Gloucestershire’s e-scooter trial with Zwings will be extended for another two years, following a positive 12-month initial test period.
The scooters were part of a national trial by the Department for Transport supported by Gloucestershire County Council.
E-scooters ‘have the potential to help with reducing carbon emissions, lowering pollution levels… and lowering congestion’, according to Gloucestershire County Council. Zwings claim that the average scooter creates only 97 grams of CO2 per mile, whilst the average car produces 450 grams.
The scooters were especially useful during the pandemic, providing a socially distanced method of transportation whilst being affordable.
Zwings are currently operating in Gloucester, Cheltenham and south Somerset, but are looking to expand to other locations in the UK.
The scooters, which are rented via an app, have a 15mph speed limit and GPS trackers which means they can be easily located. You must also be at least 16 or over and have a provisional or full driving license. They can be used on the road, except motorways, and in cycle lanes.
Cllr David Gray, the cabinet member for environment and transport at Gloucestershire County Council, spoke to Gloucester News Centre. “E-scooters are an exciting part of the future of green travel and I am pleased to hear the trial is being renewed. Gloucestershire is fighting hard to tackle climate change and improve air quality for our residents and e-scooters are part of that effort, offering clean and inexpensive travel, especially for younger people. The trial is an opportunity to try out operating models for the scooters, including extra safety measures, helping to ensure that everyone can get around our towns and cities safely.”
