Mobike expands into Islington with latest London launch

Mobike, the world’s first largest and smart sustainable bikeshare is expanding its scheme in London, with 200 bikes rolling out in Islington today.

The launch is a product of cooperation between Mobike, Islington council and other local stakeholders, and follows the recent Mobike launch in West London’s borough of Ealing.

Mobike’s scheme provides a sustainable and affordable service which is designed to benefit users, local business and communities, as well as the council itself.

Steve Pyer, UK general manager for Mobike, said: “Islington is an important milestone in growing our presence in London. Islington is a stylish, multi-generational borough - and already has a strong cycling culture.

“Working with forward-thinking local authorities, such as Islington is an essential part of the way we operate, as we believe relationships with public transport organisations, council representatives, mayoral teams and other stakeholders is vital to bikesharing success.”

In Islington yesterday (November 23), people were greeted by members from Islington council and Mobike’s UK team, who will help introduce first-time users to the distinctive bright orange and silver bikes. Mobike will look to expand the scheme beyond 200 bikes in Islington as demand for the convenient and affordable transport option grows.

Cllr Claudia Webbe, Islington Council’s executive member for environment and transport, said: “Bike-sharing is rapidly becoming an easy option for thousands more residents and visitors who want to get around quickly, cheaply and conveniently.

“These schemes are now part of the public transport mix in Islington - car ownership is already among the lowest in London and we have been working hard for many years to make the borough a safer and more attractive place to cycle”.

Every Mobike is equipped with smart-lock technology and built-in GPS connected via the Mobike IoT network, which helps to locate and monitor the health of each bike to ensure a constant supply and quality experience for users.

Additionally, the data generated by the fleet can provide invaluable urban transportation insights for cities and local communities, to manage location-based bike demand and inform infrastructure planning.

The bikeshare company announced a nationwide partnership with British Cycling earlier this year, with the goal of getting 2m more people on bikes in UK by 2020.