Micromobility firm Lime is launching its next-generation LimeBike across the region from April
Lime is launching its e-bikes – until now a London-only phenomenon – across the West Midlands from April.
The latest model of LimeBikes, appearing on streets from April, has a repositioned battery and lower centre of gravity intended to improve accessibility for a broader range of riders, including older people and women, both historically underrepresented among cyclists, Lime said.
Bikes will initially be available in Birmingham, Coventry and Solihull from the April 1 launch date, with Wolverhampton, Sandwell, Dudley and Walsall to follow, West Midlands Combined Authority said.
The West Midlands will become Lime’s second-largest area of operation in the UK after London, serving a population of around three million.
The agreement replaces the existing cycle hire and e-scooter provision and, for the first time, will run at no cost to the public purse.
A boost for active travel
Tom Newham, Lime’s senior manager of public affairs for the UK, said the West Midlands was well-suited to shared micromobility given its network of town and city centres and public transport links.
Mayor of the West Midlands, Richard Parker, said the partnership would give residents “a world-class service” and help improve air quality and cut congestion.
