Tag Archive: e-scooter trial

  1. E-scooter trials in Scottish cities could launch within nine months

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    Source: STV News

    Plans for e-scooter rental trials in Scottish cities could move forward within the next nine months, according to Voi, one of the largest operators of shared e-scooters in the UK.

    These trials will aim to explore the viability of e-scooters as a sustainable transport option, mirroring ongoing schemes in E gland. Currently, 22 e-scooter trials are active across England, which were launched following legislative changes four years ago. Discussions between the Scottish Government and the UK Department for Transport (DfT) are now underway to extend this initiative to Scotland.

    Local authorities express interest

    Several Scottish councils have indicated their willingness to participate. Midlothian Council has expressed interest but awaits the necessary legislative framework and funding. Glasgow City Council, which approved the idea of a trial in October 2020, is also awaiting for Transport Scotland’s legislative approval. A council spokesperson stated that e-scooters could play a role in creating a “sustainable transport system” for the city. They emphasized that any trial would be carefully monitored, particularly regarding pedestrian safety.

    Edinburgh City Council has also expressed conditional interest. Councillor Stephen Jenkinson, Transport and Environment Convener, noted that while the council is keen to learn from trials elsewhere, the lack of enabling legislation presents a significant obstacle.

    Operator optimistic about Scottish trials

    James Bolton, UK general manager of Voi, expressed optimism about the initiative’s prospects in Scotland. “We’re really keen to start working with Scottish cities to introduce some of the benefits we’ve seen in England over the last four years,” Bolton said. “Speaking to the cities, we know there is a clear appetite for e-scooter trials north of the border.”

    Bolton emphasized the potential environmental benefits of e-scooters, including their alignment with Transport Scotland’s goal of reducing car journeys by 20% by 2030. Addressing safety concerns, he cited data showing a 70% reduction in serious accidents involving e-scooters over the past four years, putting them on par with electric bikes.

    Scottish government and Transport Scotland response

    Transport Scotland confirmed ongoing discussions with the UK Government for Transport regarding participation in e-scooter trials. A spokesperson stated that legislative changes would be required to enable interested local authorities to take part.

    Outlook for e-scooter trials in Scotland

    With growing interest among local authorities and a clear push from operators like Voi, e-scooter trials could represent a significant step toward greener transport options in Scotland. However, legislative approval remains a critical hurdle before trials can proceed.

    The coming months will determine whether Scotland joins England in testing e-scooters as a potential solution to urban mobility challenges.

  2. Zag Daily reports that applications have opened for new UK e-scooter trial areas

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    Source: Zag Daily, B. Hubbard

    The UK Government’s Department for Transport has announced a process for more local authorities to register their interest in e-scooter trials.

    There are e-scooter trials currently taking place in 22 English regions, and now the UK’s Department for Transport (DfT) has invited other local authorities to register interest in holding trials in their area.

    Zag Daily reported that the DfT has sent a letter to operators saying the following: “The Government recognises that shared micromobility schemes, such as the schemes running as part of the e-scooter trials, can help to build an integrated transport system by connecting people to bus stops and train stations, genuinely replacing private car use, and giving people greener choices. However, it is important we understand their wider impacts too, to ensure they are integrated into our transport networks safely and effectively.”

    It is believed that the DfT want to encourage local authorities to hold e-scooter trials to maximise learning about this mode of transport, providing as much evidence as possible in helping the UK government to decide on any future legislation. New authorities have until 15th November 2024 to submit their new proposals for holding trials up until 31 May 2026.

    A DfT spokesperson informed Zag Daily, “We want to deliver integrated transport that reduces emissions, improves journeys, and gives people choice over how they travel. We are assessing interest from local authorities who are seeking to open new e-scooter trials. This will allow us to continue learning how to run successful rental schemes which put safety first and ensure the best possible service.”

    James Bolton, UK General Manager of e-scooter brand Voi, has commented “This marks a significant step forward in transforming how we navigate our urban landscapes. We’ve already facilitated an incredible 39 million trips, helping to replace an estimated 14 million car journeys. This achievement underscores the transformative potential of e-scooters in creating more sustainable, integrated and efficient urban transport systems. To ensure the safe and sustainable integration of e-scooters into our transport network, it’s crucial to establish a robust legal framework.”