[title]
This summer, speed demons on two wheels will have a lot more bikes to choose from, as a new e-bike company is launching in London.
Ride-hailing app Bolt has announced it will bring more electric bicycles to the capital this August, and riders will be able to book them through the Bolt app. Lime is going to have some competition, as the Bolt bikes will come in a cool pale green.
RECOMMENDED: I went to Lime’s ‘biggest e-bike factory in Europe’ and was amazed at what I saw.
The company said that instead of charging riders by time, Bolt bike journeys will be costed by distance instead. According to Bolt, this will make rides ‘safer as people don’t feel they need to rush from A to B to save money.’
Bolt also addressed the issues around e-bike parking in the capital, as a number of councils have said they want to ban Lime bikes because they are often parked badly, obstructing pavements and walkways.
The incoming bike company said riders will be fined for parking Bolt bikes incorrectly. ‘Users will also have a score that will go up or down depending on how well they park,’ a spokesperson said.
‘Bolt’s AI powered parking system and geofencing will ensure users cannot park outside mandatory parking zones. The Bolt app will also direct users to the nearest available parking spot, and if they have not parked appropriately, they will be provided with relevant instructions.
‘These measures aim to keep pavements clear and ensure Bolt contributes positively to the urban landscape, and doesn’t add to the problem.’
Will Norman, London’s walking and cycling commissioner, said: ‘I’m pleased to see that Bolt will be prioritising responsible parking and safety, to ensure the scheme works for everyone.
‘The Mayor and I welcome government plans to give cities powers to better manage dockless e-bike schemes. It is vital improved safety sits at the heart of any future regulation so these schemes work well for everyone and the industry thrives.’
It’s official: London has become a worse place to live.
Oxford Street’s pedestrianisation just took a major step towards actually happening.
Get the latest and greatest from the Big Smoke – from news and reviews to events and trends. Just follow our Time Out London WhatsApp channel.
Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out London newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox.