Lyft is now more than just ridesharing services via cars, but with bicycles, too. Early in May, the Los Angeles Metropolitan Transportation Authority shared exciting opportunities for the platform to bring their experience providing bikeshare services in some of the biggest cities globally to Los Angeles, so that they can serve the communities there.
More and more bikers
The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority shared its recommendation to award the next Metro Bike Share contract to Lyft Urban Solutions. The Metro Bike Share contract is the User Agreement or T&Cs you enter into when using the Metro Bike Share program. Meanwhile, Lyft Urban Solutions is a global leader in shared micromobility systems, like bikesharing.
"Lyft Urban Solutions is honored that LACMTA has placed their confidence [in us, and we] are ready to get to work to accelerate bikeshare adoption across Los Angeles. Our proposal for the next chapter of Metro Bike Share includes proven hardware and software that powers bikeshare in 57 cities across 16 countries, and a community engagement and operations approach that empowers trusted local leaders like BikeHub, Arellano Associates, and BikeLA,” stated Michael Brous, the head of Lyft Urban Solutions. “With upcoming events like the World Cup and Olympics putting the city on a global stage, Lyft is ready to help Metro Bike Share welcome residents and visitors alike.”
Through hardware and software, empowering the largest and most successful global systems, Lyft is bringing unparalleled bikesharing experiences with Metro Bike Share. The ridesharing platform is envisioning tens of thousands of Los Angeles locals enjoying a traffic congestion-free commute, pedaling seamlessly on popular bicycles.
These are the core elements of the proposal. First, the award-winning e-bikes. Lyft’s best in-class electronic bikes are beyond making riders happy, but they also deliver measurable results. More and more people are willing to travel on e-bikes.
LA, NYC, and beyond
Second, innovative charging infrastructure. Their tested and proven in-dock charging stations are presently in operation in more than 20 cities across the world, including bikeshare leaders like Chicago, Montreal, Barcelona, and New York City.
There are charging stations that guarantee the consistency in the availability of e-bikes for riders while taking away the need to swap batteries frequently, which then significantly reduces vehicle miles traveled and unwanted operating expenditures.
Then, there’s the enhanced mobile app. With over 15 years of bikeshare expertise, Lyft is seeking to make a more intuitive Metro Bike Share application with seamless unlock options, too, such as QR code scanning and integrating with card systems.
“We’re excited to be a partner to Metro in helping to shape the future of mobility in Los Angeles, ensuring bikeshare plays a part in making it easier and more enjoyable for everyone to get around,” Lyft pointed out.
This is especially crucial since Los Angeles is gearing up to host major global events like the Olympics in 2028, the World Cup, and the Super Bowl. Lyft also added it is envisioning the Metro Bike Share program playing a key role in these events, offering a convenient and eco-friendly way for locals and foreigners alike to connect to venues, travel around, practice sustainability, and link with public transit.