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If you’re between the ages of 25 to 50, the name “Razor scooter” likely brings with it a certain nostalgia, the flavor of which may depend on whether you associate it with the childhood freedom of cruising the neighborhood or the unforgettable sound of aluminum on ankle bone. But now both are possible again with a modern twist thanks to Razor’s introduction of an electric scooter based on its classic design. I’ve had some fun by riding, testing, and crashing the new Razor Icon electric scooter over the last few weeks, and now it’s time to tell you what I think.

The Razor Icon certainly does a good job capturing the iconic flair of the original Razor scooter from twenty-something years ago.

The shiny aluminum deck, colorful wheels, minimalist foot brake, and folding stem all harken back to the scooting days of yesteryear.

But at the same time, the scooter carries a number of fun new upgrades that I would have loved to make use of as a kid.

Check out my testing video below to see the Razor Icon in all its orange glory (though other bright colors are also available). Then keep reading for my full review.

Razor Icon video review

Razor Icon electric scooter tech specs

  • Motor: 300W rear motor
  • Battery: 36V
  • Top speed: 18 mph (30 km/h)
  • Range: Up to 18 miles (30 km)
  • Weight: 26.5 lb. (12 kg)
  • Load capacity: 220 lb. (100 kg)
  • Brakes: Rear motor braking and rear stomp brake
  • Tires: 8.5″ solid tires
  • Extras: Front and rear LED lights, LED display with built-in thumb throttle, kickstand, folding stem
razor icon electric scooter

Nostalgia on wheels

The Razor Icon electric scooter certainly looks the part of a classic Razor. The only immediate giveaway that this isn’t the same as the scooter gathering dust in your parent’s attic is that the wheels look much larger.

In fact, they’re around twice the size of those original little pucks that Razor called wheels.

These 8.5″ tires may be larger, but they’re equally flat-free. Razor’s original wheels from the early 2000s were hard polyurethane wheels. The Icon at least received a rubber upgrade to make them a bit softer, but the solid rubber still prevents flat tires from ruining your ride.

I wouldn’t want to hit any brick pavers or Zeus-forbid any cobblestone streets, but the wheels feel just fine on smooth bike paths and decent-quality roads.

The rest of the scooter is nearly a dead ringer for the original one, except for all of the electric updates.

That rear motor gets a surprisingly peppy 300W motor. Maybe it just feels so strong because the scooter is quite light (26.5 pounds!) and so you expect it to be a weak little thing. Whatever the reason, the scooter really picks up and moves.

There is one little annoying thing about the motor though, which is that the scooter has to be moving at around 2-3 mph or so in order for the thumb throttle on the handlebars to work. Surely Razor will say that’s a safety feature so that it’s hard for small kids to hop on and ride, or something to that effect. And that might also be true. But it’s really because the motor is sensorless (hall sensors in brushless electric motors are needed to let e-bikes and e-scooters start with good power from a standstill). Sensorless motors are cheaper and have fewer parts to go bad, and so it also surely helps support that fairly low $599 price tag on the Razor Icon (or apparently sometimes even cheaper on Amazon).

I’d have loved for the scooter to simply fly off from a stop when you hit the throttle, since sometimes you have to kick off harder than you’d expect to actually hit 2-3 mph and get enough speed to activate the motor. But it’s something you get used to and so I won’t complain too hard there.

The rest of the scooter is pretty positive from there. For such an inexpensive and lightweight little thing, it works quite well.

The small LED screen isn’t fancy but gives you a good readout of your speed and battery life. There are three speed modes, though I never used anything but the highest speed mode. And the motor braking in the rear wheel is surprisingly powerful. In fact, you may find yourself using the rear foot brake for more gentle stops, since the motor braking comes on quite strong.

I wouldn’t mind a little more grip in the tires, especially after I crashed it in some particularly tight turns (see video above), but I was also pushing this scooter way harder than anyone should normally ride it. These aren’t Pirelli racing tires, as I astutely discovered.

So who is it good for?

Here’s the thing: There are so many electric scooters out there right now. Like so, so many.

Every company has a few models and there are new companies every day. So what makes the Razor Icon special in this sea of scooters?

To be honest, it’s mostly just the look. Don’t get me wrong. The scooter works well. It’s nice and lightweight. It’s decently peppy (for such a lightweight scooter). And it will work just fine for cruising your cul-de-sac, Google campus, or NYC commute.

But the performance isn’t revolutionary and it doesn’t really offer anything you can’t get in another scooter, outside of the awesome design. So if nostalgia is high on your list, the Razor Icon probably should be too. And with a wide range of colors to choose from, you can have that nostalgia served up in just about any flavor.

razor icon electric scooter color options

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NIO’s EV sales top 20,000 for the sixth straight month as new low-cost SUV shows promise

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NIO's EV sales top 20,000 for the sixth straight month as new low-cost SUV shows promise

With its new electric SUV rolling out, NIO’s (NIO) sales topped the 20,000 mark again in Oct, its sixth straight month hitting the milestone.

NIO sold 20,976 vehicles last month, up 30.5% from October 2023. The NIO brand sold 16,657 vehicles, while its new “family-oriented smart vehicle brand,” Onvo, contributed 4,319 in its first full sales month.

After launching its new mid-size Onvo L60 electric SUV in September, NIO said production and deliveries are steadily ramping up.

At the end of October, NIO’s Onvo had 166 Centers and Spaces throughout 60 cities. Onvo plans to continue expanding its network to drive future growth.

NIO’s new electric SUV starts at around $21,200 (149,900) and is a direct rival to Tesla’s Model Y. The base $21K model is if you rent the battery. Even with the battery included, Onvo L60 prices still start at under $30,000 (206,900 yuan), with a CLTC range of up to 341 miles (555 km). That’s still less than the Model Y.

Tesla’s Model Y RWD starts at around $35,000 (249,900 yuan) with 344 mi (554 km) CLTC range in China.

NIO's-Oct-sales
Onvo L60 electric SUV models (Source: NIO Onvo)

NIO’s new Onvo brand drives higher Oct sales

NIO has often compared its new electric SUV to the Model Y, claiming it’s superior in many ways. The L60 has better consumption at 12.1 kWh/100km compared to the Model Y at 12.5 kWh/100km).

With a longer wheelbase (2,950 mm vs 2,890 mm), NIO’s electric SUV also provides slightly more interior space.

NIO's-Oct-sales
NIO Onvo L60 electric SUV (Source: Onvo)

Despite the L60’s success so far, NIO believes its second Onvo model will be an even bigger hit. It could be a potential game-changer.

“If you think the L60 is good, then this new model is a much more competitive product,” NIO’s CEO William Li told CnEVPost after launching the L60. Onvo will launch a new EV every year. Following the L60, Onvo will launch a new mid-to-large-size electric SUV next year.

NIO’s leader claims the new model will be revolutionary. According to Li, it will offer even more surprises than the L60. Deliveries are planned to begin in Q3 2025.

NIO Onvo L60 vs Tesla Model Y trims Range
(CLTC)
Starting Price
NIO Onvo L60 (Battery rental) 555 km (341 mi)
730 km (454 mi)
149,900 yuan ($21,200)
NIO Onvo L60 (60 kWh) 555 km (341 mi) 206,900 yuan ($29,300)
NIO Onvo L60 (85 kWh) 730 km (454 mi) 235,900 yuan ($33,400)
NIO Onvo L60 (150 kWh) +1,000 km (+621 mi) TBD
Tesla Model Y RWD 554 km (344 mi) 249,900 yuan ($34,600)
Tesla Model Y AWD Long Range 688 km (427 mi) 290,900 yuan ($40,300)
Tesla Model Y AWD Performance 615 km (382 mi) 354,900 yuan ($49,100)
NIO Onvo L60 compared to Tesla Model Y prices and range in China

Local reports suggest a six-or seven-seat electric SUV could hit the market even sooner. With rumors of a launch around Q1 2025, deliveries could happen as soon as May 2025.

According to sources close to the matter, the L60 is just a “stepping stone” with even more exciting EVs on the way. The source claimed the new six-seat option will start at around $42,100 (300,000 yuan).

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Velotric Ebikes’ big early-bird Black Friday discounts are here!

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Velotric Ebikes' big early-bird Black Friday discounts are here!

Velotric Ebikes are designed by some of the most brilliant minds in the business. And now, you have the opportunity to own one (or two!) of these high-performance, elegant, reliable rides. You won’t want to miss these fantastic early-bird Black Friday deals running from November 1-14, and, also get a sneak peek at special offers that start on November 8.

Read on to find the right model for you and learn how you can donate $5 to get up to $550 off a superb Velotric electric bike.

Velotric Black Friday deals – give to get back

If you donate $5 to either the Clean Air Task Force or the Solutions Project at checkout, you’ll unlock some fantastic discounts off Velotric e-bikes:

  • Clean Air Task Force: Fighting air pollution for healthier communities
  • The Solutions Project: Advocating for 100% renewable energy in frontline communities

Plus, Velotric is giving Electrek readers an exclusive discount: Enter the code Electrek20 at checkout to get an additional $20 OFF!

Velotric Discover 2 Ebike

The Velotric Discover 2, Velotric’s most comfortable e-bike, now has even more power, with a 750W high-performance motor and 75 Nm of torque. The 48V 706 Wh battery, providing up to 75 miles per charge, maximizes your range.

You can ride in comfort, as the frame design supports an upright posture; plus, it’s got a 200mm wide saddle and ergonomic grips, reducing long-ride strain. Enjoy a premium, versatile ride that turns every journey into a joyride.

Discover 2 – Save up to $200

Velotric Summit 1 Ebike

If you want both an everyday bike and a trekking bike, then this is the one for you. The customizable Velotric Summit 1 Ebike is a hybrid e-bike featuring a 750W motor with 90 Nm of torque that delivers exceptional power for both city streets and offroad terrain, and the intuitive throttle means you can access that power effortlessly. When you’re off-road, the 120mm travel suspension absorbs the impacts, resulting in a smoother ride. The 48V, 705.6Wh battery provides up to 70 miles of charge.

Plus, it features a vibrant multifunctional screen with three configurations and use the Velotric app to monitor mileage and access real-time bike data.

Summit 1 – Save up to $200

Velotric Nomad 1 Plus Ebike

The Nomad 1 Plus Ebike‘s 750W motor and 75 Nm torque allow you to conquer just about any terrain. The 691Wh battery keeps you on the move for up to 55 miles, an 80mm suspension fork smooths your ride, and powerful waterproof hydraulic brakes give you full control.

The Nomad 1 Plus features an adjustable stem, a brighter front light, and max speed adjustable range is 12-28 mph.

Nomad 1 Plus – save up to $550

Velotric Fold 1 Ebike

The Velotric Fold 1 Ebike becomes compact in just three quick moves, but don’t mistake it for simple. The high-performance 750W motor and generates 70 Nm torque, beating most of the competition for acceleration and climbing ability. The 608Wh battery will give you up to 55 miles of range, its step-through design is 20% lower than the competition, and when you’re done zipping around town or commuting, you can pop it into a car trunk or even a closet.

Plus, the Fold 1 is compatible with a wide range of cool accessories so you can customize it to meet your needs.

Fold 1 – Save up to $350

Velotric T1 ST Plus Ebike

The Velotric T1 ST Plus Ebike is an ultra-compact, 39-pound city-and-gravel bike that’s designed for riders with an active lifestyle. But don’t be fooled by its sleek look because it’s very well-equipped: The five pedal-assist-level T1 ST has a 70-mile range and three riding modes, and the peak 600W motor generates 40Nm of torque. It also comes with Apple Find My integration.

T1 ST Plus – Save up to $400

Velotric Discover 1 Plus Ebike

The Velotric Discover 1 Plus Ebike is a fantastic commuter bike that’s designed for comfort. (Plus, it’s kinda fun that it comes in five color choices.) If your commuting route is a bit more challenging, then the Discover 1 Plus might be the right fit for you. It features a rear light with braking high-beam, a 60 Lux front light, and double hydraulic disc brakes for extra safety. Plus, Velotric rigorously tests its frames 150,000 times under tough conditions for quality assurance.

This commuter e-bike that rides like a cruiser has a pedal assist range of 65 miles and throttle range of 58 miles on a 900W peak motor that generates 65 Nm of torque.

Discover 1 Plus – Save up to $550

Velotric Go 1 Ebike

Velotric’s Go 1 Ebike is small but mighty – it can carry up to 440 pounds comfortably. This ride has hydraulic suspension and a plush saddle, and it can be kitted out with a wide range of accessories, making it a versatile form of transport for everything from a fun day out to carting groceries across town.

It’s powered by Velotric’s proprietary Velopower H50 Drive System, which provides a range of up to 55 miles on pedal assist up to 25 mph (unlocked) with a peak 900W motor.

Go 1 – Save up to $400*

  • Regular price: $1,399 $1,699
  • Promotion: Get $100 off total saving $400
  • Discounted price: $1,299
  • Get 3 accessories & unlock 30% off on selected accessories

*Not included in the early-bird Black Friday deal, this deal runs from November 8-28 only

Velotric Packer 1 Ebike

From kids to cargo, the Velotric Packer 1 Ebike was designed to haul it all! The Packer 1 features Velotric’s proprietary Velopower H75 Drive System, which provides a range of up to 52 miles on pedal assist up to 25 mph (unlocked) with a 750W motor.

It can carry up to 440 pounds and has a 176-pound rear cargo carry capacity, plus hydraulic suspension with 80 mm of travel for a smooth ride. If you’re running a child to school every day, this would be a fantastic choice. Be sure to check out all the great accessories.

Packer 1 – Save up to $600

  • Regular price: $1,699 $2,199
  • Promotion: Get $100 off total saving $600
  • Discounted price: $1,599
  • Get 3 accessories & unlock 30% off on selected accessories

*Not included in the early-bird Black Friday deal, this deal runs from November 8-28 only

Don’t forget to use Velotric’s exclusive code for Electrek readers of Electrek20 at checkout to get an additional $20 OFF!

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The US’s largest offshore wind farm is on budget and on time

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The US's largest offshore wind farm is on budget and on time

Dominion Energy has hit a major milestone in the construction of its Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind (CVOW) project. The company has put in place 78 monopile foundations and four offshore substation foundations during the first installation season, surpassing its initial target of 70 monopiles.

The 2.6-gigawatt (GW) project is located 27 miles off the coast of Virginia Beach and is the US’s largest offshore wind farm under construction.

When complete, CVOW will feature 176 turbines generating enough clean energy to power up to 660,000 homes. Dominion Energy expects the project to save customers $3 billion in fuel costs over the first decade of operation. Construction is on track and on budget, with a projected completion date in late 2026. The project is currently 43% finished.

For the next few months, Dominion will focus on installing the first offshore substation, laying export cables, continuing onshore transmission work, and placing transition pieces on top of monopiles to prepare for turbine installation in 2025.

The monopiles, which are single vertical steel cylinders that support the wind turbines, are being staged at Portsmouth Marine Terminal. They were manufactured by Rostock, Germany-based EEW SPC, and will support turbines supplied by Siemens Gamesa. Installation of the remaining monopiles will resume in May 2025 as planned.

The planned pause is to safeguard the endangered North Atlantic right whale during its migration period through the project area.

CVOW is also boosting Virginia’s economy. Nearly 1,000 workers from the state, including more than 800 in the Hampton Roads area, have been involved in the project so far. Once operational, the CVOW wind farm is expected to create over 1,000 local jobs for ongoing maintenance and operations.

Read more: The US’s largest offshore wind farm just got its first monopile


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