York joins sustainable transport revolution with European e-scooter partnership

A European e-scooter specialist has announced a new 12 month trial of its vehicles in Yorkshire.

TIER has partnered with City of York Council to implement the rental trial of its scooters across the city in a bid to encourage residents to use sustainable transport methods.

The Department for Transport-approved scheme will initially see 50 e-scooters deployed in the city, with the potential to increase to up to 700 after six months.

Cllr Andy D’Agorne, executive member for transport, commented: “This will provide a fantastic opportunity to explore how e-scooters might add to the mix of sustainable transport options, whilst helping to improve air quality and expand our electrical vehicle charging offer.

“The trial will also form part of the city’s Covid-19 response in terms of, for example, providing sustainable alternatives to support capacity on public transport across the city.

“We’re excited to approve the trial in York and to be working alongside TIER. Together we will ensure there are clear and effective channels of communication which are critically important to get early warning of any issues that need to be addressed, to assess the impact and to learn all the lessons from the trial.”

TIER UK general manager, Fred Jones, explained: “We are excited to be offering York residents and visitors a more sustainable way of travelling around the city, as people get to grips with new ways of navigating during Covid-19.

“Our e-scooters can bring great benefits to the city, including reducing air pollution and congestion. We look forward to rolling out more e-scooters in coming months.”

Professor Kiran Trehan, pro-vice-chancellor for partnership and engagement at the University of York added: “Sustainability is at the heart of the university’s principles.

“To be at the forefront of this pilot, and work with the City of York Council and TIER on the scheme, is a great opportunity for us as well as the wider city of York.

“Our sustainable transport plan is ever evolving and we will continue to support new and diverse transport options in the future.”