A leading e-transport operator is set to take charge of delivering more affordable and environmentally friendly transport options in the region.
The business has been selected to provide e-scooters and e-bikes in Maroochydore and Mooloolaba as part of an 18-month trial with Sunshine Coast Council.
A gradual roll-out of up to 400 of Neuron Mobility’s purpose-built e-scooters and up to 75 e-bikes available for hire will start in June.
It is hoped the e-transport initiative will reduce the reliance on cars for short journeys.
In December last year the council called for expressions of interest for an operator to take part in the trial, which will focus on more suitable, innovative and safer transport options.
In a council press release it said Neuron Mobility’s proposal stood out for its level of service, understanding of the Sunshine Coast market and commitments to safety and community engagement.
While e-scooter safety has come into question in the region this year, a council report put forward with the trial proposal last year identified the highest safety risk was privately owned e-scooters.
It noted that commercial operators could regulate the operation of its e-scooter fleet using high-tech safety features.
Neuron Mobility is an e-mobility share program provider with significant experience nationally and in Queensland, operating in Brisbane, Bundaberg, Rockhampton, Townsville, and Yeppoon.
The company says it will invest significantly into the region, creating about 30 local jobs.
Neuron Mobility regional manager Tim Morris said the company was delighted to have been chosen.
“e-scooters and e-bikes are really well suited to Maroochydore and Mooloolaba and will be a great way for locals and tourists to travel in a safe, convenient and environmentally friendly way,” he said.
“Safety is our top priority; it dictates our e-scooter and e-bike design and also the way we operate them.
“Both are packed with a range of cutting-edge safety features and we know from experience in other cities that riders really appreciate this.”
Council CEO Emma Thomas has welcomed the transport trial, which she said was in line with council’s Environment and Liveability Strategy and would enhance the Sunshine Coast lifestyle.
“Council aims to strike a balance between the natural environment and the transport needs of residents across the Coast,” she said.
Neuron Mobility will now undertake community education and awareness campaigns to promote safe e-bike and e-scooter use, including ‘share the path’ initiatives.
Advanced geofencing technology will control where the e-scooters and e-bikes will be ridden and how fast they can travel in certain areas.
Geofencing will also ensure they are parked in one of the designated parking locations across the city.
The distinctive orange e-scooters feature an app-controlled helmet lock, triple-0 emergency button that can detect if someone has a fall, and voice guidance to educate and warn riders of how to ride safely.
There is also a Follow My Ride feature that allows riders to share their trip with friends and family in real time.
All riders will need to adhere to the road rules and comply with all other Department of Transport and Main Roads requirements. A full list of rules for personal mobility devices is available online.
Riders will be able to book and use the e-scooters and e-bikes through Neuron’s app from June, which can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play.
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