E-Scooters

Smart Move Northamptonshire e-scooter trial

Key Stats as of October 2023

1. Towns covered = 7 
2. Total number of rides = 4.8 million
3. Total distance travelled = 10.9 million km 
4. Total number of users = 109,000    
5. Key worker rides (Voi 4 Heroes) = 226,000      
6. Car journeys replaced = 2.4 million
7. Percentage of riders using e-scooters as part of their daily commute = 38% 
8. Carbon Dioxide (CO2e) Emissions saved = 784 tonnes
9. Number of safety events: In person = 12; Webinars = 27   
10. Number of online safety training sessions completed (ride like voila) = 16,000
11. Additional High Street spend through green enabled journeys = £7.57m

Background

The Northamptonshire E-Scooter trial was one of the first in England. Launched in Northampton in September 2020. The trial expanded into Kettering (December 2020), Corby (February 2021). Followed by Wellingborough, Rushden/Higham Ferrers (March 2021) and Burton Latimer (April 2021).

There was significant interest from suppliers keen to operate the trial in Northamptonshire. A competitive process saw Voi Technology (Voi) selected as the preferred supplier. Voi have delivered similar schemes across Europe and are now live in more than 100 cities. Voi operates trials in other areas including Cambridge, Liverpool, Oxford and Bristol.

Future plans 

The trial is helping to build our understanding of the role that e-scooters could play in the future.  This aligns closely with the Smart Move Northamptonshire initiative. For example:

• Replacing short journeys often taken by car.  
• Improving local connectivity in areas with limited public transport options.
• Moving towards a net zero emissions carbon transport system.  
• Managing demand for safer travel options.
• Providing affordable, attractive, green transport options.  

Sharing the road

Northamptonshire Police, North and West Northamptonshire Councils and Voi have launched a joint campaign to raise awareness of the rules of the road for e-scooters and e-bikes.

The key aim of the campaign is to ensure everyone using the roads knows what to do to remain alert at junctions and roundabouts.  Full details of this campaign can be found on the Northants Police website. 

Reporting issues

Report incidents of rule breaking or parking to Voi using their Report a Scooter form.

Alternatively email the team: [email protected] 

Please provide the time and location along with the 4-digit ID on the e-scooter where possible.

Voi investigates all reported incidents and acts against users where required.

Testimonials

Testimonials are available on Voi’s blog.

• December 2020 – Voi 4 Heroes discount
• March 2022 - Meet Councillor Graham Lawman Executive Member for Highways, Travel and Assets at North Northamptonshire Council.