Meet our Pioneer - Christopher
How long have you been a Pioneer at unu, and what do you like about it / what is particularly exciting?
I have been unu Pioneer since June 2021.
Getting around in urban areas with a forward-looking alternative to the car is particularly exciting. I'm always talking to interested people, discussing the pros and cons of electromobility, although it should be clear to everyone that the pros will outweigh the cons in the long run.
Can you give us an insight into your day as an unu Pioneer? / What does a typical day with the unu Scooter look like for you, and how do you use the unu Scooter for yourself?
I ride my scooter to university or work in the morning - whether it's sunshine, rain, or snow. If something is missing for cooking, I quickly get on the scooter and ride to the supermarket. Short trips with my girlfriend to the park or downtown are also made with the scooter occasionally.
How do your test drives typically go?
I meet with the interested parties at the agreed meeting point. After a small personal introduction of both sides, I give a small "Round-About," including a briefing on the scooter. Depending on the experience of the test riders, it goes directly on the scooter or provides a short beginner's briefing. If the test riders are from a different area, I give them some information about where and how they can ride relaxed. After the test ride, I answer any last questions and end the meeting with cozy small talk.
Who usually signs up for test drives?
I have had people from various backgrounds/life stages, whether young couples in their early/mid-30s, students 20-29, or independent contractors/freelancers.
Have the test riders had any previous experience with (e)scooters?
Yes, most of them had or even already had a scooter.
What is something that surprises the test drivers?
The quiet driving experience and the acceleration were experienced differently as a result. The storage space surprises most.
What do you like best about unu and the unu Scooter?
I find the design very cool. The driving experience is a lot of fun. It's effortless to get from A to B without problems at the destination, such as not having to look for an annoying parking space. Last but not least, the large storage space under the seat box should be noted.
As an insider of your city, which places would you recommend your test riders try out the unu scooter? / Is there a particular route you recommend to your test riders or an area you like to test ride, and why?
There are many places that I recommend to people. I usually base this on the experience of the drivers. I typically recommend driving to the nearest suburb if they want to drive long distances outside the city. Urban, of course, on the city's main roads, depending on traffic and time.
It makes little sense to have an inexperienced person test drive a car at 4:30 p.m. on crowded main city streets.
What is your ideal route through your city? / Which places do you like to rattle off with the unu Scooter the most? /In which areas do you feel most connected to your city?
A route around Karlsruhe Castle includes many sights, cafes, and ice cream parlors. The highlight is a beautiful avenue. A little more unique, I recommend the Turmberg. Once at the top, you have a beautiful view of the whole region.
What is the average feedback from test riders after trying our unu scooter?
The feedback is usually very positive. However, most test drivers are very concerned about the price.
Have you ever recommended family and friends to test drive or buy an unu scooter?
Most of my friends are still studying. Accordingly, they like to ride their bikes or use public transport. I also encouraged my colleagues at my work-study job to rethink whether a new car is necessary for the city center.
What is your most exciting experience with test drivers so far?
My most formative test rider was a 19-year-old young woman interested in/advocating for our climate. I demonstrated how to drive the scooter, as she had no experience. Instead of getting the fancy car her parents wanted to give her for her 18th birthday, she chose the unu scooter.
Can you give tips and tricks on what (new) unu drivers should look out for?
Pay particular attention in heavy traffic, as you can easily be overlooked by moving quietly.