Rotterdam's streets are abuzz with a diverse fleet of shared electric vehicles, offering residents and visitors alike sustainable transportation alternatives. From nimble e-scooters to family-friendly cargo bikes, the city's shared mobility options continue to expand, providing eco-conscious alternatives to traditional car travel.
Electric scooters
Rotterdam's electric scooter scene is primarily served by two providers: Check and Felyx. These companies offer emission-free vehicles that have become a common sight throughout the city. Both offer scooters (mopeds) with two speed options: up to 25 km/h (blue license plates) or 45 km/h (yellow license plates). A blue licence plate means you're allowed on the bike path, whereas a yellow licence plate means you need to drive on the road together with cars. Helmets are mandatory for all riders, regardless of the scooter’s speed.
Both services operate via apps, allowing you to rent a scooter, unlock it, and pay per minute of usage. The scooters are widely available across the city, and the coverage areas of Check and Felyx are fairly similar, focusing on Rotterdam and its surroundings. They both contribute to reducing traffic and pollution, offering a convenient, eco-friendly way to get around the city.
Electric bicycles
For those preferring pedal power, Rotterdam offers two main bicycle-sharing options: Lime and Donkey Republic.
Lime operates a fleet of shared electric bicycles in Rotterdam. These provide an assisted cycling experience, making longer journeys more manageable.
Donkey Republic offers both regular and electric bicycles, identifiable by their bright orange colour. Their pricing structure includes hourly rates and various membership options, with day deals available for longer rentals.
Both providers operate through mobile apps, allowing users to locate and unlock bicycles easily throughout the city.
Electric cargo bikes
For those needing to transport goods or children, Rotterdam offers two cargo bike options: BAQME and Cargoroo.
BAQME provides electric cargo bikes capable of carrying significant loads. These e-box bikes are suitable for transporting children, pets, or groceries, offering a practical alternative to car journeys for families and businesses alike.
Cargoroo also offers electric cargo bikes, focusing on family-friendly options. Their vehicles are designed to safely transport children, making them an attractive choice for families looking to reduce their car usage for short trips.
Both BAQME and Cargoroo's cargo bikes are equipped with child seats and safety features, making them suitable for family transport as well as general cargo.
City regulations
To manage the growth of shared mobility services, Rotterdam has implemented a permit system. The city allows for a specific number of shared vehicles, including mopeds and light mopeds. Providers must comply with specific guidelines to operate in the city, ensuring safety and minimising nuisance.
Future outlook
The landscape of shared electric vehicles in Rotterdam continues to evolve. While some providers may leave the market, new ones often emerge to take their place. The city remains committed to supporting shared mobility as part of its strategy to maintain accessibility and environmental friendliness.
As Rotterdam continues to innovate in urban mobility, these shared electric vehicles are likely to play an increasingly important role in the city's transportation ecosystem. Whether for commuting, leisure, or running errands, these options provide flexible and sustainable alternatives to traditional transport methods.
It is worth noting that the shared mobility landscape can change rapidly. Users are advised to check the latest information directly from service providers or the city of Rotterdam for the most up-to-date details on availability, pricing, and regulations.
