On battlefields torn apart by war, attention is usually focused on powerful combat weapons such as formidable tanks, roaring helicopters, and circling drones. However, a recent video from the frontlines of the Russia-Ukraine conflict has stunned the world: soldiers were seen riding Chinese electric scooters, affectionately known as "little e-donkeys", nimbly navigating through smoke-filled war zones.

01.The Silent Hero, China's Little E-Scooter Becomes a Battlefield Favorite

As the Russia-Ukraine conflict continues to drag on, both sides are urgently seeking highly mobile and flexible vehicles for combat operations. In this context, electric two-wheelers have emerged as standout performers, particularly Chinese brands Yadea and Aima. These scooters, which are commonly seen on Chinese streets, have quickly become a favored piece of equipment for light infantry due to their portability, maneuverability, and quiet operation.

Their battlefield performance has been impressive. Thanks to their agility, they can traverse complex terrain with ease, proving especially effective in urban combat and mountainous operations. Capable of weaving through debris and obstacles, they enable soldiers to swiftly reach combat positions. Their quiet motors allow them to approach enemy lines without being easily detected, significantly enhancing the success rates of reconnaissance and ambush missions.

These electric scooters also reduce the effectiveness of enemy drones and are ideal for operations within a 10-kilometer range, whether for scouting, intelligence gathering, rapid force deployment, or emergency support. On today's dynamic battlefield, they have become trusted "silent companions" for soldiers.

02.Competitive Price, Robust Performance. Demonstrating the Strength of Chinese Manufacturing

This isn't the first time electric scooters have been used in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. 

In 2023, Latvian motorcycle manufacturer Mosphera provided a batch of electric motorcycles to Ukraine. Touted as "the world's first electric motorcycle built for military purposes," these bikes reached top speeds of 160 km/h and were stripped of seats to allow for quicker combat access, tailored for battlefield needs. However, the downside was their cost.

Each bike had a base price of $9,250 USD. Additional camouflage paint cost $250, the battery $2,500, a cargo rack $980, and a seat $200, making the total price prohibitively expensive for large-scale use.

By contrast, Chinese electric scooters offer unique advantages. With slight modifications, they can reach speeds of 50 to 60 km/h, making them harder for drones to track. They can accelerate immediately without gear-shifting, which reduces the chance of losing precious seconds when facing enemy fire.

Most importantly, they come with an astonishingly low cost: approximately 3,000 RMB (around $400 USD). This affordability means they can be equipped en masse without burdening military budgets. As the war stretches into its third year, with both sides experiencing fatigue, expensive military bikes have become a luxury. In comparison, the value-for-money advantage of these Chinese scooters stands out significantly.

Currently, Ukrainian forces mainly deploy Aima scooters, while Russian troops have adopted Yadea models.

Yadea and Aima, two of China's leading electric two-wheeler manufacturers, have long focused on innovation and product quality. Their extensive experience in the domestic market and advanced technology have laid a solid foundation for their impressive battlefield performance.