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<\/p>\nE-SCOOTER operator Beam Mobility has been appointed to run a 12-month hire trial in urban Bendigo from late May.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Mayor Andrea Metcalf said the city was delighted to have Beam Mobility on board for the trial.<\/p>\n
“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.<\/p>\n
“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.”<\/p>\n
Beam Mobility is regarded as the largest shared e-scooter provider in Australia, with operations in every state and territory.<\/p>\n
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Its general manager for Australia and New Zealand, Tom Cooper, said the company was thrilled with the appointment.<\/p>\n
“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.<\/p>\n
“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.<\/p>\n
“We are confident that our experience across other Australian markets will ensure operations are a success.”<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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