Mobike, the app-based bike-share scheme which combines innovation and Internet of Things (IoT) technology, has unveiled plans to expand into Newcastle.
Following its July launch in Manchester and early September launch in London, Mobike will bring 1,000 of its distinctive orange and silver bikes to Newcastle at the beginning of October, with that number set to increase based on local demand.
The company has worked closely with local authorities and councils to ensure the scheme is “best executed for the needs of city locals”.
“We are once again launching in a city where there is a real commitment to get people on bikes,” UK general manager Steve Pyer said.
“Newcastle’s commitment to creating a safe and inclusive cycling culture made the city a natural place for the next step of Mobike’s UK expansion.
“We look forward to welcoming the Newcastle people to our growing Mobiker base, and to working with them and the city to take advantage of all of the scheme’s benefits. As Mobike continues to become available across the UK, our commitment to increase the amount of people making a healthier, eco-friendly transport choice has never been stronger.”
News of the Newcastle expansion was announced alongside Mobike’s new partnership with British Cycling. The nationwide collaboration was created with the goal of inspiring two million more people to get on bikes by 2020.
Hu Weiwei, founder and president of Mobike, said: “Mobike is more than just a bike sharing scheme. We want to help create eco-friendly cities, improve air quality, reduce traffic, and ultimately improve people’s quality of life. We are excited by what we can accomplish together. This collaboration will help us not only achieve this goal but also ensure the British people have the best cycling experience possible.”
British Cycling chief executive Julie Harrington added: “Mobike will help us achieve our shared goal of getting people back on their bikes. One of the biggest deterrents of getting on a bike is not having one.
“Not only will Mobike help provide bikes to people where they are needed and encourage them to rediscover their inner cyclist, but we will also get insights from Mobike’s smart technology which will help us understand cycling behaviours.”