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Ebike Boom Quadruples: Cities Demand Government Aid
3 May
Summary
- Shared ebikes in Australia have quadrupled to nearly 25,000 in under two years.
- Higher fuel prices are driving increased usage of shared ebikes.
- Operators are seeking government assistance to meet growing demand.
The number of shared ebikes in Australia has quadrupled in less than two years, now approaching 25,000. This surge is largely attributed to higher fuel prices, prompting more Australians to seek alternative transport options.
Lime, the dominant operator, has expanded its presence to cities like Melbourne, Brisbane, and Canberra, and is requesting government assistance to scale its operations. Usage has notably increased in cities experiencing fuel price hikes.
New South Wales has been particularly supportive, with Sydney's ebike fleet growing significantly. The state's transport minister highlighted benefits for congestion, the environment, and commuters. Sydney's fleet more than doubled, powering over 40,000 trips daily in April, primarily in the CBD.
Operators recall past challenges with public perception and regulatory gaps, but modern ebikes are more robust, and safety records remain high. Despite some clutter issues, companies are innovating with subscription models to attract commuters, aiming to integrate with public transport ticketing systems.
