Brussels – Micromobility provider Bolt has announced a significant expansion of its shared e-bike fleet in the Belgian capital, deploying over 1,000 new e-bikes on Friday.
With this addition, the total number of Bolt e-bikes available in Brussels has risen to 2,500, further strengthening the city’s micromobility ecosystem.
While shared e-scooters remain the most popular choice among users, recent data suggests a growing preference for e-bikes.
The average trip distance has increased by 25% over the past year, now reaching 3 km. This shift has driven a 27% surge in e-bike usage over the same period. “User trends show that e-bikes have become an essential mode of transport for daily trips.
Expanding our fleet fully aligns with the objectives of the Good Move Plan, which aims to promote alternatives to private cars and improve urban mobility,” said Alexis Hiernaux, Head of Micromobility Operations at Bolt Benelux.
Increased Demand During Peak Hours
Bolt’s data indicates that e-bikes are particularly popular during peak commuting hours. Significant usage spikes have been observed between 08:00 and 10:00 in the morning and between 16:00 and 18:00 in the evening, highlighting their growing role in daily transportation routines.
In addition to their convenience, Bolt’s e-bikes offer practical advantages for users, including built-in baskets for carrying bags and personal belongings.
This feature, combined with their ease of use, has made them an attractive option for city dwellers seeking an efficient and sustainable alternative to traditional transport.
Reducing Congestion in the Capital
The expansion of Bolt’s e-bike fleet aligns with broader efforts to reduce congestion and promote sustainable urban mobility in Brussels.
“By strengthening our shared e-bike offering and optimising their integration into public spaces in collaboration with the City of Brussels, we are actively contributing to a more accessible and less congested city,” Hiernaux added.
To enhance the riding experience, Bolt is also introducing a new, lighter e-bike model in Brussels. These updated bikes are designed for improved comfort and manoeuvrability, featuring inflatable tires that provide better grip compared to the previous solid-tire models.
Policy Changes Enable Expansion
The recent increase in Bolt’s e-bike fleet was made possible by adjustments to Brussels’ micromobility regulations.
Initially, Bolt faced fleet deployment limitations due to restrictions aimed at preventing overcrowding in designated drop zones. These zones were set up to accommodate 7,500 shared bikes from various operators.
However, the departure of several micromobility companies has freed up space, allowing Bolt to scale up its fleet while maintaining balance within the city’s transportation ecosystem.
This move aligns with the City of Brussels’ objectives, which focus on improving urban mobility and offering more sustainable transport options.
As the demand for micromobility solutions continues to rise, Bolt’s latest expansion underscores the growing role of e-bikes in shaping the future of urban transport in Brussels.
With further innovations and policy support, shared e-bikes are poised to become an even more integral part of the city’s daily commute.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
