• Darwin-first seated e-scooters to form part of upgraded fleet
• Beam brings increased focus on rider enforcement, with Rider Check technology to be integrated
• Beam to host upcoming ‘Open Day’ to promote local job opportunities in the lead-up to launch

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[1 November 2023] Beam, the country’s largest shared micromobility company, has won a two-year operational license to operate in Darwin, following a competitive tender process for a new permit led by the City of Darwin. 

750 safety-first purple e-scooters, e-bikes and seated e-scooters will roll out across the city on 1 December, bringing Beam’s blend of technology innovation, rider education and enforcement, and a community-centric approach to the city. 

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“We are pleased to be bringing big changes to Darwin’s shared micromobility program over the next two years, in partnership with the City of Darwin,”

‍says Beam’s General Manager (ANZ) Tom Cooper. 

“Over ten million shared e-scooter and e-bike trips have been taken on Beams all across the country, with data from our other Australian operations showing a shift from cars to a preference for e-scooters for shorter trips under 5 km. 

“Adoption of shared e-scooters in Darwin is way past the point of being used only by ‘early adopters’, and is now a mainstream transport choice for significant numbers of the population who have access to them.

“We see Darwin as an optimal city for us to be introducing new technology and new vehicle types, with an increased focus on accelerating modal shift away from cars in a safe and affordable way.  

“As we prepare to commence our operations in Darwin, we are committed to forming partnerships with local community members and organisations, and engaging in discussions around the safe operation of e-scooters to ensure the safety of riders, pedestrians and other road users.” 

“City of Darwin’s assessment panel were impressed with Beam’s offerings, particularly around safety, diversity of micromobility options, innovation, operational capability and sustainability,”

‍says City of Darwin’s Chief Executive Officer Simone Saunders. 

“Beam has an impressive and extensive operational experience, an excellent safety record, and commitment to safety and innovation.

“They complement and align with many of our values and strategies, including creating a clean, clean and green city, and we look forward to welcoming them to the city from 1 December.”

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75 local jobs will be created to manage Beam’s operations locally, with Beam to host an Open Day in the lead up to launch on 1 December, for locals to find out more. 

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Darwin-first micromobility technology to be introduced

Beam’s AI-powered Pedestrian Shield technology will be integrated into its e-scooter feet, incorporating road surface detection for better rider and pedestrian safety.

With Pedestrian Shield, Beam’s e-scooters will accurately and reliably identify whether the vehicle is traveling on footpaths, streets or bike lanes,  enabling Beam to employ riding restrictions and educate riders on safe riding in and around the cities, by providing specific in-trip and post-trip feedback. 

Beam will also integrate its drink riding deterrence technology, Rider Check, into its Darwin fleet, bringing an additional technology-backed layer of rider education and enforcement to Darwin for the first time.  

In addition, Beam will roll out 100 seated e-scooters for the first time in Darwin, offering a practical choice to those who find standing e-scooters and pedal assist e-bikes challenging for use, or those travelling longer distances. 

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“We know Darwin has embraced shared micromobility, which has become a preferred means of transportation for many,”

says Mr Cooper.

“However, they have not been accessible to all members of the local community, which is a gap we are looking to address with the launch of seated e-scooters across the city.

“Our data shows that riders ride longer distances with a more comfortable seated position, encouraging increased modal shift away from cars.”

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