Uber electric scooters, bikes hit streets of San Antonio
More dockless electric scooters and bikes are rolling along the streets and sidewalks of San Antonio.
JUMP, a firm acquired by ridehailing giant Uber last year, rolled out its e-bikes and scooters Tuesday. JUMP has a permit for up to 2,000 bikes and 2,000 scooters, but is “launching with a fleet that is less than the allotted amount,” a company spokesperson wrote in an email.
“Our team will monitor demand to help ensure JUMP’s fleet size works for the city of San Antonio,” the spokesperson said.
People can ride for free — up to 15 minutes per ride and up to five rides per day — through Feb. 4, according to a news release. Uber app users can tap “mode switch” on the home screen and select a scooter or bike to reserve.
The company is also giving out free helmets Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Uber’s Greenlight Hub at 121 Interpark Blvd. while supplies last.
JUMP is the fifth e-scooter company to launch in San Antonio. Bird first rolled into the city in June, followed by Lime, Razor and Blue Duck Scooters. Two other companies, Spin and Wind, have also applied for permits to operate locally, but they haven’t yet launched.
The city started a six-month pilot program in October with rules for both riders and companies. Officials said they plan to use data on local ridership, citations and accidents, as well as public testimony, to craft the final regulations.