June 4, 2008

This looks like a lot of fun - Cruzin Cooler

Very high geekdom indeed. I first read about it in this article in the Glens Falls, New York Post-Star:
Man driving motorized cooler faces DWI, other charges
In case you were wondering, a motorized cooler on wheels is a motor vehicle under state law.

A Whitehall man learned that on Memorial Day, when he was charged with driving while intoxicated after police pulled him over for swerving and driving on the sidewalk on a four-wheeled, motorized cooler known as a "Cruzin Cooler."

Leslie J. "Bomber" Marr, 57, could face felony DWI and aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle charges because of prior arrests and convictions in drinking-and-driving cases, said Whitehall Police Chief Richard LaChapelle.

The electricity-powered Cruzin Cooler that Marr was riding contained 14 beers, the chief said.

LaChapelle said Whitehall Police Patrolman Andrew Mija stopped Marr at about 7:45 p.m. after the officer saw Marr swerving and preparing to cross William Street on the motorized cooler.

The machine has handlebars, and its operator sits on a seat atop the cooler, LaChapelle said.

"We were told it can do up to 12 mph," the chief said.
Curiousity aroused, I started googling and lo and behold these things really exist:
About Cruzin Coolers
Cruzin Cooler combines two basic necessities of life, the ability to have cold food or a beverage handy along with the means to get somewhere, without walking. With modern technology, the Cruzin Cooler is light-weight and comes in various sizes and colors and is available in gas and electric models, with a 10 mile range on electric models and 30 miles on the gas models.

The cooler is light enough to be driven to a location and then picked up and carried. The cooler can be used for hunting, sporting events, races, camping, golf or even a trip to the grocery store to keep your food cold all the way home. Marine use will be popular for the new cooler allowing you to take your fish/drinks/food/ ice to and from your boat with powered assistance and braking. Simply ride or power your way up and down ramps.

There are virtually hundreds of uses for the new coolers with thoughts of racing coolers not far behind!
And Cabella's carries them:
The coolest ride on four wheels. These motorized electric coolers are a standout for everything from tailgate parties at sporting events, to cruising around the neighborhood with your own mobile lemonade and ice-cream stand. The 300-watt electric motor puts out a top speed of 13 mph with a range of up to 15 miles between charges. Pneumatic tires with aluminum rims provide a comfortable ride on paved surfaces. Foot pegs give you a place to rest your feet when riding. The Cruzin Cooler can store up to 24 12-oz. cans and 8 lbs. of ice and has a weight capacity of 250 lbs. (tested to 540 lbs.). Optional Coolagon Wagon can be towed behind it (sold separately). The Coolagon Wagon is outfitted with a trailer hitch and a tow bar and has a 300-lb. weight capacity. It stores up to 72 12-oz. cans and 10 lbs. of ice. The Wagon also features an extendable handle that allows you to pull the cooler when not being towed, removable main lid, drink holder, separate drink access lid, steel inner frame with stainless steel bolts and nuts. The optional Cooler Seat with backrest fits the Cruzin Cooler or the Wagon.
This would be a blast to get for the store. $350 plus another $30 for the padded seat. Ten mile range would get me from home and back without any worries... Here is Ellen DeGeneres with hers:
ellen_coolerride.jpg
Posted by DaveH at June 4, 2008 9:28 PM