Berlin-based e-scooter company TIER has unveiled what it called ‘the most advanced scooter yet to hit the streets’.
The e-scooter enables users to earn free rides by swapping out batteries at charging stations which TIER plans to set up across UK cities.
The charging stations are placed inside convenience stores, cafés, and other locations and are fully-automated. They will form part of a charging network for e-vehicles that TIER has already started building across Europe.
Tier said this approach creates a more sustainable operation as much of the congestion previously associated with operating e-scooter fleets is eliminated, while operating costs are also greatly reduced.
Lawrence Leuschner, CEO and co-founder of TIER, said: ‘By integrating this new kind of swappable battery technology, we are building a Europe-wide charging network that allows users to play an active part in adopting climate-neutral travel and building better cities. At the same time, by hosting the charging pods in local businesses, we are helping high streets to recover from lockdown.
‘This is a crucial step in TIER’s electric revolution to make mobility better. It is our plan that in time our charging network will not just service e-scooters, but other vehicles too.’
The new scooters will have a foldable helmet, and indicator lights on the steering bar and back. TIER said this adds to other safety features it has developed, including the largest front wheel in the industry, a wider foot plate, dual suspension, a double kick-stand and dual drum brakes for stable riding on uneven surfaces and conditions.
The launch comes as local authorities work to introduce e-scooter trials as a way of getting cities moving again during the pandemic. TIER said it is currently going through several UK tender processes including London.
The charging technology was pioneered by London-based hardware start-up Pushme, which TIER acquired earlier this year. Pushme has its manufacturing base in Aylesbury, Oxfordshire, where the charging stations are assembled.
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