{"id":375732,"date":"2025-08-26T19:38:10","date_gmt":"2025-08-26T19:38:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/375732\/"},"modified":"2025-08-26T19:38:10","modified_gmt":"2025-08-26T19:38:10","slug":"swedish-firm-set-to-take-over-glasgows-hire-bikes","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/375732\/","title":{"rendered":"Swedish firm set to take over Glasgow\u2019s hire bikes"},"content":{"rendered":"

Swedish firm Voi is set to take over the management of Glasgow\u2019s cycle hire scheme, replacing the city\u2019s nextbikes.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Council officials are recommending a contract is awarded to VOI Technology UK for a minimum of 1,000 e-bikes.<\/p>\n

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

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.<\/p>\n

Glasgow\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n

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 \u00a31million.<\/p>\n

Users would download the Voi app which would enable them to locate bikes. They can then be unlocked by scanning a QR code.<\/p>\n

A council report states: \u201cAs 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\u2019s environs.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe council recognises the significant role cycling plays in reducing emissions and congestion by offering a healthy and efficient alternative for short journeys.<\/p>\n

\u201cBy 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.\u201d<\/p>\n

Under the city\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n

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

Officials have said a four-month mobilisation period is \u201cconsidered appropriate\u201d if a new provider is awarded the contract, allowing them time to buy 1,000 e-bikes.<\/p>\n

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