Two major e-scooter trials launched in York and West Midlands

Residents in York and the West Midlands are to be given access to e-scooters following the launch of two trials.

Tier will deploy an initial 100 e-scooters at the University of York  in a year-long trial, with discussions taking place as to whether York Hospital will also be able to host the scheme.

In the other announcement, Voi has won a contract for a trial which saw e-scooters introduced to Birmingham and Coventry yesterday.

They will be rolled out soon to Sandwell (West Bromwich), Solihull, Walsall, Woverhampton and Warwickshire.

Fredrik Hjelm, co-founder and CEO of Voi Technology, said: “We are delighted to announce that we will soon be offering the Voi e-scooter service in the West Midlands – a region that has played a significant role in the history of transport, from cars to rail and aviation.

“Today’s transport innovations are all about helping people to get out of their cars and making greener choices.”

Mayor of the West Midlands, Andy Street, added: “E-scooters will help bring more flexibility, choice, and greener travel solutions for the West Midlands, at a time when we are facing a climate emergency and urging people to leave the car at home.

“ E-scooters unquestionably offer a healthier, more environmentally friendly, alternative to the car for shorter journeys around our towns and cities, which will in turn help to ease traffic congestion and tackle air pollution.

“As well as the improvements to our transport network, e-scooters could also be a much needed boost for the region’s economy, helping to attract people back into our town and city centres.”

Customers will be able to rent e-scooters in the West Midlands trial for £1 to unlock, plus 20p per minite afterwards.

The York trial will see e-scooters available for rent from £1 to unlock the vehicle and 15p per minute travelled.

Cllr Andy D’Agorne, executive member for transport  at City of York Council, said: “This will provide a fantastic opportunity to explore how e-scooters might add to the mix of sustainable transport options, while helping to improve air quality and expand our electrical vehicle charging offer.

“The trial will also form part of the city’s Covid-19 response in terms of, for example, providing sustainable alternatives to support capacity on public transport across the city.”