Swedish firm set to take over Glasgow’s hire bikes

Swedish firm Voi is set to take over the management of Glasgow’s cycle hire scheme, replacing the city’s nextbikes.

Council officials are recommending a contract is awarded to VOI Technology UK for a minimum of 1,000 e-bikes.

The company would offer a fully electric fleet. Currently, Glasgow has just over 200 e-bikes and more than 1,000 non-electric bikes.

Voi was recently chosen to run a new bike hire scheme in Edinburgh, with an initial trial beginning on September 3. It operates across Europe, including in Barcelona, Berlin and Stockholm.

Glasgow’s current provider TIER, which manages the nextbikes, did bid for the new contract but has not been selected by officials. Councillors will decide whether to approve a deal with Voi on Thursday.

It would cover an initial three years with an option to extend for a further two 12 month periods. The anticipated spend over the full five years is £1million.

Users would download the Voi app which would enable them to locate bikes. They can then be unlocked by scanning a QR code.

A council report states: “As the largest city in Scotland, with a population in the region of 635,130, the council considers that there remains scope for the provision and development of the current MACH [mass automated cycle hire] scheme within Glasgow’s environs.

“The council recognises the significant role cycling plays in reducing emissions and congestion by offering a healthy and efficient alternative for short journeys.

“By promoting bike usage, the scheme not only supports environmental goals but also encourages a healthier lifestyle. Therefore, the council is eager to expand the current scheme and encourage further growth.”

Under the city’s cycle hire scheme, which first launched in June 2014, 1,030 bikes and 209 e-bikes are available at 113 stations. The council report states the current scheme has seen almost 2,689,500 rentals.

The new contract will cover the supply, operation and maintenance of the scheme. Three companies submitted bids after 12 had initially expressed an interest.

Officials have said a four-month mobilisation period is “considered appropriate” if a new provider is awarded the contract, allowing them time to buy 1,000 e-bikes.