London Launches E-Scooter Rental Pilot Program

Transport for London (TfL) and London Councils have designated Dott, Lime, and Tier Mobility as the operators for its e-scooter pilot scheme. This announcement confirms earlier speculation stemming from job advertisements posted by these companies.

Government Legislation and Pilot Program Details

Following government legalization of e-scooter rental trials by local authorities last year – private e-scooter use remains prohibited – TfL and London Councils initiated a competitive procurement process to identify suitable operators.

The pilot program, with a duration of up to 12 months, is scheduled to commence on June 7th in select London boroughs, including Canary Wharf and the City of London. Further expansion to additional neighborhoods is anticipated throughout the year, as indicated by TfL. Lambeth and Southwark are also currently considering participation.

Operational Guidelines and Borough Participation

E-scooter rides will be restricted to begin and end within designated participating areas. These areas will feature dedicated parking bays, enforced through the operators’ geofencing technology.

Riders will have the freedom to travel between boroughs and utilize “ride-through areas,” currently limited to Tower Hamlets. Initially, between 60 and 150 e-scooters will be available for rent in each participating borough. TfL will permit operators demonstrating strong adherence to regulations to increase their scooter fleet, while non-compliant operators may face reductions.

Data Sharing and Safety Measures

Safety and data sharing are fundamental requirements for all participating scooter companies. TfL intends to leverage the data provided by operators to inform future e-scooter policies within London and the wider United Kingdom.

The data will also be used to assess the viability of e-scooters as a sustainable transportation option for London’s post-pandemic recovery. Aligned with London’s mayoral goal of achieving zero-carbon status by 2030, promoting eco-friendly mobility solutions that reduce reliance on internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles is crucial.

TfL’s Perspective on the Trial

“We’re doing all we can to support London’s safe and sustainable recovery from the coronavirus pandemic and it’s clear that e-scooters could act as an innovative, greener alternative to car trips,” stated Helen Sharp, TfL’s e-scooter trial lead. “This new trial will provide the data and insights we need to determine the longer-term role e-scooters could play in our strategy for a greener and healthier future for London.”

Mandatory Safety Standards

TfL has outlined the following mandatory safety requirements for all scooters:

• A maximum speed limit of 12.5 mph.
• Always-on front and rear lights.
• Audible warning systems accessible without altering handlebar grip.
• Mandatory e-learning safety courses for new users (“first-ride policies”).
• Prohibition of riding on sidewalks.

Addressing Street Clutter and Operator Responsibilities

Maintaining clean streets is a priority for London’s governing bodies. In addition to stringent geofencing regulations, operators are required to respond promptly to instances of improperly parked, damaged, or obstructing vehicles, as per TfL guidelines.

Commitment to Road User Safety

“The safety of those using e-scooters, as well as other road users and pedestrians, is absolutely paramount, so it’s important that they are trialled in this rigorous way to ensure high standards,” commented Will Norman, London’s walking and cycling commissioner.

Rental Pricing and Accessibility

Dott, Lime, and Tier will independently determine their rental pricing structures. However, they are expected to consider the needs of essential workers and lower-income individuals by offering appropriate discounts. Lime already provides its Lime Access Program, offering 50% discounts to eligible individuals.

Operator Profiles

Lime’s recent successes in securing contracts in New York and Paris further solidify its position as a leading provider of electric scooters, bikes, and mopeds, operating in over 130 cities across Europe, the Middle East, the United States, Korea, Australia, and New Zealand. Its existing e-bike operations in London made it a strong contender.

Tier Mobility, headquartered in Berlin and also operating in Paris, is another significant player. Its recent expansion into Kraków, Poland, marked its 100th city, with plans for continued growth in Europe, the Middle East, and new markets, alongside the addition of e-bikes to its fleet.

Tier will also introduce its rider-swappable battery system to London. This system allows riders to exchange batteries at charging stations located in local businesses, potentially offering free trips to riders and increased foot traffic for participating businesses. This crowdsourced approach could also alleviate congestion associated with scooter collection and charging.

Amsterdam-based Dott, which recently secured $85 million in Series B funding, represents a promising challenger. London will be Dott’s inaugural city within the United Kingdom, having previously operated in approximately 20 cities across Europe.

This article has been updated to include a more comprehensive list of countries where Lime operates.