E-scooter trial operator appointed

E-SCOOTER operator Beam Mobility has been appointed to run a 12-month hire trial in urban Bendigo from late May.

The City of Greater Bendigo selected Beam Mobility after a ‘Public Request for Quotation’ process earlier this year. The trial will be formally launched next month.

Mayor Andrea Metcalf said the city was delighted to have Beam Mobility on board for the trial.

“Beam is well-versed in operating e-scooter hire schemes and will bring their knowledge and expertise to Bendigo’s 12-month trial,” Cr Metcalf said.

“The e-scooters will provide an accessible and sustainable transport option for short trips that will allow residents and visitors to explore urban Bendigo in a new way, improve connectivity between significant precincts and destinations, and stimulate new business and tourism opportunities.”

Beam Mobility is regarded as the largest shared e-scooter provider in Australia, with operations in every state and territory.

Its general manager for Australia and New Zealand, Tom Cooper, said the company was thrilled with the appointment.

“Data from our other Australian operations shows a shift from cars to a preference for e-scooters for shorter trips under 5km, and we look forward to seeing the same trend in Bendigo,” Mr Cooper said.

“We know e-scooters are new to the community, and we are committed to working closely with the local community to ensure riders know their responsibilities.

“We are confident that our experience across other Australian markets will ensure operations are a success.”

Beam Mobility has developed a draft rollout plan with a tentative e-scooter operating area, supported by customer service and education for riders. It plans to hold further consultations with the city, businesses and landlords to confirm suitable locations for e-scooter parking and placements.

The maximum travel speed for the e-scooters will be 20kmh for roads and on Bendigo’s established shared bike paths (they are not permitted on footpaths under Victorian rules), and Beam Mobility will identify ‘no-go’ or ‘slow speed (10kmh)’ zones where there is a concentration of activities and high pedestrian volumes.

When the trial starts, e-scooters will be available for hire by downloading a Beam Mobility app and scanning QR codes on the vehicles to begin a ride. Payment will be on a ‘pay-as-you-go’ basis.

E-scooter riders in Victoria must be aged at least 16 years.