RACV supports trial of e-scooter hire scheme

RACV today announced its support for the Victorian Government’s trial of an e-scooter hire scheme, which will see e-scooters available for hire by the public in two Melbourne metropolitan councils and one regional council.  

The announcement of the trial comes off the back of RACV’s submission to the National Transport Commission almost 18 months ago, where RACV called for the implementation of a national framework for personal mobility devices such as e-scooters.

The framework would provide a guide for law makers in deciding rules around use of e-scooters, such as speed limits and where they can be used.

RACV Senior Manager Transport, Planning and Infrastructure, Peter Kartsidimas, said the trial of an e-scooter hire scheme was an important first step in making e-scooters more readily available for the public and understanding what rules would work or not.

“RACV is very pleased the Victorian government has announced this trial today.  We know from a previous survey we conducted at the end of 2019 that almost 80 per cent of Victorians would consider using an e-scooter and almost 60 per cent would use one instead of a car,” Mr Kartsidimas said.

“In 2020, we saw many Victorians consider alternative mobility options as a way to explore and connect with their local communities.  Now many people are looking to integrate these mobility options in their day to day lives moving forward.”

Mr Kartsidimas said the Victorian Government should use the e-scooter trial to really consider what is going to encourage the take-up of e-scooters and how Victorians can be kept safe if they choose to ride an e-scooter.

“Using an e-scooter to get around has many benefits – they are often a cheaper and more reliable form of transport that is better for the environment,” Mr Kartsidimas said.

“Victorians have told us they want to use e-scooters, but they want to feel safe to do so.  The Victorian Government must continue to build communities where all Victorians have the option of walking or riding to work, the shops or other local destinations.”