These are much more of a personal transporter than a "Personal Transporter". Lightweight, compact, quick, easy to use, hands free (well, one anyway) and easy to carry. They do vary wildly in performance, range and weight, and the more you pay the faster and further they're going to go. If you pay a lot more for lithium battery technology then they're going to be a lot lighter, faster, quicker to charge and longer running.

We've seen several of these in our product research department, and there are two basic types: Those with skate wheels, and those with mountain board wheels. If you live somwhere where you have access to relatively smooth paving or roads then the skate wheel versions are ok, but if you want to use an electric skateboard just about anywhere then get one with mountain board wheels.

If you're adventurous or skilled at skateboarding then these are a great commuter tool. If you car share this is something that can easily be put in the boot and then you can skate off to your final destination, or pop to the shops for a sandwich at lunchtime. If you commute on the train then you won't be challenged with the obligatory "Does that fold up?" that you get with bikes.

Under the Road Traffic Act 1988 it would be an offence to ride an electric skateboard on the public roads or pavement as they are classed as a motor vehicle, and you could recieve up to 6 points on your driving licence (if you have one) and a hefty fine if caught. There are moves to have the law changed, but that takes time and political will. Although it isn't an offence to draw or propel a vehichle by hand close to the near side or left-hand edge of the carriageway. If the motor is off, the question remains as to whether it is a motor vehicle at all since you do have the option to "skate" should you so wish. I'm not sure how the law would view this, so please note that you have been warned.