Micromobility service provider Bolt has announced plans to deploy 16,000 new e-bikes across more than 30 European cities.
Bolt has already launched e-bikes in Madrid, Stockholm, Düsseldorf, Cologne, Oslo and Krakow in 2022 and is currently operating e-scooter and e-bike fleets in 200 cities across Europe, up from 170 cities at the beginning of the years.
The announcement comes after Bolt registered 500% growth in the number of scooter rides 12 months year-on-year, and a €150m (£128m) investment in its micromobility business to grow its scooter and e-bike operations.
Dmitri Pivovarov, vice president for rentals at Bolt, said: “We see scooters and e-bikes as the future of mobility in cities. Micromobility creates a positive impact on people and cities. Riders can beat the traffic and move around quickly and efficiently. Cities benefit from better air quality and less congestion.
“That’s why we’re proud to announce the expansion of our e-bikes and the growth of our micromobility offering to over 200 cities across Europe as we continue to offer more sustainable alternatives to private car ownership.”
The latest e-bike model introduced by Bolt has a lifespan of up to five years and is produced from recyclable aluminium. It also has a swappable battery, which is designed to make it easier to charge, and thereby reportedly results in a lower carbon footprint as the e-bikes do not need to be frequently transported to a warehouse for charging.
Bolt e-bikes come with safety features including solid rear and front wheel drum brakes to help control the speed and puncture-proof pneumatic tyres. The e-bikes can reach speeds of up to 25km/h (15.5mph), but the top speed can be limited to comply with regulations in different cities. A high-capacity battery offers a range of up to 90km (56 miles) per charge.
The e-bikes are also equipped with a functional dashboard providing riders with information about speed, battery level and speed zones. Other features include a wireless phone charger located on the handlebar and GPS to help users locate the bikes easier on the street.
Bolt has also launched an in-app cognitive reaction test that aims to prevent users from riding an e-bike or scooter while intoxicated.
