Lime, a provider of shared e-bikes and e-scooters, has introduced a new generation of electric bikes in Seattle, offering the option to use a throttle for power in addition to pedal-assist. This new model, one of the first of its kind, highlights Seattle’s status as a leading city for micromobility. The throttle, located near the right handlebar grip, allows riders to start from a full stop, conquer steep hills, and travel longer distances without exerting too much effort by pedaling. Lime’s decision to launch this new model in Seattle demonstrates the company’s commitment to investing in the city’s micromobility infrastructure.
Seattle’s Scooter and Bike Share program, managed by the Seattle Department of Transportation, allows Lime and other companies like Bird to operate e-bikes and e-scooters in the city. Lime’s success globally is attributed to cities such as Seattle, where residents and visitors took over 3.1 million rides on Lime vehicles in 2023, representing a 50% increase from the previous year. Lime has been operating in Seattle since July 2017, making it one of the company’s oldest continuous markets. Some of Lime’s most notable ridership spikes in Seattle occurred during major events such as Taylor Swift’s Lumen Field concert appearances and MLB All-Star weekend.
Lime’s entry into the Seattle micromobility market aligns with the city’s efforts to promote sustainable transportation options and reduce reliance on cars. By offering shared e-bikes and e-scooters, Lime provides residents and visitors with convenient, eco-friendly alternatives for short-distance trips. The addition of a throttle option on Lime’s new e-bikes enhances the riding experience, allowing users to tackle challenging terrain and cover longer distances with ease. Lime’s continued investment in Seattle underscores the city’s growing importance as a hub for innovative transportation solutions.
As a privately owned company based in San Francisco, Lime has expanded its operations globally, offering shared electric vehicles in 280 cities across nearly 30 countries. In 2020, Lime acquired the Jump bike-share business and secured a $170 million investment round led by major firms such as Uber, Alphabet, Bain Capital, and GV. By leveraging strategic partnerships and investments, Lime aims to further enhance its micromobility offerings and expand its reach to more cities worldwide. With a focus on sustainability and accessibility, Lime continues to play a significant role in shaping the future of urban transportation.
Seattle’s collaboration with Lime and other micromobility providers reflects the city’s commitment to promoting environmentally-friendly transportation solutions and reducing traffic congestion. By integrating shared e-bikes and e-scooters into its transportation system, Seattle aims to provide residents and visitors with convenient options for short-distance travel. Lime’s success in Seattle, highlighted by record-breaking ridership numbers and key milestones, underscores the positive impact of micromobility on urban mobility. With the introduction of innovative features such as throttles on e-bikes, Lime continues to lead the way in providing sustainable, accessible transportation options to communities around the world.
Overall, Lime’s expansion in Seattle and other cities demonstrates the growing demand for micromobility solutions that offer a convenient, cost-effective, and environmentally-friendly alternative to traditional modes of transportation. With its latest generation of electric bikes equipped with throttles, Lime is poised to further revolutionize the way people move around urban areas, making it easier and more enjoyable to navigate city streets. As Lime continues to invest in innovative technologies and expand its presence in key markets, the company is well-positioned to contribute to a more sustainable, efficient, and equitable transportation ecosystem.
