Lime is gearing up to launch electric mopeds in cities in the U.S. and Europe this spring. This last mile transportation option is seen as key for the company as it looks to make a larger footprint in reducing trips under five miles, which according to their research, account for nearly 60 percent of all car trips in the U.S. and U.K.
“The addition of electric mopeds to our fleet of e-bikes and e-scooters is another major step in our goal of ensuring access to affordable, carbon-free shared transportation in cities around the world” said Wayne Ting, CEO of Lime. “As the first micromobility provider to offer three vehicles on one platform, we’re excited to help cities and riders get moving again with safe, sustainable, and socially-distant transportation to serve any urban journey. Lime now offers a ride for any trip, at any time, in nearly any major city in the world, furthering our mission to foster people-first cities.”
Lime introduces the new E-moped
www.youtube.com
Lime has collaborated with the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) to design a multi-chapter rider safety e-course. That course must be completed by anyone before they are able to take a ride on Lime’s mopeds. Additionally, Lime is providing a practice guide with MSF-designed exercises that riders can use on their own to refine their riding skills and prepare themselves for various traffic situations. The guide provides step-by-step directions and tips on critical skills such as turning and emergency braking.
“As micromobility offerings diversify, and shift from cycling lanes onto busy city streets, MSF is stepping forward. MSF wants all Lime riders to be safe and have fun. We encourage them to take full advantage of Lime’s training offerings, and to always wear helmets and other riding gear,” said Robert Gladden, VP of training operations for MSF. “We applaud Lime’s decision to include rider education and safety training in their new electric moped program.”
Lime will also offer free, 45-minute in-person lessons for any rider that is interested in learning how to ride a moped. Lime notes the the lessons “will be taught by MSF-certified instructors in small class sizes and are designed to help riders get comfortable and confident with the fundamentals of riding, such as braking, turning, and parking.”
The fine print for rentals reads:
“Riders must be 21 or older to ride in the US, and 18 or older in Paris. To access Lime mopeds, riders must have a valid driver’s license, and take a photo of themselves to ensure it matches the driver’s license photo. Riders will be unable to access a moped if the photo does not match the driver’s license. Before beginning a ride, riders must also take a photo of themselves wearing a helmet, which must then be worn all times throughout a ride.”
Lime e-mopeds have a top speed of 28 mph and can travel up to 87 miles on a single charge.
