Antwerp’s bike-sharing service, Velo, set a new record last year, surpassing 7 million rides for the first time, Mobility Councillor Koen Kennis announced on Tuesday. The popular transport system, which launched in 2011, continues to experience steady growth, reinforcing its role in the city’s mobility strategy.
Velo began with just 1,000 bicycles and has since expanded to nearly 5,000, supporting a growing user base. The number of rides has seen a consistent increase, rising from 6 million in 2022 to 6.5 million in 2023, before exceeding the 7-million milestone in 2024.
“Velo and Antwerp have been the perfect tandem for fifteen years now,” Councillor Kennis stated. “The system makes an important contribution to the ‘modal shift’ by encouraging sustainable and accessible transportation.”
Hotspots for bike rentals include the Central Station, Franklin Rooseveltplaats, and Berchem Station, where approximately 1.8 million bikes were borrowed in 2023. These key locations serve as vital connection points for commuters, integrating the bike-sharing network seamlessly with public transport.
With such a high volume of usage, maintaining the fleet is a significant undertaking. Mechanics performed over 22,000 repairs last year to keep bicycles in optimal condition. The repair team tracks each bike’s history using unique identification numbers, while users can report issues through the Velo app, ensuring swift maintenance responses.
According to Councillor Kennis, Antwerp’s bike-sharing network is a European leader in terms of its ratio of bikes, rides, and users relative to the city’s population.
“About 12% of Antwerp’s residents hold an annual Velo subscription,” he noted. “With one bike per 120 residents, Antwerp outperforms Paris more than twice over.”
The success of Velo reflects Antwerp’s commitment to sustainable urban mobility. By offering a convenient and eco-friendly transport alternative, the city continues to promote cycling as a key component of its long-term transportation plan. As usage continues to rise, officials are optimistic about further expanding and improving the system to meet growing demand.
With Antwerp leading the way in bike-sharing efficiency, Velo’s continued growth highlights the increasing role of cycling in reducing congestion, lowering emissions, and promoting healthier lifestyles in urban environments.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
