Beam will introduce 100 e-scooters to Lake Macquarie in New South Wales on December 5, the Lake Macquarie City Council the first NSW council to start e-scooter trials.
Saturn 5 e-scooters will be deployed featuring high precision geofencing and increased GPS accuracy, ensuring riders remain inside the approved e-scooter operational zones, and swift action as the rider moves between zones with differing restrictions.
The shared e-scooters will be accessible via the Beam app and feature affordable pay-as-you-go rates, ‘virtual docking’ (incentivised fixed parking), and an in-app and in person safety school for rider and community education.
Beam’s three-strikes policy will apply, ensuring those not adhering to riding rules are suspended from the platform.
“We are thrilled to be bringing a new mode of transport to residents and visitors of Lake Macquarie, particularly ahead of the busy summer season,” says Beam ANZ general manager Tom Cooper.
“We know e-scooters are new to the community, and we are committed to working closely with the local community to ensure riders know their responsibilities when on an e-scooter, and that they contribute positively to the city’s local economy.
“The e-scooters will be trialled initially within limited areas of the city, with use limited to shared paths to allow riders and community members to get used to the new mode of transport.”
Cooper says Beam looks forward to working alongside Transport for New South Wales, Lake Macquarie City Council, their economic development arm Dantia, and local community members during this trial.
“We are confident that our experience across other Australian markets will ensure this trial is a success.”
Beam’s Saturn 5 e-scooter fleet includes on-board mapping for quicker response times, tip-resistant dual kickstands, front suspension, triple brakes, a Bluetooth-locked helmet, and swappable batteries
Its Beam’s Booster program will also apply, using a blend of GPS-technology, in-app notifications and partner business incentives to stimulate economic activity at the local community level.
Beam says six out of every 10 trips on a Beam involve a purchase at a local business.
The Beam Safety Academy for rider education and enforcement includes in-person training courses, in-app rider education, a low acceleration option for novice riders, and safety coaches patrolling the streets to enforce safe riding.
Beam already operates its purple e-bikes in Lake Macquarie.
Its Asia Pacific operations include Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Thailand, Turkey, Japan, Indonesia and Malaysia.
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