E-Scooters Celebrating Third Anniversary On Isle Of Wight

Shared sustainable transport provider, Beryl and the Isle of Wight Council are celebrating the third anniversary of the island’s e-scooter pilot scheme.

Launched on 12 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.

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.

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."

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.

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.