Why Not All E-Bike Schemes Are Equal

E-bikes have surged in popularity as cities and businesses embrace sustainable transportation. With a range of e-bike schemes available, from government initiatives to private rental services, not all e-bike schemes are created equal. Understanding the differences can help Planners, Operations Directors and Sustainability Managers make informed choices about which type of scheme is right for them.

In this blog article we explore what sets EEZYBIKE and EEZYPOD apart:

1. Business Model – can you make revenue from your e-bike scheme?

E-bike schemes generally fall into two categories: ownership and rental.

Ownership-based schemes offer subsidies, loans, or leasing options to help individuals purchase e-bikes. These schemes encourage long-term use and personal responsibility for maintenance.
Rental-based schemes, such as docked or dockless e-bike-sharing programs, provide flexibility for short-term use without the commitment of ownership. Given the relatively high cost of e-bikes, this can be an attractive model as the consumer does not need to actually purchase an e-bike. Furthermore the consumer can rest assured that maintenance is taken care of.

With a rental scheme, the consumer often pays for the use of the e-bike per hour. This means that the business offering the EEZYBIKE scheme can recoup some of the rental charges, for use of the e-bikes and pods. Both models have their advantages, but the best choice depends on the business’s and riders’ needs in equal measure.

2. Thought leadership and encouragement of more sustainable transport modes

A Deloitte study found that 69% of employed adults want companies to invest in sustainability efforts, including reducing carbon emissions and using renewable energy. Attracting talent and retaining it is a massive challenge - an e-bike rental scheme provides an attractive part of any employee benefit package. Such a move demonstrates a company’s commitment to sustainability and ESG. Offering an e-bike rental scheme, like EEZYBIKE also shows a company’s commitment to the wellness of its employees and visitors by enabling active travel. Offering sustainable transport helps minimise greenhouse gas emissions.

3. Accessibility & infrastructure – does your e-bike rental scheme work on all types of terrain?

A well-planned e-bike scheme must be supported by infrastructure. This includes bike lanes, secure parking, and charging stations. However, businesses do not solely operate on roads. Many have all types of terrain that need to be covered like off road and rugged terrain.

Cities with dedicated cycling infrastructure and e-bike-friendly policies see higher adoption rates.
Some rental schemes suffer from limited distribution, making e-bikes inaccessible in certain areas.
Maintenance is a key issue—poorly maintained rental bikes deter users and reduce safety.

Without the ability to cover all types of terrain, an e-bike rental service will not necessarily meet all the needs of the business or rider.

3. Ease of use and security

Does your e-bike scheme require riders to download an app? Or can they simply book online and access the e-bikes via a secure keypad?

Most businesses want to limit e-bike use to a certain type of rider, whether that be an employee, visitor or customer. With the EEZYBIKE scheme, riders book the bikes online and get a unique code that they simply enter into the keypad, to access the e-bikes within the e-bike pod.

Security is a key feature of the scheme and the unique code and keypad helps businesses know exactly who is using the bike. A protective pod also helps shield the bikes from the weather.

4. Company reputation

Littering of bikes is a common issue for e-bike and scooter schemes. Littering of bikes could have a detrimental effect on a company’s reputation, if that particular scheme is associated with a business. This is why it is important for e-bikes to be stored in a secure place like the EEZYPOD. The e-bikes need to be returned to the pod to get charged by the solar panel, so riders from the outset know that it is necessary to return the bikes back to the pod. In our experience, riders respect that the e-bikes need to be returned to be charged and therefore littering/dumping of bikes has not occurred.

4. How green is your e-bike scheme?

If the e-bikes in your e-bike scheme are being charged behind closed doors, you won’t know which type of electricity is being used to charge them. Is it a renewable source?

With an e-bike scheme like the EEZYBIKE, it is evident that a renewable source is being used, as the solar panel for charging the e-bikes is displayed on the outside of the pod.

Furthermore, old batteries are 100% recycled. EEZYBIKE works with UN-approved storage containers to store unwanted e-bike batteries securely and safely.

Fleet maintenance practices influence longevity; poorly maintained e-bikes often end up as waste sooner.

3. Pricing & Affordability

The cost of an e-bike scheme greatly influences its accessibility. Some schemes offer subsidies to reduce the upfront price of purchasing an e-bike, while others charge per-hour rates for rentals.

High costs for rentals can discourage frequent use, especially in lower-income areas.
Subscription models with unlimited rides may be more cost-effective for regular users.

The most effective e-bike programs balance affordability with financial sustainability.

4. User experience – reviews on Tripadvisor

Not all e-bike schemes get high ratings on Tripadvisor. Before embarking on an e-bike rental scheme, it is advisable to check the reviews on Tripadvisor. Do they consistently get 5 star ratings?

Some rental schemes only work if an app is downloaded, curtailing uptake.
GPS tracking, integrated locks and real-time availability updates improve the user experience.
Battery life and charging infrastructure impact usability—some schemes allow users to swap out batteries behind closed doors, while others, like the EEZYBIKE, require docking at specific stations.

An intuitive, hassle-free system is crucial for widespread adoption.

5. Sustainability & Environmental Impact

While e-bikes are an eco-friendly alternative to cars, some schemes are greener than others.

Battery disposal and recycling policies vary—some programs ensure responsible disposal, while others contribute to e-waste.
Energy sources matter—charging stations powered by renewable energy enhance sustainability.

A truly sustainable e-bike scheme considers the entire lifecycle of the vehicle.

Conclusion

Not all e-bike schemes are equal. Factors such as ownership vs. rental, thought leadership and reputation, accessibility, affordability, innovation, sustainability and user experience all play a role in determining the success and effectiveness of a e-bike scheme. Whether you’re an individual looking for a convenient ride, a business exploring sustainable commuting options, or a policymaker shaping urban mobility, understanding these differences can lead to better decisions and a more effective transition to e-bike-friendly areas.