World’s first smart bike-share launches in Manchester and Salford

Mobike, the world’s first and largest smart bike-share, has launched with Mancunians and Salfordians now able to download the its app and get cycling.

Manchester’s first and only bike sharing scheme is entirely funded by Mobike, which is aiming for its bikes’ iconic silver and orange cycles to  become part of the city’s main transport network.

Following conversations conducted in the run up to the launch with some of the most prominent local businesses, Mobike has already established strategic partnerships with a range of organisations in different sectors, gathering support to help develop an attractive, environmentally friendly, affordable option for users around the cities.

From partnerships with real estate developers, (such as MediaCityUK and Exchange Quay), biking groups and think tanks (BikeRight!) Universities (Manchester Metropolitan University and Salford University), entertainment & leisure organisations (Great Northern Warehouse), to the Oxford Road Corridor initiative stakeholders -TfGM, Manchester Science Partnerships – Mobike has taken a truly community-oriented approach for its 100th City launch, and its European arrival.

Mobike – a client of of Manchester-based accountancy firm Beever and Struthers – says it  is committed to helping local communities develop into smart, car-lite, tech-optimised, cities as collaboratively as possible.

The company has indicated that the fruitful local business discussions and local partnerships confirmed in the run up to their launch in Manchester will be the standard for their development elsewhere in the UK and in Europe.

Andrew Taylor, travel plan manager at Manchester Metropolitan University, said: “At Manchester Metropolitan we are very excited about the launch of the Mobike scheme.

“We are working closely with Mobike to ensure the scheme can be effortlessly accessed by our staff and students.

“The scheme will potentially mean that cycling becomes a more convenient and affordable way to travel, and we are optimistic that Mobike will support the greater uptake of cycling in the city.”

Mark Schofield, Great Northern Warehouse centre director, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Mobike to introduce Manchester’s first cycle sharing scheme.

“We both share the same commitment towards innovation and sustainability, and we’re looking forward to working closely with Mobike as they expand their presence in the city.”