Electric Scooters in Bordeaux: Who Rides Them and How?

Voi operator has published a study on the use of its e-scooters in free-floating services, and the typical profile is quite young and male.

The electric scooter has been trendy for years and is becoming increasingly popular. As more models are available for purchase (with 900,000 sales in 2021), it is the rental in shared service that dominates media coverage. We often see young adults, unaware of traffic rules.

To break down stereotypes, Swedish operator Voi has published a study. It highlights statistics on e-scooter use in Bordeaux, providing valuable insights.

Are e-scooters a men’s thing?

First of all, is the e-scooter more of a male or female mobility option? Based on data collected since its launch in 2019, Voi confirms that men account for nearly three-quarters of trips (71%), compared to 26% for women. The remaining 3% are due to unavailability, as these users do not share their gender.

“These data reveal that there is still significant work to do with women to help them feel more confident using micromobility solutions,” explains Charlotte Serres, Managing Director of Voi France, “there is much to be done, which is why we continue to conduct street training, as well as awareness campaigns.”

92% of users are under 35

Young people dominate e-scooter users in Bordeaux. 73% are between 18 and 24 years old, and 19% are between 25 and 34. Other age groups are much less likely to rent these devices according to the study. “The baby boomer generation, that is, people around 50 years old, represent just 3%,” Voi specifies. Remember that only those over 18 can use the service.

Considering these statistics, it’s normal that students make up the majority of the free-floating system. They represent 58% of users, compared to 34% employees, 6% self-employed, and 2% unemployed.

When and why to use e-scooters?

The main reason for renting an e-scooter in Bordeaux is social—friends, restaurants, etc.—according to Voi. Only 10% use it for shopping or other errands. Here are the operator’s data:

• Social event: 40%
• Commute to work or university: 30%
• For fun: 14%
• Shopping: 10%

Less than 30% of people ride Voi devices occasionally or once. 40% use e-scooters once or several times a month. Finally, three out of ten users rent vehicles once or several times a week.

And why do these people prefer the scooter over bikes or public transportation? Nearly one-third find “easy” to use, ahead of 21% citing enjoyable aspects and 16% “availability.” Notably, four out of ten users combine their trip with public transportation, especially the tram (more than half).

Another piece of info: “in 12% of cases, scooters replace private cars,” adds Voi.

Also read: Blois: up to 250 electric scooters in free-floating service