Bolt, an Estonian mobility company, has announced that it will be launching two new shared electric bike schemes in Wexford Town and Bray, Ireland, in spring this year.
Bolt has already established bike rental schemes in Sligo and Kilkenny, with this new expansion bringing its total Irish fleet to 400 electric bikes across four towns.
The company has allocated 200 e-bikes for the year-long pilots, with up to 100 being assigned to each town.
What’s more, the installation in Bray will make it the first Irish location where the Bolt app provides both taxis and e-bikes.
Since the e-bike schemes launched in the summer of 2022 in Sligo and Kilkenny, more than 105,000 km (65,243 miles) have reportedly been travelled on Bolt’s e-bikes.
What’s more, Bolt claims that its schemes have saved 14,800km (9,196 miles) worth of car trips in Ireland to date, which represents savings of approximately 1,545kg of CO2.
The Irish government recently committed to promoting e-mobility solutions across town and cities, with micromobility schemes offering a more sustainable travel alternative.
Erika Doyle, councillor and cathaoirleach of Bray Municipal District, said: “With a number of cycle schemes planned for the area, such as linking the stunning seafront and harbour area with neighbouring Dun Laoghaire Rathdown and a cycle link planned with Greystones, Bray is the perfect location for a shared electric bike scheme.
“Aside from being a sustainable alternative to car trips, electric bikes can offer a more accessible option for many.”
Claire Goodwin, cycling and walking officer from Wexford County Council, said: “Wexford County Council is delighted to provide local residents and visitors with a sustainable mode of transport.
“We are seeing a real enthusiasm for making the change from private car use if there is a convenient and affordable alternative.
“With the introduction of Bolt’s Bikes on a trial basis for Wexford town, we hope people will try them out and perhaps change how they travel, where possible.”
