Lime Pilots New Micromobility Vehicles to Attract Women and Older Riders

Lime Pilots New Micromobility Vehicles to Attract Women and Older Riders
Image credit: Lime

Shared micromobility company Lime is launching two new vehicles designed to appeal to women and older individuals by featuring a lower step-through frame, smaller wheels, and enhancements beyond pedal-assist.

New Vehicle Launches

Lime is testing its next-generation e-bike, the LimeBike, and a new moped-like vehicle, the LimeGlider, in select cities. The LimeBike is being piloted in Atlanta and Zurich, while the LimeGlider will debut in Seattle and Zurich in August and September. Each city will have 200 to 300 of these vehicles to gauge rider interest and usage.

Vehicle Features

• LimeBike and LimeGlider: Both vehicles share a platform with unique tweaks. The LimeBike is an upgrade from the Gen4 bike introduced in 2022, and the LimeGlider combines the performance of a motorbike with a moped feel.
• Design Enhancements: Smaller 20-inch wheels, lower step-through height, and large front baskets designed to hold grocery bags with drainage holes.
• Additional Features: New phone holder, simplified battery gauge, and status lights for easy rental identification. The LimeBike will be green and white, while the LimeGlider will be all green.

LimeBike
Image credit: Lime

Strategic Moves

Lime has a history of experimenting with new vehicle designs, leveraging its in-house design and engineering capabilities. The company aims to attract a broader range of riders and secure more city contracts by being inclusive. Lime's profitability sets it apart from competitors like Tier, Bird, and Spin, with a reported $90 million in adjusted EBITDA for 2023, a 500% increase from the previous year.

Previous Efforts and Lessons Learned

In 2021, Lime tested electric mopeds in Washington, D.C., and New York City, but discontinued them a year later. Subsequent testing of the Citra motorbike in Long Beach also did not lead to fleet integration. Learning from these experiences, Lime's new strategy involves creating vehicles with parts common to existing scooters and bikes for easier repairs and addressing rider preferences for smaller, more accessible frames with additional storage.

Market Insights

Data shows around 70% of Lime's riders are men, with an average age of 33. Lime aims to broaden its user base by catering to groups that previously felt micromobility options were not for them. The company emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and listening to rider feedback to design vehicles that meet diverse needs.

By continuously innovating and adapting to market demands, Lime seeks to maintain its leading position in the micromobility industry and expand its rider base through these new vehicle offerings.