A new mode of transport has rolled into Langford – and it's electrifying.
Launched June 18 by Evolve, a B.C.-based company managed by BCAA, a fleet of 150 e-bikes and e-scooters are now available across the city at 30 locations, giving residents and visitors the option of a sustainable and flexible way to explore the city.
To celebrate the launch, BCAA and Evolve are donating $1 to the Goldstream Food Bank for every ride taken up to July 31.
“This initiative marks a significant step in our commitment to providing innovative transportation solutions that support our climate goals, reduce traffic congestion, make everyday commuting more accessible and more fun for residents,” said Mayor Scott Goodmanson at the launch of the program.
It is hoped the Evolve share program will empower residents to choose cleaner, more efficient modes of travel.
“Whether it's for commuting to work, heading to school or simply enjoying a beautiful area,” said Goodmanson.
For local businesses, the initiative will help keep folks in the city – and attract them – giving a welcome boost to the local economy.
“I have seen our business grow by some of our customers using these types of services,” said Doug Stuart, owner of Poncho’s Cafe on Goldstream Avenue. “And I'm really excited that (by) implementing this program, our business will only get busier.”
At the launch, residents and councillors were invited to take the new mode of transport for a spin.
For some, it was old news.
Coun. Kimberley Guiry had already used an e-bike the day previous to travel to the Capital Regional District headquarters in downtown Victoria and back – with plenty of battery left to spare, she told the crowd.
Riders aged 18 and over can sign up for the Evolve service via their smartphones, after which they will be able to locate, unlock and ride their vehicle of choice.
The e-bikes and e-scooters have a maximum speed of 25 km/hr.
It will cost 35 cents per minute or $12.99 per hour – whichever is cheaper – with a $1.25 unlocking fee per trip.
BCAA members will be able to save 10 per cent, and a monthly membership is also available for $9.99, dropping the per-minute rate to 10 cents.
For more information visit: https://langford.ca/evolve.
