Dutch start-up Van.eko has created a chic electric scooter—named “Be.e”—that is made with hemp-based plastic, an organic material that is derived from the cannabis plant.
Using fabrication techniques that are similar to the ones that goes into the making of Formula 1 race cars, natural fibers are pressed together to create a surprisingly strong shell that can come away from a minor collision with nothing more than a few scratches.
The retro design of the Be.e that brings to mind vintage European scooters is in direct contrast with its high-tech mechanics that allows it to reach a top speed of 30mph and a 50-mile range on a 2000-cycle re-chargeable battery.
Unfortunately, the Be.e is not for sale—it will be launched next year in Amsterdam under a rent-only scheme where they can be lease for unlimited monthly use or sub-lease for daily commute or once off rides.
Find out more about the Be.e scooter here.
[via Fast Co. Design]