-ion battery warranty and five-year unlimited mileage vehicle warranty.

Enhanced safety features

The Note e-Power comes packed with enhanced safety features. For the first time on a Nissan vehicle, a 1,470 MPa ultra-high tensile steel has been adopted in the vehicle chassis. This contributes to weight reduction and improved passive safety performance.

To aid drivers throughout their rides, the car also comes with intelligent systems, such as:

  • Intelligent Emergency Braking
  • Intelligent Lane Intervention
  • Intelligent Rearview Mirror
  • Intelligent Trace Control
  • Intelligent Forward Collision Warning
  • Intelligent Driver Alertness
  • High Beam Assist
  • Electronic Parking Brake with Auto Hold

When parking, the system on dashboard shows the vehicle’s distance to an obstacle by green, yellow, and red indicators. Should they forget locking and unlocking, the car also automatically locks when the driver walks away, and unlocks when the driver approaches.

Futuristic interior

Inside, the Note e-Power has a Mizuhiki-themed dashboard for a modern and elegant appearance. On the driver side, there is a seven-inch display interface, an LCD monitor, and a USB Type C port. There is also a two-tier glovebox on the passenger side for ample storage.

In the middle, the gearshift sports a futuristic design that looks more like a mix of a jet plane’s center stick and a computer’s mouse, rather than a traditional knob. Furthermore, there is enough space to place a phone or wallet beside the gearshift.

The seats offer large armrests and plenty of leg room. At the back, the car has a spacious boot that can be expanded up to 670 liters when the rear seats are folded down.

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