Paris has voted in favor of banning e-scooter rentals in the city in a referendum that saw an 89% landslide vote. The move deals a significant blow to rental companies such as Lime, Tier, and Dott. It is anticipated that the French capital will become the second European city after Barcelona to prohibit the devices.
The city of Paris introduced strict rules in 2018 after a messy launch that reduced the number of rental companies to just three. Despite new regulations such as a speed limit of 10 km/h and fines for not using dedicated parking, accidents continued to occur, and residents complained about dangerous operations and abandoned devices on sidewalks.
The ban does not affect privately-owned scooters or e-bikes, and it is likely to be welcomed by those concerned about road safety. However, it goes against Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo’s initiatives to reduce pollution and dependence on cars as part of a pledge to be carbon neutral by 2050.
The ban is a result of a referendum in which under 8% of eligible voters participated. Parisians showed up in small numbers, with a majority of 50+ and parents with toddlers, according to reports. The referendum was called in response to a rising number of accidents involving e-scooters, including a fatality in 2021.
In conclusion, the ban on e-scooter rentals in Paris is a significant blow to rental companies and a triumph for road safety campaigners. However, it goes against the city’s initiatives to reduce pollution and promote e-mobility. The move highlights the need for better regulation and management of the shared mobility sector.