Shared sustainable transport provider, Beryl and the Isle of Wight Council are this week celebrating the third anniversary of the Isle of Wight’s e-scooter pilot scheme.
Launched on 12th November 2020, the Department for Transport-sanctioned trial has amassed over 146,000 journeys across more than 458,000 km – the equivalent of almost 11.5 trips around the Earth. These journeys have replaced over 40,000 private transport journeys, including those as a driver or a passenger in a car, van, taxi or motorbike.
19 tonnes of carbon emissions saved
According to industry calculations, this has saved over 19 tonnes of carbon emissions, the equivalent of approximately 7,500 litres of petrol.
The trial, one of a number of DfT-sanctioned schemes across the UK, was recently extended to run until May 2024.
Ellis: Particularly useful for first and last mile journeys
Beryl CEO and co-founder, Phil Ellis, said,
“Our mission is to break down the barriers to sustainable transport and encourage people to adopt more sustainable transport habits.
“As we reach three years on the island, the numbers show that our e-scooters have been successful in helping us to achieve this and it’s great news that the trial will continue for another 18 months.
“As well as being fun, easy to use and cost-effective, they provide a sustainable alternative to the car that helps reduce traffic congestion, cuts harmful carbon dioxide emissions and improves air quality.
“They’re particularly useful for first and last mile journeys and a great way to connect with other urban transport systems or to commute to and from the office.”
Jordan: Long may it continue
Councillor Phil Jordan, Leader of Isle of Wight Council said,
“We are pleased with the continued success of the Beryl e-scooter scheme. It has helped us deliver sustainable transport options for residents and visitors and the expansion of the scheme has made it even easier for people to choose to travel on a cleaner and greener vehicle that reduces congestion on our road network.
“The scooters and the e-bikes have become part of the wider travelling options and tourist offer alike and continue to deliver affordability and sustainability for our Island. I am truly pleased to be able to celebrate three years of operation already. Long may it continue.”
How to take part
During the e-scooter trial periods, riders are required to provide a valid UK Driving Licence to participate.
They are also asked to provide feedback on their experiences using the vehicles to support data learnings on operating the service.
Sign up to the App
To begin a trip with a Beryl e-scooter, users just need to follow the simple in-app directions to unlock the vehicle for use. At the end of their ride, users must lock the scooter via the app and will hear a chime from the scooter to register that it is locked. Beryl e-scooters available to hire are visible both on-street and in the app, with Beryl Bays and operating zones also shown in the app.
Beryl also currently operates the Beryl Bikes by Breeze scheme on the Island alongside Solent Transport and the Isle of Wight Council as part of the Solent Future Transport Zone.
News shared by Beryl, in their own words. Ed
