Key facts
- Lime e-bike journeys surged 28% on days over 30C during a recent heatwave.
- Over 50% of Londoners have switched to walking or cycling during extreme heat.
- One in four Londoners now avoids public transport during heatwaves.
- Rival operator Voi saw a 553% year-on-year increase in e-bike and e-scooter use.
- Journeys to popular summer destinations like The Oval and Victoria Park saw significant increases.
London's recent heatwave has significantly boosted the micromobility sector, with e-bike and e-scooter usage surging as residents seek alternatives to public transport. Lime reported a 28% increase in journeys on days exceeding 30C, while over half of Londoners have opted for cycling or walking during extreme heat.
This shift is becoming a mainstream transport solution, with one in four Londoners actively avoiding public transport during heatwaves and 26% finding cycling the most comfortable option. The trend is mirrored across the industry, with Voi observing a 553% year-on-year rise in usage and Forest noting a 25% increase in rides and record journeys.
Demand has been particularly strong around summer destinations, with journeys to The Oval increasing by 325% during a Test match, and trips to Victoria Park and London Fields Lido jumping by 480% and 349% respectively. This surge occurs as London's transport infrastructure faces strain from high temperatures, with rail services often subject to speed restrictions. Transport for London has activated its hot weather plans and is encouraging commuters to consider the necessity of their journeys.
The City of London's latest report indicates a 44% increase in cycling since 2023, with dockless hire bikes now comprising nearly a third of all cycle journeys. This growing reliance on micromobility presents an opportunity for companies like Lime, which is preparing for a New York stock market listing with a valuation near $1.7 billion, potentially signaling a future where e-bikes are integral to the city's transport network.