Tier takes over Essex’s shared e-scooter scheme following Spin acquisition

Micromobility operator Tier has started managing the operations of the shared e-scooter scheme in Essex, in partnership with Essex County Council, as part of the nationwide trials run by the DfT.

This follows Tier’s recent acquisition of Spin, the Ford-owned company that has run the service since the beginning of last year.

Tier will be rolling out its latest e-scooter model, which will continue to provide people in Essex with a convenient and green alternative transport option during the remainder of the trial to help cut congestion and pollution in the county, but with upgraded features for added safety.

Tier will be replacing Spin and initially launching a 350-strong fleet in Chelmsford, followed by Basildon and Colchester at a later date in June. Riders in Chelmsford will be able to start using Tier’s new e-scooters from the week commencing 6th June.

The operator will be introducing its latest e-scooters, which include a large front wheel, indicators, a wider footplate, dual suspension, a double kick-stand and dual drum brakes for stable riding on uneven surfaces and conditions.

Georgia Yexley, general manager for UK and Ireland, said: “We’re really excited to build on Spin’s excellent reputation established in the area, working in collaboration with their team and the council to deliver a safe, green transport option for residents and visitors. The e-scooter scheme has already had a hugely positive impact in Essex, with almost a million e-scooter rides being taken since its launch.

“Working together, we hope the scheme can continue to reduce air pollution and congestion in the county in line with the Essex County Council’s Safer, Greener, Healthier campaign.”

Tier’s e-scooters also include swappable battery technology, and the new model also features brighter lights and upgraded indicators offering 360° visibility. Other features include three independent brakes and enhanced handlebar grips.

Pricing will change to reflect Tier’s model, but special subsidised programmes, such as those for NHS workers and those on low incomes, will remain. Riders will have to download the Tier app and register to access the vehicles. The current long-term renting options in Braintree and Brentwood will cease until further notice.

Peter Blackman, chair of the Essex-wide E-Scooter Trial Stakeholder Group, said: “Spin has delivered a good start to the Essex e-scooter trial. The establishment of the Stakeholder Group has been successful and dialogue with Spin and Essex County Council has already delivered important improvements. The transfer to Tier seems to be a further step in the right direction.

“Tier has already established positive engagement with our group ahead of the launch of its new fleet. We had a thorough discussion earlier this month with regard to how Tier operates, the enhanced safety features on their new vehicle and some of the additional safety partnerships and projects they can bring to Essex.

“We look forward to working with them and will continue to provide input to the trial from the views of community and vulnerable people’s organisations across the county.”

Tier, which operates across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland through its own and Nextbike brands, has been a climate-neutral company since January 2020. Its CEO and co-founder Lawrence Leuschner has donated his entire stake in the business to sustainability causes from which he will not financially benefit.

Tier’s acquisition of Spin gives Tier a global footprint of more than 520 cities and communities in 29 countries. Ford Motor Company remains involved as a strategic investor in Tier.

Councillor Lee Scott, Essex County Council cabinet member for highways maintenance and sustainable transport, said: “Essex County Council has an oversight role for the e-scooter trial which will feed into our evaluation once the trial period is over in November.

“We’re pleased that the trial has already demonstrated a real modal shift helping make Essex safer, greener and healthier and look forward to Tier continuing this work over the next six months.”