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TIER Mobility to launch a safer and more accessible e-scooter model

Posted: 13 April 2022 | | No comments yet

In order to support safety and inclusivity, TIER Mobility’s newest e-scooter model – launching in London in April 2022 – features a range of upgrades that are more accessible for those with visual impairments.

e-scooter brain TIER enhances safety and sustainability of micro-mobility

Credit: TIER Mobility

Shared micro-mobility provider TIER Mobility has announced that it will be launching its next-generation e-scooters on London’s streets in April 2022, in a boost for safety and accessibility.

In order to support safety and inclusivity, especially for those affected by sight loss, the upgraded model has new features, including more TIER colouring, making the scooter easier to identify; a particularly bright light; and upgraded indicators offering 360° visibility, which will enhance rider visibility to other road users when signalling their direction of travel. Other features include three independent brakes, grippy handlebars and larger tyres.

The introduction of the new e-scooter model follows TIER’s partnership with University College London’s (UCL) world-leading research facility PEARL to develop a ‘universal sound’ for e-scooters to alert pedestrians and other roads users of their approach. Thus, the new model will allow TIER to test the sound solution on the street, as part of a collaborative project with all London operators, and will follow planned extensive engagement with disability experts, including visual impairment charity, the Thomas Pocklington Trust.

TIER, Lime and Dott partner with UCL to develop universal sound for e-scooters

With a service life of over five years, the newest e-scooter model will replace TIER’s current UK fleet – which will be used in other markets, in line with the company’s commitment to sustainability, as the company continues to grow its footprint across Europe.

Georgia Yexley, General Manager of TIER UK and Ireland, said: “At TIER, it is our mission to ensure that micro-mobility is as accessible as possible, to encourage people to switch to more sustainable transport while ensuring that it is inclusive for all. These upgrades cement TIER’s position as the safest and most inclusive operator in the industry. By upgrading our fleet in a sustainable way, we are building a long-term network of green transport options, allowing our users to play an active part in cutting carbon, improving air quality and building better cities.”

Jacqui Thomas, Engagement Manager at the Thomas Pocklington Trust, said: “As a Londoner navigating the streets with a visual impairment, I have been concerned about the visibility of e-scooters; however, TIER’s newest e-scooter model has greater visibility than before, with recognisable and contrasting colours, and their ID plates continuing to display black text against a bright yellow background at the front and rear. Contact information to report irresponsible behaviour or faults is clearly displayed in white on a black background, too.”