The Beryl Annual Rider Report has found that the Isle of Wight is seeing greater integration with wider transport networks and a decline in private vehicle use.
The findings were obtained from 138 riders across the Isle of Wight in September 2022.
Connecting
One of the standout findings is a huge increase in riders connecting their Beryl trips with public transport, with 69 per cent compared to just 15 per cent in 2021.
The average distance of these journeys is less than 2.5km, indicating the growing importance of bikeshare as an option for first and last mile journeys.
Another key finding is that practicality has overtaken pleasure, with convenience (32 per cent) now the most common reason for people signing up.
In 2021, novelty and trying new things was the biggest reason, but this has more than halved from 49 per cent to just 24 per cent this year.
Costs
Cost has doubled in importance this year, accounting for 20 per cent of the reasons people signed up.
As usage for practical purposes grows, car usage decreases, with 44 per cent of all riders stating that they have reduced their car usage since trying Beryl e-scooters, an increase from 32 per cent last year.
Beryl CEO and co-founder, Phil Ellis, said that the findings reflect external factors and show that people are recognising the value of shared micromobility schemes as a more cost-effective, practical and convenient alternative to private vehicle ownership.
Cllr Phil Jordan, Cabinet Member for Infrastructure, Highways PFI and Transport, said that he is delighted to see a shift in how e-scooters are being integrated into everyday activities, especially as part of an overall journey that will benefit the environment and aspirations to promote sustainable travel modes.
Increase
Other findings from the report include an increase in the amount of people using Beryl to commute, from 23 per cent last year to 43 cent this year. The use of Beryl for errands, shopping and education/school runs has also increased.
The survey was sent to riders via email and within the Beryl app. Of those who responded on the Island, 30 per cent had signed up but not yet taken a ride, while 70 per cent had taken at least one ride.
