Neuron e-scooter riders in Newcastle, northeast England, have ridden over a million miles as the shared operator celebrates its second birthday.
Cormac Quinn, Neuron Mobility’s UK Regional Manager, told Zag Daily that the experience has taught the company valuable lessons on how to better integrate the service with public transportation.
“We have partnered with the Council, the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) and Thomas Pocklington Trust (TPT), to ensure the e-scooter trial is integrated into the city in the best possible way and to encourage responsible riding,” said Quinn.
“We’ve also been proud to generate employment and training opportunities in the area, including the UK’s first micromobility apprenticeships. As we look to the future, we’re excited to continue working closely with the community and city leaders to ensure that Neuron’s e-scooter programme continues to benefit Newcastle’s economy and environment.”
Zag’s data shows that there have been close to one million journeys in Newcastle, which is in the top 10 highest ridership counts in the UK.
The anniversary follows news that Neuron’s popular e-scooter trial is to be extended until May 2024, alongside the introduction of a new parking model, which means that riders are required to park at a designated area to better integrate e-scooters in the city.
Local impact
According to a recent Neuron rider survey, 97% of users have said the scheme has created a positive impact on the city.
Newcastle residents said that they have integrated e-scooters into their daily lives, using them for commuting (40%), errands (28%) and appointments (20%).
Additionally, the study showed that 40% of e-scooter trips replaced car journeys, which according to the company has helped avoid 103 tonnes of CO2 from entering the atmosphere.
The report Shared Rides, Shared Wealth also revealed that these trips are boosting the local economy too.
E-scooter riders spend an average of £17.80 per trip at local businesses, resulting in £11,900 per e-scooter and a total of £8.9 million annually in Newcastle.
Cllr Jane Byrne, Cabinet Member for Connected Clean City at Newcastle City Council, said: “We’re pleased to see local residents are using e-scooters as a convenient way to get around while leaving the car at home. They have become an essential part of our efforts to improve Newcastle’s air quality and tackle climate change.”
