In the world of scooters, adding a roof might not seem like a new concept. Many manufacturers, particularly in Asia, have toyed with the idea, and BMW even attempted something similar with its C1 in the early 2000s. However, the idea didn’t quite take off, particularly in Western markets. Fast forward to today, Chinese manufacturer Doufeng is taking another shot at this niche market with its Doufeng S1 110, a three-wheeled scooter with a roof that offers a unique, accessible solution for urban commuting.
The concept of a roofed scooter
The idea of a scooter with a roof is hardly novel in Asia, where weather conditions and crowded streets make a covered option more appealing. Manufacturers like Piaggio, with its Adiva AD3, have already explored the concept. The Adiva AD3, for instance, is available in Japan for around JP¥990,000 (US$6,965). However, Doufeng’s approach with the S1 110 is to make this concept more affordable and accessible to a broader range of users.
Two variants: Gasoline and Electric
Doufeng offers two versions of the S1 110: one powered by a traditional combustion engine and the other by an electric motor.
The Combustion Engine Model: The gasoline-powered S1 110 features a 110cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine, delivering a modest 9 hp (6.5 kW) and 6.7 lb-ft (9.2 Nm) of torque. While these figures might not be groundbreaking, they are suitable for city commuting. What stands out more is the price tag—at just CN¥10,980 (approximately US$1,550), it is a budget-friendly option for those looking for a unique three-wheeled scooter.
The Electric Model: The electric variant is where Doufeng focuses on affordability. Priced at CN¥9,980 (around US$1,407), it offers a cheaper entry point into electric mobility. However, this comes at the cost of lower performance, with just 2 hp (1.5 kW) of nominal power and a peak output of less than 5 hp (3.5 kW). The electric S1 110 offers a range of 50 miles (80 km) on a single charge, which should be adequate for short urban trips and errands but may not be suited for longer journeys or highway use.
The S1 110’s unique features
One of the most intriguing aspects of the S1 110 is its tilting mechanism, which enhances stability and handling. The front wheels are separated by a distance of 15.1 inches (385 mm), and the scooter employs a Multi-Link Suspension (MLF) system that allows a 22-degree lean angle. This system enables the front wheels to move independently, improving the scooter’s ability to handle uneven terrain and offering a smoother ride.
The overall dimensions of the S1 110 are fairly compact, measuring 79.1 inches (2,010 mm) in length, 29.9 inches (760 mm) in width, and 69.2 inches (1,760 mm) in height, with a seat height of 29.5 inches (750 mm). Its curb weight is 302 lbs (137 kg), making it manageable for most riders, and the wheelbase measures 52.3 inches (1,330 mm), providing adequate stability.
Practical equipment and features
Doufeng has outfitted the S1 110 with several practical features aimed at making the ride as convenient as possible. These include:
- A roof to protect the rider from the elements
- LED lighting for better visibility
- A keyless start system for ease of use
- A USB port for charging electronic devices
- Wipers for the tall windshield
When it comes to safety, the S1 110 is equipped with disc brakes on all three of its 10-inch wheels, though it lacks advanced features like ABS or traction control. Instead, it offers a combined braking system (CBS), which helps balance the braking force between the front and rear wheels, ensuring more stable stops.
Variants with different battery options
Doufeng also plans to offer a slightly more expensive variant of the electric model that uses lithium-ion batteries instead of the standard lead-acid ones. This version, priced at CN¥11,800 (around US$1,664), comes with a 72-volt/45 Ah lithium-ion battery, as opposed to the standard 72-volt/32 Ah lead-acid battery. The lithium-ion variant will also feature traction control as standard and will weigh around 271 lbs (123 kg), about 30 lbs (14 kg) lighter than the combustion model.
The future of the roofed scooter concept
Despite its affordability and unique features, it remains to be seen whether the Doufeng S1 110 will make its way to Western markets like the US. The market for scooters, particularly those with roofs, is relatively niche in the West, and manufacturers may be hesitant to introduce such vehicles without clear demand. However, in Asia, where dense traffic, frequent rain, and short commutes are the norm, the S1 110 has the potential to appeal to urban riders looking for a practical and affordable solution.
Pricing and availability
The pricing for the Doufeng S1 110 is one of its strongest selling points. The combustion engine version is priced at CN¥10,980 (US$1,550), while the electric version comes in at CN¥9,980 (US$1,407). For those looking for additional features and improved battery technology, the lithium-ion variant is priced at CN¥11,800 (US$1,664). These price points make the S1 110 one of the most affordable options in the three-wheeled scooter market, particularly for those interested in electric mobility.
Source: Doufeng
