The French Army is testing electric scooters as a potential mobility tool for its special forces and airborne units. The EZ Raider, an all-terrain, four-wheeled electric scooter, is being evaluated for its tactical value by the 11th Parachute Brigade and special forces.
This initiative is part of a broader effort by the French Army to explore innovative mobility solutions that align with evolving battlefield requirements. The project targets units operating in isolated environments where silent movement and rapid deployment are vital.
Troops operating behind enemy lines often face constraints related to speed, discretion, and transport of heavy equipment. The lightweight and modular nature of the EZ Raider may provide an answer to these challenges. The goal is not simply to modernize transportation but to enhance endurance and flexibility for forces conducting missions in restricted or hostile zones. These tests will determine whether this device could be included in the standard equipment of airborne troops.
Iran Puts Telecommunications Satellite Into Orbit From Russian Base
Off-Road Design Tailored for Tactical Use
The EZ Raider differs significantly from standard city scooters. As reported by Armees, it is a four-wheel-drive, all-terrain electric scooter capable of handling extreme conditions. It can support a payload of up to 255 kilograms—equivalent to two soldiers with their gear—and reach speeds of 45 km/h, even on difficult terrain. With an autonomy of 55 kilometers, it allows extended operations without requiring immediate recharging.
It is also designed to be transportable by helicopter and can be deployed in seconds, making it a valuable asset for quick, silent infiltrations. Its quiet electric motor makes it particularly suited for missions where discretion is key. These characteristics suggest the EZ Raider could be a useful tool for both reconnaissance and rapid engagement in complex terrain.
Increased Capacity Through Modular Options
Beyond individual mobility, the EZ Raider offers modular enhancements. A motorized trailer can be added to double its carrying capacity. This configuration could enable transportation of heavy equipment such as mortars, munitions, or missiles, and even serve for casualty evacuation under enemy fire.
This capability transforms the scooter into more than just a personnel carrier. It becomes a logistical platform capable of moving essential equipment or performing tactical evacuations. This approach addresses multiple operational needs and provides greater autonomy to small units operating without immediate support.
Addressing Modern Operational Constraints
For airborne units like the 11th Parachute Brigade, which frequently operate in remote or hostile environments, rapid and discreet movement with heavy gear is a constant challenge. The light structure and operational simplicity of the EZ Raider offer a response to these evolving needs.
As Armees highlights, this testing phase is aligned with the Army’s broader modernization objectives. With adversaries reinforcing access denial capabilities, long infiltration missions are becoming more frequent. Soldiers are often required to cover extended distances on foot, which affects their stamina and operational performance. The introduction of lightweight mobility tools is seen as a way to reduce this burden and enhance mission sustainability.
