Estonian headquartered ‘micromobility’ firm Bolt has announced plans to deploy 130,000 scooters in more than 100 cities next year, including London.
The company will operate 130,000 electric scooters and electric bikes in 2021, which it said would make it the largest operator of shared light electric vehicles in Europe.
It plans to invest £89m in the expansion.
A Bolt representative told BusinessCloud: “Our research suggests London is split 50:50 between whether they’d take a ride-hailing ride or an electric scooter for a short journey – which we believe is a positive sign and one we’re in a unique position to facilitate with our multi-modal offer.”
“We’ve seen strong growth in driver and rider numbers in London, even during the coronavirus pandemic, suggesting Bolt’s driver-friendly and affordable service is appreciated by all involved. We’re constantly assessing opportunities and will let you know as soon as we have any expansion news to share.”
Bolt claims to be the second biggest ride-hailing player in London, with more than 50,000 drivers accepted onto the platform and over 2 million passengers signed up/
In recent months, it has accelerated the expansion of its micromobility services to 45 cities in 15 countries, including Sweden, France and Portugal.
The company launched an electric bike-sharing service, becoming the first on-demand transportation platform in Europe to have electric bikes, scooters, and ride-hailing under a single brand in one app.
Matt Barrie, Country Manager, Rentals – UK&I, Bolt added: “Bolt is supporting national and local legislators as the necessary steps are made towards full legalisation of electric scooters in the UK and Ireland.
“Bolt’s unique multi-modal customer proposition will unlock tremendous value in providing urban citizens with the appropriate sustainable transportation options, to quickly, safely and affordably move around their city.”