Latest news with #micromobility
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Bird and Segway Partner to Launch Next-Gen Shared Micromobility Fleet Across North America
Industry Leaders Unite to Deliver Smarter, Safer, and More Sustainable Urban Rides BEIJING, July 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Bird, a pioneer in shared micromobility, and Segway, a global leader in electric vehicle innovation, announced a strategic alliance to roll out advanced new electric scooters and e-bikes across key North American markets. This next-generation fleet combines Segway's engineering excellence with Bird's operational expertise to set new standards for performance, safety, and sustainability in urban transportation. The partnership introduces three co-developed models—the Bird Dash, Bird Explorer, and Bird Journey—designed to meet diverse rider needs, from daily commuting to recreational trips. All three models feature improved vehicle durability, cutting-edge safety systems, and a lower environmental footprint, with deployments beginning this summer across North America. "This collaboration brings together the best of what Bird and Segway offer: world-class technology, rider-first design, and innovation to deliver more sustainable urban mobility," said Stewart Lyons, Co-CEO of Bird. "Together, we're shaping the future of micromobility by expanding access to safe, reliable, and efficient transportation in cities and communities around the world." Optimized for Efficiency and Performance The new vehicles are equipped with IPX7-rated water resistance, reinforced structures, and low-maintenance components that increase reliability and reduce operational costs. The Bird Journey e-bike offers a range of up to 90 kilometers on a single charge—supporting longer commutes with fewer battery swaps. Optimized energy usage lowers standby power and delivers greater efficiency across fleets. These durability and efficiency improvements collectively reduce total cost of ownership (TCO) , delivering superior long-term value. Rider feedback for this initial launch has been exceptional, resulting in a 40% increase in ridership of these new vehicles. Riders particularly like the smooth ride, sleek look and feel and features like the new charging block for your mobile device. Coming from Bird Team Commitment to Safety and Compliance All three models feature enhanced braking systems (dual drum + electric), bright LED lighting with turn indicators, and onboard sensors to detect sidewalks and pedestrians—triggering alerts and automatic speed adjustments to help prevent collisions. Each model exceeds industry safety benchmarks, including UL2272 and UL2849 certifications. "Segway has always pushed the boundaries of intelligent mobility," said Alan Zhao, General Manager of the Sharing Business Division. "With Bird, we're delivering a smarter and safer riding experience, purpose-built for today's cities and tomorrow's expectations." Designed for Sustainability Sustainability is embedded into every layer of the new fleet—from recycled materials and modular parts to closed-loop packaging and longer-life batteries. These upgrades support Bird and Segway's shared goal of building a more circular economy and advancing climate-friendly mobility at scale. Together, Bird and Segway are redefining what's possible in shared mobility—empowering cities and riders alike with smarter, safer, and more sustainable ways to move. This launch marks just the beginning of their continued collaboration to build the future of micromobility. View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Segway Sign in to access your portfolio
Reuters
2 days ago
- Automotive
- Reuters
Beam Mobility and Neuron to Merge, Solidifying APAC E-Scooter Leadership
SINGAPORE, July 21, 2025 (EZ Newswire) -- Leading international e-scooter operators Beam Mobility, opens new tab and Neuron Mobility, opens new tab have signed a preliminary agreement, opens new tab as they work towards a merger that will solidify their micromobility leadership in Asia Pacific. The merger of the two Singapore-headquartered companies will bring together strong industry expertise, laying a solid foundation for profitability, scalable growth, and long-term success. Completion of the transaction is expected within 60 days, subject to customary closing conditions. The combined company will operate in over 100 cities and will retain both the Beam and Neuron brands, deploying each in their strongest markets. Neuron is a market leader in Australia and Canada, while Beam's strong presence in South Korea, Southeast Asia, and Turkey, as well as their recent launch in the U.S., unlocks exciting new opportunities. Neuron Mobility's co-founder and CEO, Zachary Wang, will lead the combined company as chairman and global CEO. He will be supported by Beam Mobility's CEO and co-founder, Alan Jiang, who will become the CEO of Asia. Beam's president, and fellow co-founder, Deb Gangopadhyay, will become a strategic advisor while shaping the industry with groups like the Open Mobility Foundation. Further leadership appointments will be announced in due course. The new company will be headquartered in Singapore. Zachary Wang, opens new tab, CEO of Neuron Mobility, said: "We are excited to share our plans to bring together the strengths of both companies, creating a truly global e-scooter operator with a clear path to profitability. The combined company will leverage Neuron's leadership in Australia and Canada, along with Beam's strong presence in South Korea, Southeast Asia, and Turkey, while also unlocking new opportunities for growth.' Alan Jiang, opens new tab, CEO of Beam Mobility, said: "The deal unlocks a wealth of exciting opportunities, allowing us to leverage the best of both companies. As well as strengthening our position in Australia and New Zealand, Beam's large vehicle fleet and expertise in permit-based and emerging markets, combined with Neuron's strong track record in tender-based markets, will provide a solid foundation for sustainable growth and international expansion." Deb Gangopadhyay, opens new tab, president of Beam Mobility, said: 'I'm incredibly proud of what we've built at Beam over the past seven years. This merger unites two of the most innovative companies, and I'm excited to support the combined company as a strategic advisor. I'm also looking forward to shaping the future of our industry through leadership and collaboration with key organisations such as the Open Mobility Foundation.' Existing Neuron Mobility investors, including Square Peg Capital and GSR Ventures, along with Beam Mobility's investors, including Affirma Capital, Hana Ventures, and Peak XV Partners, will all take a stake in the new company. Media Contact Beam Mobilitypress@ ### SOURCE: Beam Mobility Copyright 2025 EZ Newswire See release on EZ Newswire
WIRED
5 days ago
- Automotive
- WIRED
Bo's Turbo Escooter Can Go Over 100 MPH—and Could Set a Record
Bo plans to break 100 miles per hour on its nearly $30,000 Turbo scooter with an injection of Formula One expertise. All products featured on WIRED are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links. The fastest I've ever ridden on an electric kick scooter is close to 40 miles an hour, and it was terrifying. UK-based escooter company Bo wants to go even faster—more than 100 miles per hour—and set a Guinness World Record in the process. Bo is a relative newcomer in the micromobility space, and its team is peppered with former members of Williams Formula One Advanced Engineering. It launched its first scooter, the hand-assembled Bo M, a year and a half ago in the UK and European Union, and it's finally gearing up to launch it in the US in the coming weeks. To get people jazzed up about its sleek, unibody aluminum scooter, Bo is trying to dazzle with the Turbo. 'If you want people to really care about micromobility, you have to do impressive, meaningful things,' Bo CEO Oscar Morgan tells me. It's unveiling the Turbo to the public at Bonneville Speed Week in August, where it hopes to set the speed record. Model M Photograph: Julian Chokkattu Before diving into the details of the Turbo, we need to discuss the Bo M. It resembles a scooter, but it also doesn't look like any other kick scooter. The hallmark of its design is the unibody aluminum chassis, which doesn't fold at all. Even when you order it, the Bo M comes in an L-shaped box, preserving its pristine shape. The company is so proud of its unibody Monocurve chassis that it has a seven-year warranty on the chassis (the scooter in its entirety is covered for two years). The inability to fold it makes it rather annoying to store neatly or carry up a flight of stairs, but Morgan says a folding system immediately creates more durability risks, citing how major players like Segway have had to issue recalls tied to folding mechanisms. An early issue like that would have jeopardized a small company like Bo. The idea is for the Bo to be ready to go at all times. The unique center stand keeps the Bo M from leaning sideways when it's not in use, unlike almost every other scooter. And it's completely weatherproof (IP66)—Morgan says you can store it outside, something that isn't recommended with most escooters. Photograph: Julian Chokkattu The Bo M is disarmingly simple and deceptively powerful. It doesn't look like it can go far or all that fast, but the 400-watt motor can dish out a top speed of 22 mph. Weighing 50 pounds, it has an estimated 30 miles of range and can handle riders up to 265 pounds. I was able to ride it briefly in Brooklyn, and the motor isn't jerky, smoothly ramping up power as you need it. There's no suspension, but the 10-inch pneumatic tires handled bumps on the road decently well, though cobblestones proved problematic. The Bo M feels sturdy and stiff, nimble and solid. Bo's Safesteer tech stabilizes the handlebars to always return to center, which meant I didn't need to grip the handles so tightly. I also like that the regenerative brake isn't an alternative brake like on most scooters—it's built into the left brake lever, while the right powers the mechanical drum brake. That said, I wouldn't have minded more stopping power. I also would have liked the ability to raise the height of the handlebars, as it was a little low for my 6'4" frame. But that would have ruined the unibody aesthetic. Instead, Morgan imagines the company will have other models, much like a clothing line. A Bo L could be designed for taller folks with more power and range, and a Bo S could add a folding mechanism to make the vehicle more portable. You get a headlight and rear light, a bell, and a button to change between the two speed modes. That's it. In the center is the IntraLock mounting system from accessory maker Mous (another UK company). There is no display on the scooter—Bo wants you to use your phone instead—which means you'll need to buy a Mous IntraLock case to mount a smartphone. Once mounted, you can use Bo's app as a speedometer or your favorite mapping app. Photograph: Julian Chokkattu The app doesn't have many other features outside of locking the motor, choosing modes, turning on the headlight, and checking the battery. Technically, Morgan tells me the scooter has the hardware needed to enable Find My functionality in Apple's tracking app, but Bo hasn't completed Apple's certification process yet, so this capability isn't present currently. The Lock and Load mounting point on the chassis lets you secure the scooter with a bike lock and doubles as a spot to hang a backpack as you ride. All of this comes at a high price, one that many may find unreasonable. In the UK, the Bo M starts at £1,299, but when it launches in the US it'll cost $2,250 after tariffs. You can easily find scooters with similar capabilities for half that or less in the US, like the Apollo Go. That said, Morgan says Bo's demographic is people who enjoy the aesthetic of the scooter as much as the performance, many of whom are also first-time escooter riders. It's why the setup is almost nonexistent when you unbox the Bo M—just make sure the tires have enough air. The biggest question with new micromobility companies is the servicing story. Bo is currently looking to partner with a dealer network, though the company says it will sell parts online so a customer can make their own repairs if needed. While some of the components are proprietary, Morgan says it's built in a way that you can use third-party parts to keep the Bo M running forever. For example, the Bo M has a custom motor, but the mounting points are standardized. You could install another motor on the chassis, it just wouldn't have the same level of optimization. Make It Faster The existence of the Turbo can be summarized with one intent: If you can do 100 miles per hour on it, then riding at 25 mph on the Bo M is nothing. That's because the Turbo is made with the same aluminum unibody frame as the Bo M, just wider and with a dual-motor system. It's a pure marketing stunt to get people looking at the Bo M while showing off the company's engineering chops. The Turbo has a 24,000-watt dual-motor propulsion system, powered by a 1,800-watt-hour battery that theoretically could deliver 150 miles of range at normal speeds (around 18 mph). It has a ram-air intake 'inspired by F1 brake duct inlet design' to prevent the whole system from overheating. And it can go faster than 100 miles per hour, the world record it intends to set at Bonneville Speed Week. Perhaps shockingly, it's not impossible to purchase. Morgan tells me a Bo M customer in Spain has already ordered a Turbo for an eye-watering $29,500. Whether it sets the record or not, it'll be interesting to see what learnings the company will take to improve its future scooters (turn signals would be a nice place to start). Bo isn't the only company trying to make a splash in the volatile direct-to-consumer micromobility space. New York–based Infinite Machines recently debuted a sleek, all-aluminum $3,495 Olto ebike, pedals and all, and Rivian unveiled a new micromobility company earlier this year, dubbed Also. These companies are crafting a new breed of good-looking, durable, simplified micromobility vehicles, with higher prices to match. Only time will tell if customers bite.
CTV News
6 days ago
- Automotive
- CTV News
E-bikes and e-scooters need clearer rules, more data: CAA-Quebec
There are several gaps in regulations and a lack of data about electric scooters and bikes on Quebec roads, a study by CAA-Quebec shows. The study by the Traffic Injury Research Foundation highlighted these concerns as more users take to micromobility as a form of transport. 'There's a lot of lacking data. We find that there's also a lack of uniformity in the legislation. So this is why we say that the objective was… we have to do something, because it's just not going to stand the road,' explained CAA-Quebec president Andre Durocher. Part of the issue is that there are no norms across the country or even across municipalities in the same province, and that can create confusion, said Durocher. Further, some of the data on collisions is inconsistent and lacks essential information, including whether an e-bike or e-scooter was even involved. 'For example, people on a scooter, if you hit a pothole, the injuries could be serious,' Durocher said, explaining that police reports don't always clearly state if the collision involved an electric micromobility vehicle. 'There's still a lot of information missing with regards to, for example, the injuries.' The study also highlights the fact that some people are unaware of basic regulations surrounding e-bikes and e-scooters, including that the minimum age for driving an electric scooter is 14, and that helmets are mandatory. The research also shows that more serious injuries are typically caused at higher speeds. Durocher said the new forms of electric micromobility are 'innovation and practical' but simply need more regulation and better accident reporting. 'We have a nice problem, because it means that we have other alternatives than the automobile, which is great for the environment. It's great, you know, to clear up traffic,' he said. 'But now, how do you manage that coexistence?' CAA-Quebec highlighted these regulations from Quebec's automobile insurance agency, the Société de l'assurance automobile du Québec. Regulations in Quebec In general, the rules of the road that must be obeyed by users of motorized personal transport vehicles such as electric scooters are similar to those for cyclists: Ride as close as possible to the curb or on the right side of the roadway and in the same direction as traffic On the shoulder, ride in the same direction as traffic Do not ride on sidewalks (except in certain special cases) Yield to pedestrians at a pedestrian crossing The following are prohibited under the pilot project launched by the Government of Quebec in July 2023:
Khaleej Times
13-07-2025
- Khaleej Times
Ban on e-bikes, e-scooters in Dubai communities sparks public safety, freedom debate
In just the first five months of 2025, 13 lives were lost in Dubai due to e-scooter misuse and jaywalking — a sharp, sobering spike that's reignited public debate around micromobility. The numbers tell their own story: in 2024 alone, the city recorded 254 accidents involving e-scooters and bicycles, resulting in 10 fatalities and 259 injuries. While e-scooters and e-bikes offer a convenient and eco-friendly mode of transportation, their growing popularity has also led to a rise in traffic violations and fatalities. In response, many residents are calling for either tighter regulation or outright bans within residential areas. Others, however, argue that a blanket ban is not the solution but rather a setback for daily commuters who rely on these modes of transport. The increasing disregard for traffic rules by some riders has become a pain for communities. As a result, neighbourhoods such as Victory Heights and Jumeirah Beach Residences have banned their use entirely. Speaking to Khaleej Times (KT), members of the Victory Heights Owners Committee (OC) said the decision to seek a ban followed persistent complaints from residents and reports from security staff about safety hazards and property damage. 'After receiving strong feedback from many in the Victory Heights community, the Owners Committee communicated its view to SOAMS, our management company, that a ban would be in the best interest of public safety,' the OC said. The decision to impose a ban was taken after consultation with Dubai authorities.' Safety and property concerns According to OC members, there was a noticeable rise in behaviours that raised legitimate safety and property concerns — such as riding through pedestrian areas, damaging landscaped zones, and evading community security controls. These incidents were reported by residents and observed by staff. After discussing the situation and hearing from concerned residents, the Owners Committee shared its recommendation with SOAMS that a ban be implemented to help protect the community environment. KT reached out to SOAMS to understand the procedure followed in enforcing the ban. However, a response is still awaited. The Dubai Community Management was clear about why they prohibited the use of e-scooters and e-bikes in the Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) community in August 2024. Battery-powered mobility devices were banned on the ground and plaza levels of The Walk to ensure the safety of residents and visitors. Public safety or curbing freedom While some residents support the ban, others feel it unfairly targets young riders and limits their freedom. Lukas Petre, who lived in Victory Heights for 16 years, said, 'The ban feels unfair. Teenagers should be out socialising and hanging out in their community. Riding helps me manage stress from my studies and has introduced me to many new people. It's just a small group of irresponsible riders causing issues — they should be held accountable, not those of us who ride safely.' The high school student who rides an e-bike argued, 'Dubai has a problem of unsafe drivers, so if e-bikes are being banned, then cars should be too; they cause far more casualties and fatalities. I believe e-bikes actually help teenagers to be more social and active outside the home.' In response to such sentiments from young residents, the Victory Heights' Owners Committee said that the decision was not made lightly. 'We completely understand that e-bikes offer young people a sense of fun and freedom. However, the decision to recommend a ban came only after ongoing safety and behavioural concerns were raised by many residents. This was not about limiting enjoyment but about protecting shared spaces and ensuring the well-being of everyone in the community.' Riders must adhere to the law However, most communities in the UAE do not restrict access to micromobility. Emma Brain, a media professional living in Al Ghadeer Village, advocates for the responsible use of such transport and encourages riders to adhere to the law. 'Community management should operate by UAE laws, which clearly state that children under 16 are not permitted to ride e-scooters,' she said. 'Yet, most of the children we see riding them are not wearing any protective gear. They are completely unaware of road rules and have no understanding of how to ride safely on roads or sidewalks.' She proposes stricter measures before riders take the road: 'Everyone should be required to study and pass a test before they're allowed to buy an e-scooter or e-bike. Right now, they're an absolute menace and a danger to other road users and pedestrians.' Residents expressed concerns over reckless riding, citing sudden road switching, a lack of safety gear, and near misses with vehicles. Gaurav Nandkeolyar, a resident of Dubai Investment Park (DIP-1), said, 'They don't stick to one path. Sometimes, they are on the footpath, then suddenly, they switch to the main road and ride like motorbikes. And then they randomly hop back onto the footpath without any signal. Most riders don't wear helmets or reflective gear, and they often shoot across pedestrian crossings without warning.' Long-time Abu Dhabi resident Taha (full name withheld) expressed concern over the risks posed by erratic riders. 'Their movements are so unpredictable, and many ride with no regard for safety, weaving through traffic without care. If an accident happens, it's the driver who will likely be blamed.' Emma urges parents and community management to be accountable: 'Parents need to be responsible (for their kids' actions), and management needs to align with the UAE laws and enforce them. It is only a matter of time before we see a serious injury or death of someone in the community." Not a nuisance; convenient micromobility Lukas acknowledged the concerns around e-bike safety but highlighted the lack of proper infrastructure for young riders in communities. 'I understand the safety concerns, especially for pedestrians. However, e-bike riders often lack dedicated spaces to ride. People complain when we use sidewalks, roads, or even dirt trails. If e-bikes are being legally sold in the UAE, then their use should be supported with proper infrastructure — it's that simple.' Despite the concerns and frustrations residents raised, there is another side to the spectrum where micromobility is seen not as a nuisance but as a convenient and sustainable solution for urban commuting. Dubai resident Akheel Hassan shared, 'When we moved houses, it was still within the same community, but the Green Community in DIP-1 is quite large. For our helper, getting to our new home meant a brisk 20-minute walk each way. As she was dealing with health issues, she couldn't walk as quickly. We looked for ways to make things easier and turned to an e-scooter. Now, she zips around the community on her scooter, cutting through gardens and walkways. I'm happy e-scooters are permitted here, especially in the summer; it would be incredibly difficult for such commuters.' For many, it offers a flexible and cost-effective solution for last-mile connectivity and everyday errands. Sri Lankan domestic worker Dammika Damayanthi said the e-scooter has been a great help for her daily routine: 'Instead of walking for 10 minutes, I can now reach work in just two. It's made my life so much easier, and I use it to go everywhere.' Comprehensive regulations required As the debate continues, an expert stressed that instead of blanket bans, what is urgently needed is a comprehensive framework focused on regulation, education, and enforcement. Thomas Edelmann, founder and managing director of RoadSafetyUAE, told KT, 'Micromobility serves an undeniable purpose. There appears to be a public outcry about the reckless behaviour, especially regarding youngsters using e-scooters and e-bikes. Regulation needs urgent attention. The current regulations should be updated to clearly define where e-scooters, e-bikes, and especially e-motorbikes are permitted. To date, only a handful of areas have been officially designated by the RTA. When it comes to enforcement, riders who break the rules must be held responsible.' He emphasised that adult riders must lead by example, while schools, parents, and community staff should play an active role in awareness and accountability. As seen in the past with the ban on hoverboards due to public nuisance, he warned that if left unchecked, e-motorbikes could follow the same path — unless stronger safety measures and licensing requirements are swiftly introduced.
