Kosher Scooters Rev Up the Detroit Jewish Community

For the 7,000 Orthodox Jews in Detroit who observe traditional practices, a kosher scooter has revolutionized the observance of Shabbat.

Two years ago, Amigo Mobility International Inc. was approached by the community to create a product that can help Orthodox Jews who have difficulty reaching synagogues. Most Orthodox Jews refrain from using motorized vehicles during the observance of Shabbat. Amigo then introduced kosher scooters that were manufactured in Israel. It also received the stamp of approval from the Zomet Institute, an Israeli non-profit organization that deals with electronics that meet Halakha, or religious laws.

Amigo manager Scott Chappell told the Detroit News, “It’s designed in such as way that on Fridays and Saturdays, it is in a special mode and during the week it is in standard mode.” Each scooter has a sticker that certifies it meets the Halakha law. It is sold for USD $2,500 to $3,500, which can be covered by insurance.

Rabbi Jason Miller said the scooters have also helped those with mobility issues, either because of a disability or old age, practice their beliefs without any compromise. Detroit resident Michael Balkin, for example, has been greatly affected by the kosher scooters. Balkin suffers from a neurological disorder that makes it difficult for him to walk. The kosher scooters has allowed him to join services with ease.

“There are many rabbis out there who would give him permission to drive to synagogue on the Sabbath but on a psycho-spiritual level for someone with his observance patterns would still be uncomfortable with this leniency,” Miller told the Detroit News. “We should all see this as a benefit to our community no matter where you are on the observance spectrum.”