BeRider: ŠKODA AUTO DigiLab launches eScooter sharing in Prague
› BeRider commences pilot phase
› Electric scooters with a range of up to 70 km in city traffic
› ŠKODA AUTO DigiLab enables sustainable mobility in the Czech capital
Mladá Boleslav / Prague, 3 September 2019 – Simply Clever and electric: ŠKODA AUTO DigiLab
launches an eScooter sharing service, BeRider, in Prague. BeRider is now beginning its pilot
phase.
The BeRider scooters’ electric drive system is powered by two lithium-ion batteries. Fitted with LED
headlights as well as front and rear brake discs, BeRider enables users to make headway safely and
efficiently in urban traffic. Being lightweight, the electric scooter is handy and easy to manoeuvre. Its
large wheels and sturdy suspension guarantee a safe and comfortable ride. As is typical for an electric
vehicle, it boasts powerful acceleration and can reach a top speed of 66 km/h. With a range of up to
70 km, the zero-emission electric scooters are ideal for short to mid-range distances.
Andre Wehner, Chief Digital Officer at ŠKODA AUTO, said, “By launching BeRider and being a flexible
and eco-friendly company, we are adding to the range of options available for getting around large city
centres. Finding solutions for environmentally responsible micromobility for use in city traffic is one of
ŠKODA AUTO DigiLab’s strategic key tasks. Our think tank is thereby contributing to ŠKODA AUTO’s
transformation into a ‘Simply Clever company for the best mobility solutions’ as part of the ŠKODA
AUTO 2025 Strategy.”
Jarmila Plachá, Head of ŠKODA AUTO DigiLab, added, “Our BeRider service excellently
complements the range of inner-city mobility options available in Prague. Whether for travelling to work
or a sightseeing tour, BeRider electric scooters are practical, eco-friendly and user-friendly. At the
same time, we are incorporating our digital expertise: every BeRider scooter is equipped with sensors
that transfer data in real time. Due to this level of transparency, we are able to improve our customers’
experience when they use the scooters.”
The BeRider’s screen displays fundamental information such as the speed and range. A phone holder
on the handlebars makes it easier to navigate using a mobile. This and other electronic devices can be
charged on the go via the built-in USB port. Passengers can conveniently secure lightweight luggage
using the bag holders. The lockable top case contains two helmets for riding with a partner.
In coordination with the relevant district councils, a large portion of Prague has been specified as the
area of operation for BeRider. In this area, users can park the scooters in any legal parking space they
like. Parking location, battery level and other data are all transferred to the control room in real time.
Thus, incorrectly parked scooters or those with low batteries can be located and any irregularities can
be quickly remedied.
The Mayor of Prague, Zdeněk Hřib, welcomed the new service to the capital, stating, “We see sharing
services that provide zero-emission mobility and respect Prague’s local characteristics as a very
positive addition to our city. ŠKODA AUTO DigiLab is offering a well-thought-out solution that I hope
gets off to a successful start.”
In order to use the BeRider electric scooters, users must install the BeRider app (available for iOS and
Android) onto their smartphones and sign up to the service. Following successful registration, they can
then see available eScooters in the app and reserve as well as lock or unlock them without keys. Once
their journey is finished, they simply place the associated helmets back in the top case. Their session
ends after a brief confirmation via the app. Payment is then made via credit card and is charged based
on how long the scooter has been used for (CZK 5.00 per minute). A category B driving licence is
required to ride the electric scooters. General information and instructions can be found on the official
BeRider website www.be-rider.com.
