Segway recalls 23,000 scooters

By Shaun Nichols on Sep 18, 2006 9:58 AM
Filed under Oddware

Software bug hits personal transporters.

Segway is recalling over 23,000 of its personal transport scooters. The affected models are the PT i167, i170, i180, p133, XT, GT and i2.

The US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) warned that a software error can cause the Segway to reverse torque on the wheels unexpectedly, risking injury to the rider.

The problem occurs when the device is tilted back and the rider steps off the personal transporter and then back on.

Segway has received six reports of riders falling and sustaining head and wrist injuries as a result of the malfunction.

"The safety of our customers and our products is our top priority. When we identified this condition we notified the CPSC and immediately began working on a software upgrade to address the issue," said Segway chief executive Jim Norrod.

Owners can register to receive the Segway software update through the Segway website or by calling customer service and then taking the scooter to an authorised retailer.