London’s Santander cycle hire scheme has increased by 900 e-bikes as part of a 200% fleet expansion.
The expansion is part of Transport for London’s (TfL) investment in the bikeshare service which will increase the number of e-bikes from 600 to 2,000 by the end of summer 2024.
More than one million hires have been made on the e-bikes since they were introduced in 2022, and the highest volume of e-bike users on a single day fell on June 27 last month with 3,584 hires.
“Cycling has grown considerably over the past two years, with a 20 per cent increase since 2019 alone. This is the fastest growing mode of transport by far and the Mayor and I have been working hard to meet this growing demand,” London’s Walking and Cycling Commissioner Will Norman told Zag Daily.
“Helping people to feel safe cycling in London is an important factor in increasing cycling numbers. TfL has reduced danger at 45 junctions across London as part of its Safer Junctions Programme and quadrupled the number of high-quality cycleways in London since 2016.
“Cycling levels continued to increase where we invested in new infrastructure; if we build it, we know people from all backgrounds will come and take advantage.”
The Walking and Cycling Commissioner highlighted TfL-funded training that’s available for all ages and targets adults who want to learn how to cycle for the first time, as well as Bikeability in schools. Last year, TfL awarded £575,000 of funding to 78 new community group projects through the London Walking and Cycling Grants programme which aims to increase participation in walking and cycling among traditionally underrepresented groups.
According to Centre for London CEO Antonia Jennings, another reason behind the growth in cycling levels is the pandemic.
The pandemic saw Londoners encouraged to walk and cycle, meaning for many active travel – like e-bike use – is now part of their routines,” Antonia told Zag Daily. “This encouragement has since been re-iterated by the Mayor and the Greater London Authority as part of their strategy to achieve net-zero by 2030. Specifically, they aim to have 80% of London journeys made by public transport, walking or cycling by 2041.”
The popularity of e-bikes can also be attributed to the cost of hiring them compared with taking public transport. Earlier this year, TfL introduced a £3 day pass which offers riders unlimited rides for under half an hour. For rides exceeding this length of time, a £1 fee per additional half hour is charged.
“TfL have kept the costs of their e-bikes relatively low in comparison to both private companies and tube fares – a Santander bike monthly subscription is £20, with a yearly subscription costing £120,” Antonia said.
“Governmental campaigns, infrastructure investment and a well-functioning service all combine to make e-bikes an increasingly attractive offer – especially in London where many do not own a car. While more work is required to fully connect London’s network of cycle lanes and tackle crashes on our roads, the progress made thus far is reflected in the popularity of these new modes of transport.”
Will Norman added: “The Mayor and I are committed to enabling even more Londoners to enjoy the benefits that cycling can bring, from improved health to cleaner air. We are delighted that the Santander e-bikes have been so popular, as these bikes play an important role in helping to break down some of the barriers that stop people from getting on a bike, including fitness, age and length of journey.”
