they're easier to work on than a regular motor and the parts like the motor are just copper wire which is scrapable. it's true the batteries probably only last a few years but the scooters themselves offset the over all footprint of getting a new city commuter vehicle while cutting down on idling and buying gas. it's a fair trade off in the long run and lowers peoples mental depenmdance on cars. People that use their vehicle to go 3 blocks to buy items that fit in their pocket.