US-based micromobility company Bird has partnered with Scootaround, personal transportation solutions provider, to pilot an accessible mobility program that delivers eco-friendly transportation for everyone.
People with disabilities in New York will be able to find, reserve and pay for one of three accessible vehicle types using a custom rider interface available on the Bird app. Bird riders will receive exclusive pricing discounts and have unique access to Bird accessible vehicles including a power chair.
Available vehicles include both three- and four-wheel scooter options with attached basket for storage, as well as the WHILL Model Ci2 power chair.
“Scootaround and Bird share the fundamental belief that personal, accessible mobility should be available to everyone who needs it,” said Kerry Renaud, CEO of Scootaround.
“As micromobility options such as shared bikes and scooters continue to expand, we must ensure the benefits of these improved transportation networks be made as widely available as possible, including to persons with disabilities.
“Innovative partnership programs like this are an important part of that process, and we welcome Bird’s proactive participation in bringing them to life.”
The new Bird and Scootaround on-demand accessible mobility service will be rolled out in New York City this summer. Based on the results of the program, the collaboration intend to roll it out in additional cities throughout 2021. The pilot is part of a series of ongoing initiatives, including Bird’s Ramp Champ safety campaign, intended to ensure that micromobility works for everyone in the community.
