The scorching heat has finally brought some relief to the UK's crumbling public transport system: commuters are flocking to e-bikes and other micromobility options in droves. Data reveals that on days when London sizzled at 30C or above, demand for e-bikes shot up by a whopping 28%. And it's not just Lime Bikes that are benefiting – rival operator Voi has seen a staggering 553% year-on-year increase in e-bike and e-scooter use in the city.
As one Londoner told UKPulse, 'The heatwave has been a game-changer for me – I'm ditching the Tube for good. It's not just about avoiding the crowds; it's also about getting some fresh air and exercise.' Many of her fellow commuters seem to agree: over half of Londoners have switched to walking or cycling during extreme heat, with one in four actively avoiding public transport.
The trend is being echoed across the wider micromobility sector, with Forest reporting a 25% increase in rides compared to last week. With rail temperatures running over 20C higher than air temperatures during periods of heat, it's little wonder that commuters are seeking out more comfortable and environmentally friendly alternatives.