VeloMetro Unveils World’s first Electric-assisted Velomobile-sharing service at UBC
Combining the traditional comforts of a car with the freedom and sustainable urban mobility of an electric bike, Veemo® velomobile propels sustainable transportation to a new level
VeloMetro Mobility Inc., a Canadian-based pioneer in sustainable transportation, recently launched its initial fleet of five velomobiles for public use at the University of British Columbia. Inspired to alleviate people’s frustration with traffic congestion and overcrowded transit systems, increasing costs to operate a car and concerns about carbon emissions, VeloMetro’s team designed the Veemo® sharing network of electric-assisted three-wheeled vehicles that resemble a cross between two popular modes of transportation.
“Veemo® hits the sweet spot between bikesharing and carsharing with its compact and environmentally friendly design,” says Kody Baker, CEO of VeloMetro. “We saw an opportunity to create a fun and affordable active transportation alternative that fits people’s urban needs. The launch at UBC is just the beginning. We have big plans to expand our fleet and offer the velomobile-sharing service across Metro Vancouver, our province, and eventually throughout the Pacific Northwest and the world.”
Outfitted with familiar bicycle handlebars, pedals and hand brakes, Veemo® velomobiles are intuitive and easy to use. A full enclosure, including a door, power windows, comfortable seat, heated grips, navigation unit, and a cup holder provide many of the comforts of a car. Sustainability is at the forefront of the design, notably in the patented electric pedal system and rooftop solar panel that powers the electric battery.
Veemo is enclosed by a light-weight composite body which complements the other safety features of the design. Further car-like elements include automatic smart control locks, daytime and nighttime lighting, and indicators. Regenerative braking and a rooftop solar panel extend the vehicle range by up to 20 km per day.
VeloMetro recently completed its testing of the velomobiles at the University of British Columbia with the intention to track how the vehicles help students move around campus quickly and in style. With almost 400 test riders logging over 2,700 km and 630 hours in trips, the successful test prompted the launch for public use.
“I really enjoyed the convenience and simplicity of it,” said Kenneth, a student at UBC and an early adopter of the unique transportation method. “There is almost no learning curve and everything was extremely easy to use. I love the service and only wish I had found out about it earlier.”
Users find, reserve and enable their Veemo® velomobile rides through a smartphone app—no keys required. Since it is legally classified as an electric bicycle, users do not need a driver’s license and are able to sign up online and ride within minutes without having to wait for motor vehicle driver record checks. Similar to existing car-share and bike-share models, Veemo® operates on a pay-per-minute system with other billing options to come. Membership is currently free, and for the first two weeks of launch, Veemo is offering a promotional rate of just 10¢ per minute.
Timeline of VeloMetro’s Veemo®:
- Fall 2016: VeloMetro secures investment to build Veemo pilot fleet for use at UBC
- Fall 2017: UBC pilot beta tested by almost 400 members
- February 2018: UBC pilot opened to the general public
- Late 2018: Target launch of commercial fleet in City of Vancouver
For more information on special offers and to follow Veemo®’s development, follow the velomobile on Facebook, Twitter or sign up for updates at rideveemo.com. If you are interested in partnering or investing in VeloMetro, contact info@velometro.com.
About VeloMetro Mobility Inc.
VeloMetro is a transportation company based in Vancouver, BC that is developing new electric-assist, internet connected velomobiles, and related sharing service, enabled by proprietary systems and software.
