E-scooters seemed destined to stay in Logan, with American company Helbiz launching various new safety features for their e-scooters.
The company is expanding to Australia, and Logan is the first port of call following a landmark partnership with Logan City Council.
Following several months of negotiation, council has granted Helbiz a one-year license to operate up to 400 e-scooters and 400 e-bikes from late this month.
Managing director Mitchell Price said operations would protect riders, pedestrians and other road users by leveraging their AI-powered HelmetChecker, accurate geofencing capabilities and community education campaigns.
“We have our helmet technology, which has AI built into it so not only does the helmet need to be on your head, but the clip needs to be done up under your chin,” Mr Price said.
“That is a feature which we will be having in Logan, as well as ensuring that every scooter has a helmet.
“The Helbiz e-scooter is also equipped with turning indicators which are an industry first in Australia.
“The Max Plus X e-scooters have a geofence accuracy with a 0.06 second response time to immediately identify and respond to slow or no ride zones.”
Mr Price said e-scooters would be powered by 100% clean energy and would reduce congestion as well as single-occupant motor vehicle trips.
“If we can get more people out of cars and onto e-scooters to run errands, see friends or go to public transport, it will result in less congestion and a better outcome for the environment, which is a healthier, sustainable city in Logan.”
It’s the second trial of its kind in six months after Beam Mobility Australia was signed up in November.
“We will be looking to partner with Beam to do joint safety events. We have a very good relationship with them here in Australia, so we’ll be making sure where we can, we can work together,” Mr Price said.
“Our plan is to roll out citywide, not just in Logan Central where Beam is, and where we also will be.”
In the coming weeks and throughout the initial months of the operation, Helbiz will host community ‘free ride’ events that invite experienced and first-time riders to try out the electronic vehicles and learn more about how to operate them safely.
Helbiz will receive a 12-month license to operate e-scooters and e-bikes. Its license in Logan is the company’s first direct partnership with an Australian city.
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