Poitiers: Nearly 1,000 electric scooters and bikes available for rent

The Greater Poitiers area finally adopts a self-service rental system for bicycles and electric scooters through the operator Pony.

The community took its time, but its soft mobility offer is becoming one of the most serious among mid-sized French cities. Grand Poitiers unveiled its self-service rental plan a few days ago.

Launching on October 18, up to 920 vehicles

The Poitiers metropolitan area chose the French company Pony to provide its floating vehicle service. It is deploying between 450 and 920 two-wheeled electric vehicles, divided between bicycles and scooters. An impressive number for this city of less than 100,000 residents, but whose fleet is smaller than in Cherbourg.

The bikes available are the “Double Pony,” two-seaters capable of accommodating another adult at the back. However, the company does not include vehicle ownership options, which are available in Bourges, Lorient, or Angers. This program allows individuals to purchase and earn 50% of the trip cost.

Designated and strict parking spaces!

The service also manages parking. In collaboration with Grand Poitiers, Pony has set up 230 parking spots for bikes and scooters across 22 different locations. The operator’s app will also include bike racks, totaling “370 parking points” for users. Additional locations will be added, for example on the Poitiers University campus.

The GPS on the vehicles will monitor proper usage. Trips can only end at designated parking spaces, not elsewhere. No fines or photos needed at the end of a trip.

What is the price for self-service bikes and scooters in Poitiers?

The price is the same for everyone and for both types of two-wheeled vehicles. Pony’s electric scooters and bikes are priced at €0.25/min, available 24/7, and 7 days a week. The service is only accessible via a mobile app on Android or iOS.

Also read: Blois, up to 250 electric scooters in self-service