Self-propelled gadgets in developed European countries have long ceased to be mere entertainment. Residents of Birmingham, like those of other major cities, treat them as a full-fledged means of transportation. Why have electric scooters become particularly popular in recent years? And how does the programme implemented in Birmingham make them accessible to both locals and tourists? Read on at birmingham-future.
Reasons for Popularity
The main reason why Birmingham residents actively use scooters is their environmental friendliness. This mode of transport is considered an eco-friendly alternative to cars. The United Kingdom was one of the first countries to support the European Union’s goal of reducing carbon dioxide emissions. Electric scooters do not require fuel at all, which positively impacts the environment.
Other reasons for the popularity of electric scooters in Birmingham include:
- Time-saving. Birmingham, a densely populated city in the United Kingdom, is one of the most congested cities, with heavy traffic on the roads. Using electric scooters is an excellent way to navigate these conditions.
- Cost efficiency. Travelling by electric scooter is much more economical than using a private car or even public transport.
- Integration with other modes of transport. Many Birmingham residents use scooters to get from one form of transport to another. For example, if there is a long distance between a bus stop and a railway station, instead of walking, one can cover it on a scooter.
A decisive factor in the popularity of electric scooters in Birmingham has been the scooter-sharing service introduced in the city.
Electric Scooter Sharing Programme
Birmingham City Council selected Beryl as the operator for scooter rentals in the city. To use the service, users need to download the app onto their smartphone. Beryl offers scooter rides under various terms and provides several pricing plans.
Tourists in Birmingham, who use these scooters for city sightseeing, most often choose pay-per-ride tariffs. The fare depends on the number of minutes travelled. Additionally, a small amount is deducted before departure as an unlocking fee.
Residents of Birmingham who regularly use electric scooters opt for different tariffs. Most of these plans offer a fixed number of hours. By paying once for a service package, users do not need to pay for unlocking before each ride.
Special docking stations for electric scooters are available in all areas of Birmingham. These stations allow users to pick up or return a scooter. The Beryl app helps locate the nearest station. Within a few years of the programme’s implementation, electric scooters have become an integral part of Birmingham’s transport network.
Rules for Using Electric Scooters in Birmingham
According to UK law, electric scooters are classified as personal electric vehicles. Therefore, their use is permitted under the following conditions:
- The rider must be at least 18 years old.
- A valid driving licence is required.
- Scooters can only be used on bicycle lanes or roads, in compliance with traffic regulations.
To ensure maximum safety, the Beryl scooter-sharing programme has introduced a driving licence scanning technology. When registering a new mobile device, users must scan their driving licence and take a selfie for identification.
Additionally, to promote safe riding, Beryl offers training courses. These courses are available in both online and offline formats. Participants can learn safety rules, receive practical advice, and gain useful recommendations.