Steer presents vision to boost London’s already booming bikeshare schemes with new report

London, UK - Steer, the renowned transport consultancy, has unveiled a groundbreaking report in partnership with Lime Technology Ltd., whose green bicycles are a common sight on city streets across the world. This comprehensive report, for the first time uses Lime e-bike service data from January 2019 to March 2023, in addition to a rider survey data, to assess the contribution made by Lime e-bikes in London supporting across the following themes: 

• Accessibility 

• Connectivity 

• Active Travel 

• Modal Shift.  

Embracing the call for a greener and more accessible urban landscape, Steer supports plans for a London-wide e-bike regulatory framework in collaboration with Transport for London (TfL) and London Councils and highlights five key recommendations to support the underlying demand for travel by bike while ensuring the service works well for both riders and pavement users, in particular those with access issues.  

The report presents for the first time highlights the popularity of Lime's e-bike service among Londoners and visitors to the city alike. With over 1.25 million riders taking over 12 million e-bike trips from January 2019 to March 2023, Lime's presence has experienced significant growth , showing the demand for more sustainable transportation. 

Lime's e-bike journeys can help to meet environmental goals and make London’s streets healthier for people and the planet. Lime e-bikes have enabled a reduction in motor vehicle usage, replacing approximately 2.6 million kilometres of car and taxi travel. This has resulted in a reduction of 370 tonnes of CO2 emissions and 48 kilograms of PM 2.5 particulate matter, a key contributor to poor air quality.  

Key statistics from the report include: 

• More than 1.25 million riders  

• More than 12 million e-bike trips 

• 2.6 million km of motor vehicle (excluding public transport) journeys taken off the road 

• 37 tonnes of CO2 and 48 kg of particulate matter reduced  

• 70% of riders use London’s bike lane network  

Beyond these numbers, Steer's analysis highlights the impact of Lime's e-bike service on the accessibility, connectivity and equity of both London’s transportation and the city itself. By providing access to e-bikes in areas with more limited public transport options, Lime has effectively improved transportation access for residents, fostering a more connected city. Additionally, Lime's presence in areas with higher levels of deprivation has played a crucial role in addressing transport disparities, promoting a more equitable travel experience for all. 

The report also underscores Lime's commitment to active travel, in line with London Mayor Sadiq Khan’s vision to have 80% of trips made through walking, cycling, or public transport by 2041. More than 60% of Lime riders have embraced cycling more frequently, with female riders demonstrating a particular uptake in adopting e-bikes. Furthermore, Lime's e-bike service contributes to increased usage of London's bike lane network, with nearly 70% of Lime riders opting for bike lanes during their journeys. 

What are Steer’s recommendations to maximise the benefits of shared e-bikes?  

Considering the report's findings, Steer presents five recommendations aimed at fostering the continued growth of shared e-bike services, emphasising the need for a seamless and convenient experience for users and non-users alike.  

Steer supports plans for a London-wide shared e-bike service with standardised service areas and consistent parking and riding rules. Additionally, we recommend the creation of a high density of designated parking locations - totalling over 10,000 new parking spots which will ensure strong usage, convenience, and safety for riders and pavement users, including those with access issues. 

Key recommendations include: 

• London-wide shared e-bike service  

• High density designated parking spaces  

• Investment of £20 million from public and private stakeholders  

• Regular sharing of usage data  

Steer recommends a collective investment of approximately £20 million from shared e-bike providers and local authorities to create these parking locations, supported in the short term with the use of existing cycle parking to recognise the significant investment required. While these improvements are made, Steer recommends operators implement time and location-specific in-app rider education features to ensure compliance with diverse e-bike regulations. 

Furthermore, to support London's ambitious bicycle infrastructure investments, shared e-bike providers are encouraged to share regular usage data on cycling infrastructure. This data-driven approach will enable authorities to identify areas where additional infrastructure enhancements can further promote cycling, fostering a safer and more enjoyable experience for everyone. 

 “This report quantifies for the first time the popularity of Lime shared e-bikes in London and highlights how Lime e-bikes support improving accessibility and connectivity and increasing active travel and modal shift. The report also highlights recommendations to support the growth in cycling considering both the needs of riders and pedestrians, particularly those with access issues.” says Matthew Clark, Associate Director.   

“With close partnership working between operators, Transport for London, London Councils and London borough the strong demand for shared e-bikes can be unlocked. Together this will support a world-class sustainable transport system for all Londoners and visitors through the combination of active travel and public transport, where the need to use a private car is much reduced.”  

View the full report here.