Transport for London (TfL) has begun to investigate the possibilities of a digital platform to support micromobility rental services in the capital.
They would be used to support the provision of lightweight vehicles for low or zero emissions – such as bikes, e-bikes and e-scooters – for personal transport.
TfL has put out feelers to the industry with a prior information notice regarding a micromobility contract platform to support the management of relevant services. The notice says the organisation wants to understand the extent of features available and how they could be customised.
Since 2021 it has been running a trial of e-scooter rentals, which currently involves two operators in 10 participating boroughs. It has a data management tool for the trial, which is used by the boroughs to manage the zones and no-go areas, monitor the performance of operators and collect key data.
TfL is now looking at whether a similar approach could be used for e-bikes, which are currently unregulated in London.
Responses not binding
The notice says it does not form part of a formal procurement and that the responses will not bind TfL to any particular approach – but they may be taken into account in any further procurement.
The move has been prompted partly by a government proposal to create a new category of ‘low speed, zero emission’ vehicles, which would provide new powers for local transport authorities to shape and manage rental operations. The legislation is currently on hold.
