Segway, do you know it? This cult brand of electric mobility made a name for itself thanks to its futuristic gyropods and its electric scooters with a very urban look. But do you really know who manufactures the Segway scooter brand? Between the dreams of an American inventor and Chinese industrial efficiency, the story of Segway hides many surprises. We take you behind the scenes of the brand to understand everything.
The origins of the Segway electric scooter brand
Before becoming a reference in the world of urban mobility, the brand of Segway electric scooters first stood out as a technological revolution. At the origin of the first self-balancing gyropod, the brand was founded in 1999 by the American inventor Dean Kamen. A look back at the beginnings of a project that aimed to reinvent urban mobility.
An extraordinary inventor: Dean Kamen
Behind the birth of Segway, there is a man: Dean Kamen. A brilliant engineer and prolific inventor, he has filed more than 1,000 patents in his career, notably in the medical field. In 1999, he founded Segway Inc. with one idea in mind: to create a new mode of urban transportation based on his self-balancing technology, initially designed for a wheelchair capable of climbing stairs. Two years later, in 2001, he unveiled to the world the Segway PT, a revolutionary two-wheeled gyropod that balances on its own. A true technological feat!
An innovation ahead of its time
The Segway PT electric scooter caused a sensation from its launch. Controlled solely by body movements, it promised to transform urban mobility. With its ultra-sensitive gyroscopic sensors, intelligent electric motors, and unique design, it had everything to please... on paper. But in reality, its high price, significant weight, and still unclear legislation hindered its adoption by the general public. In the end, despite initial enthusiasm and prestigious support, such as that of Steve Jobs, the Segway remains a success in esteem. Visionary... but too ahead of its time?
The acquisition by Ninebot: a strategic turning point
Segway, after several changes of ownership and a mixed commercial success, was acquired in 2015 by an unexpected player: Ninebot, a Chinese start-up specializing in transport robotics. This strategic acquisition, supported by Xiaomi and Sequoia Capital, would forever change the fate of the American brand.
Ninebot, the former competitor turned owner
In 2015, a major turning point occurred in Segway's history. The American company was acquired by Ninebot, a Chinese startup founded three years earlier in Beijing. This event was all the more surprising as the two companies had been in legal conflict shortly before, with Segway accusing Ninebot of copying its patents. But with financial support from the giant Xiaomi and the Sequoia Capital fund, Ninebot managed to buy its rival for 80 million dollars. A move that would redefine the face of urban mobility!
An industrial and technological merger
Rather than fully merging, Segway and Ninebot decide to maintain their respective identities. Segway remains the premium showcase aimed at the West, while Ninebot focuses on more affordable models for Asian markets. Behind the scenes, the two brands share everything: stabilization technologies, patents, chassis, motors... The result: Segway benefits from Ninebot's industrial strength, while Ninebot gains credibility thanks to Segway's prestigious image. A win-win alliance that will propel their electric scooters onto roads worldwide!
Who manufactures Segway electric scooters today?
Today, the manufacturing of Segway electric scooters is 100% handled by Ninebot. Thanks to an industrial organization spread across three continents, Ninebot manages the design, assembly, and distribution of Segway models with a precision and efficiency that are now a benchmark in the industry. Let's take a closer look!
Ninebot Inc.: the Chinese giant of micromobility
Today, Segway is just a brand: it is Ninebot that manufactures, designs, and distributes all the models. Based in Beijing, the company has experienced rapid growth and exceeds 2.5 billion in revenue in 2024. This success is due to a very structured strategy: in addition to its massive industrial capabilities, Ninebot invests heavily in research and development. R&D centers are established in several countries, including the United States, China, and Germany. Their goal is to stay at the forefront of innovation while adapting products to the expectations of local markets.
Where are Segway electric scooters manufactured?
Segway electric scooters are mainly manufactured in China, at the Changzhou factory, a true industrial giant capable of producing up to 4 million units per year. For the North American market, an assembly unit in Memphis offers premium models with more responsive logistics. And for Europe? It's happening in Rotterdam: a logistics and technical site there adapts the electric scooters to CE standards, while ensuring a fast customization service.
Segway and Ninebot: two names, one entity
Segway and Ninebot are a bit like two sides of the same coin. While their names often appear together, their roles in the group's strategy are quite distinct. One represents the high-end Western market, the other targets accessibility in Asian markets. We explain how this duo works wonderfully.
Two brands, two positions
Segway or Ninebot? Sometimes it's hard to tell the difference. And for good reason: the two names coexist within the same company, but with well-defined roles. As we saw earlier, Segway is the premium showcase aimed at Western markets, with more refined branding and a higher-end image. Ninebot, on the other hand, targets the entry-level segment and the Asian market, with models that are sometimes very similar technically. It is not uncommon to find the same features under two different names, with only the logo, finish, or mobile app varying from one model to another.
A common technological platform
Behind this marketing distinction lies a unique industrial platform. Segway and Ninebot electric scooters are designed on the same lines, with the same motors, the same batteries, and the same chassis. This standardization allows the company to produce more efficiently while reducing its costs. This enables the firm to achieve savings of up to 23% per unit, without compromising on performance.
Let's take a concrete example: the Ninebot MAX G2 electric scooter and the Segway MAX G2 E electric scooter share exactly the same technical specifications. The difference? It lies in the name and the finishes.
Reliability and build quality: how good are Segway electric scooters?
Beyond the name displayed on the handlebar, what really matters is what the electric scooter has under the hood. And on that front, Segway has strong arguments. Since its merger with Ninebot, the brand has continuously focused on the reliability, safety, and quality of its components. A winning bet!
High-end components
When you get on a Segway electric scooter, you immediately feel the care put into its manufacturing. Under the hood, there are powerful brushless motors, quality lithium-ion batteries, and components designed to last. The models are tested up to 10,000 km of endurance and meet strict standards such as UL2272, CE, RoHS, and REACH. In other words: durability and safety are guaranteed!
User feedback
On the user side, the feedback is generally very positive. You appreciate the handling, stability even on uneven ground, and the ease of use thanks to the mobile app that allows you to monitor the battery, lock the device, or adjust the settings. A few drawbacks nonetheless: in winter, the range can drop slightly, and the after-sales service, although effective in many cases, remains improvable depending on the region. But overall, the reputation for reliability is well deserved!
The Segway / Ninebot digital ecosystem: much more than just a scooter
Today, choosing an electric scooter is no longer just about the motor or battery life. It also means adopting a true connected ecosystem, where your smartphone becomes the brain of your vehicle. And in this field, the Segway-Ninebot mobile app stands out: intuitive, comprehensive, and regularly updated, it enhances every ride by combining comfort, customization, and safety.
Control everything from your phone
Thanks to a fast Bluetooth connection, the app gives you access to a wide range of useful features:
• Smart dashboard: battery, speed, distance, component status
• Trip history: view your routes, average speed, or driving habits
• Customizable settings: driving mode, lighting, maximum speed, etc.
• Security lock: disables acceleration and can trigger an alarm in case of suspicious movement
A smooth interface, translated into French, that makes it easy to get started even for beginners.
Connected security: an attentive co-pilot
On certain models, the app goes even further with intelligent protection features:
• Real-time anti-theft alert with mobile notification
• Geographic limitation (Geo-Fencing) to be alerted if the scooter leaves a defined area
• Automatic diagnostic before each trip to ensure everything is in order
These tools make your scooter not only practical but also preventive and reassuring, especially in urban areas.
Ahead of its competitors?
Compared to apps from other competing brands, Segway-Ninebot's app stands out for:
• A clear interface and a clean design
• Extensive compatibility with many models
• Regular updates to add new features
• Recognized software stability, even after several years of use
In short, a real asset that enhances the perceived quality of Segway products.
FAQ
Why do we sometimes see the name Ninebot alone on certain scooters?
Ninebot is the group that has owned Segway since 2015. Depending on the model or geographic area, the product may be marketed under one name or the other, or even both. This allows the group to adapt to the expectations of different markets without deeply modifying the product.
Are Segway scooters approved for road use?
Yes, most models intended for Europe comply with CE standards and are limited to 25 km/h, in accordance with current legislation. Some models are also equipped with lights, reflectors, and a horn, as required by regulations.
Does Segway offer models for children or beginners?
Yes. The Segway-Ninebot range includes more compact, lightweight, and restricted models for young users, such as the ZING Series. Note: even these models must be used under adult supervision and in secure areas.
What is the average lifespan of a Segway scooter?
Under normal use, a well-maintained Segway scooter can last between 3 and 5 years, or even longer. This largely depends on the type of use (occasional or daily), weather conditions, and adherence to charging cycles.
Conclusion
Behind the name Segway today lies all the expertise of Ninebot, the Chinese giant of micromobility. This partnership has allowed the brand to reinvent itself without losing any of its technological DNA. Reliable, robust, and modern, the Segway electric scooters continue to attract more and more users looking for a practical and safe means of transport. Want a certified model at the best price? Visit Weebot!