Spin resumes e-scooter operations in four U.S. cities

Spin, the micromobility unit of Ford, has announced that it is resuming e-scooter operations and deploying vehicles in four U.S. markets – Orlando, Nashville, Columbus and St. Louis.

Spin has also extended its Everyday Heroes programme through 31 May which offers free 30-minute e-scooter rides and helmets to essential healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Spin stated that it will continue monitoring essential work and shelter-in-place orders for all cities the programme operates in closely, deciding on potential further extensions towards the end of May.

The Everyday Heroes programme is available across 14 cities and is aimed at helping healthcare personnel – doctors, nurses, medical assistants, radiology and lab technicians, hospital and clinic administrators, and janitorial staff – get to work while maintaining social distancing. Since the program launched on 1 April, Spin has provided rides to more than a thousand healthcare workers. 

“Spin’s Everyday Heroes programme has made getting to work every day so much easier, especially with many other transportation services being limited or stopped completely,” shared Hayley K., Portland resident and healthcare clinic worker. “While other e-scooter companies have completely pulled service in my city, it is so amazing that Spin is going above and beyond to ensure that transportation is still accessible. Thank you!”

“I take a spin home from work – It’s been readily available and easy to use!” commented Abby H., nurse practitioner at Johns Hopkins Hospital. “It has decreased my risk of transmitting infection since I do not have to get in and out of my car, touch parking meters, etc.”

To ensure safety amongst its staff and riders, Spin has enhanced its safety protocols and increased the frequency of disinfecting its scooters. In partnership with Ford, Spin employees are being provided with personal protective equipment (PPE) sourced and manufactured by Ford such as single-use face masks, face shields and gloves for wear during every shift.

Every market is also supplied with disinfectant supplies, such as lysol and disinfectant wipes, to frequently disinfect the scooter handlebars and clean all high-traffic surfaces.