Spin, the micromobility unit of Ford Motor Company, and Essex County Council will extend its e-scooter hire schemes in Essex until March 2022, aligning with the updated Department for Transport legislation.
In agreement with the local authority districts, Spin will continue to offer short term hire to riders in Basildon, Chelmsford and Colchester. Its long-term e-scooter rental schemes in Brentwood and Braintree will also carry on until at least next March.
Peter Blackman, chair of Essex e-scooter trial stakeholder group, said: “The extension of the trial is sensible and welcome as it will provide more time to implement and examine the efficacy of ongoing improvements arising from the constructive dialogue our group is having with Spin and Essex County Council.
“Plus, the Essex experiences are influencing the national framework. By the end of the extended trial, we trust legislation will be forthcoming to provide a smooth transfer from trial to the permanent, but continually improving, safe use of legitimate e-scooters and eradication of the dangerous illegal private ones. In accordance with the recently revised Highway Code, users of all e-vehicles must assume all pedestrians they see may be visually impaired, deaf, frail or have a disability.”
Rider data has revealed Spin e-scooters are most often used for short journeys, on average 3km in distance and 23 minutes in length, with 82% of riders stating they have used a Spin e-scooter to replace a solo drive car journey at least once already. The micromobility operator added this is aiding Essex County Council in its goal to lower carbon emissions across the region as part of its Safer, Greener, Healthier campaign.
Steve Pyer, UK&I country manager at Spin, said: “Our community-centred, consultative approach with local authorities and collaboration with the Essex e-scooter trial stakeholder group demonstrates that micromobility solutions can provide a safe, sustainable, and reliable service that meet the needs of all residents.”
However, Spin will conclude the trial in Clacton-on-Sea by the end of this month. The eight-month trial has seen nearly 6,000 riders opted for Spin’s greener transport option, clocking up 37,500 journeys. Spin said out of these riders, 40 work for the NHS, and were able to take advantage of its Everyday Heroes’ free rides. A further 20 riders were on low income and benefited from Spin Access’ subsidised rates.
