Do you plug your scooter in at the parks, if so where?

[bcinohio]

We are leaving in 10 days for a week at WDW, staying at ASMU. We are getting my mom a scooter for the first time so it is all new for us. I know that to save battery if you are sitting still for a time to shut off and take the key out but if you are in the parks all day do you plug your scooter in? if so where is a good place to do it?

thanks for any help.

 

[Chip_Dale]

The scooter should last the whole day including late nights. If you are at a table restaurant you could ask the host if there is a spot that you could charge the unit

 

[Vijoge]

IIRS, I was able to plug my ECV in at Brown Derby. I know I plugged it in at Jiko, outside the restaurant in the hall. I also was able to use an outlet somewhere in EPCOT but I don't remember exactly where.

 

[DisneyOma]

Check with the rental company to see if/how they recommend daytime charging. Some short-term charging can damage some batteries.

 

[gap2368]

My friend will charge her ECV at the end if buzz ( she ask first) also she has charged it up stares of the land but it really should last all day

 

[Bete]

Scooter batteries are dependent somewhat on the weight of a person. A lightweight person usually has the battery last longer; because, it's a lot less load on the scooter.

The Pride Victory scooter which can be rented has two batteries and will last a very long time even for a heavier person.

If you are vigilant with turning the scooter off for parades, fireworks and shows you should go 8 hours.

It really is not that convenient to be charging in the parks. TS meals are the best times. You can ask at each restaurant. Many restroom areas have outlets nearby. You have to look hard to find them.

 

[mamabunny]

Your best strategy is to make sure that the battery(s) is/are charged fully prior to leaving for the Parks every morning. Start the day with a fully charged battery, and you should be OK.

In addition to turning off the unit for shows, parades, etc., don't forget to turn it off when on buses, boats, and the Monorails. Also, I turn off my personal scooter if I am going to be sitting for more than 30 seconds or so (in line, or looking at something in a shop, or chatting with a CM) Turn it off at meals - even if you sit on the unit to eat.

Don't use the headlight in the daytime. It won't give that much additional visibility, and it will drain the battery faster. Some folks don't even use the headlight at night. On my personal ECV, I have a bicycle lighting system that is self-contained and rechargeable so it doesn't pull from my ECV battery. The only time I tend to use the headlights/taillights is at night, between the Park entrance and the buses, just for an extra bit of visibility.

Practice good battery "hygiene" and I bet you won't have any problems!

 

[bcinohio]

Thanks for all the encouragement. Being the first time I guess I am overthinking it. It took some convincing to get mom to agree to one so I just want it to go well. Thanks again.

 

[mamabunny]

Thanks for all the encouragement. Being the first time I guess I am overthinking it. It took some convincing to get mom to agree to one so I just want it to go well. Thanks again.

I think it's going to go great! But, I do understand your concerns - after all, this is a new way of doing things for you and your Mom both.

Over the years, I have learned that the people around you will often take their cues on how to act/react from how you handle the situation. In this case, if I were in your shoes, I would just be positive, and upbeat; try not to get too flustered or upset (after all, it's Disney World - so you are still at the best place ever!) and be sure to let your Mom know how well she is doing driving the ECV from time to time until she feels more confident.

She's bound to be a bit nervous at first, and that's normal. The first time I used an ECV I was a real mess! But with your gentle encouragement and support, I have a feeling you will have a great trip!

PS: A few last minute Pro tips for you to share with her!
- About Main Street in MK... The "curb cuts" to get on and off the sidewalks there are not always conveniently placed. And, as your Mom crosses the trolley tracks that run down the middle, remind her to cross at a good angle, so that her wheels don't get "stuck" down in the tracks, and potentially cause a problem.
- Most boats at WDW are ECV friendly, and it's very similar to getting on/off the Monorail, where a CM (often the boat's Captain) will carry over a small ramp that she will use to drive on and off the boat. There are a few of the smaller launches that don't have the ability to accommodate an ECV, but at those locations you will always find alternate transportation of some kind. Just like on the buses, take your cues from CM's and expect to board when the ramp is ready, and disembark when everyone else has gotten off the boat.
- ECVs in general are not precision vehicles, so they don't stop and start like a car does. Some of them will "lurch" forward a bit upon starting, but more importantly, once they are going, some of them don't slow down or stop quickly, especially going downhill. Going s l o w l y downhill (until your Mom is a bit more seasoned ECV driver) will help prevent problems.

Be sure to come back and give us trip report! I truly wish you a Magical trip!

 

[Simba's Mom]

Don't use the headlight in the daytime. It won't give that much additional visibility, and it will drain the battery faster. Some folks don't even use the headlight at night. On my personal ECV, I have a bicycle lighting system that is self-contained and rechargeable so it doesn't pull from my ECV battery. The only time I tend to use the headlights/taillights is at night, between the Park entrance and the buses, just for an extra bit of visibility.

The mention of headlights reminded me-I'd suggest that as a first timer, you periodically check your headlights. I found that a few times my headlights were on, and I have no idea how that happened. It's possible that somehow I accidentally hit whatever button it might be that turned the headlights on. Or maybe someone can tell me what I accidentally did to turn on the lights.

 

[The Hunchback]

A few more suggestions from a long time ECV user.
1. Get mom some battery operated lights to dress up the front and rear of the ECV. Christmas area is good for those right now. So is Dollar store. They will help people see her at night and help you find her if she gets cut off from the group. Tape or wrap them to basket and back of seat. Use only at night.
2. In Animal Kingdom, the bumpy paving is best driven slowly. Watch the edges of the flower beds. They sometimes are sharp.
3. Nemo at Living Sea in EPCOT is the most difficult waiting line to maneuver in my opinion. Do not do it until she has practiced on other attractions. Then she needs to take her time and swing wide on the turns.
4. Have fun and don't let mom get too stressed with people who walk in front of her.

 

[TheRustyScupper]

Scooter batteries are dependent somewhat on the weight of a person

1) And, how many other guests you have to run over.
2) But, in most eateries, there is a location either inside or outside to plug in your ECV/Scooter while you are eating or drinking.
3) Fortunately, if it is a rented Disney ECV, you just call the number on the key, and they come and replace it.
4) And, you are ready for many more people who get in your way.