Data has shown that 99 per cent of people believe e-scooters have had a positive impact on Busselton

E-scooter operator Neuron Mobility has released findings from new rider research showing that Busselton locals have embraced e-scooters in the first six months of the program. Launching in December 2022, 250 e-scooters were brought to the city for a 12-month trial. The latest survey shows that the scooters have covered over 250,000km of travel and many trips have encouraged locals to ditch their cars. According to the data, well over half (61 per cent) of all trips in Busselton replaced a car journey, which is significantly higher than the national average of 46 per cent. The distinctive orange e-scooters are estimated to have eliminated 25 tonnes of CO2 in the city so far. While having a big impact regarding sustainability, the findings have shown that e-scooters have impacted the city economically as well. The rider survey found that 69 per cent of rides resulted in a purchase at a business, with riders spending an average of $65 at local businesses per trip. According to the findings, each Neuron e-scooter contributes $70,000 to local economies per year. Trips along Busselton foreshore proved to be the most popular spot to ride with the station located at the Busselton Jetty car park the number one spot for riders to start and end their trip. Riders have been visiting the city’s cafes, restaurants and retail along Queen Street, and in Dunsborough the stations located along the town’s main street — Dunn Bay Road — are the most popular starting and ending locations. Overall, the findings from the last six months have shown that 99 per cent of people believe the e-scooters have made a positive impact on the city. “The people of Busselton have shown an overwhelming amount of positive feedback about our e-scooters,” said Regional Manager of Neuron Mobility, Lachlan Mclean. “Sustainability and safety are the core of Neuron’s operations and the latest data shows that e-scooters are playing a key role in replacing car journeys,” he said. “It’s encouraging to see so many riders enjoying the service, while reducing congestion and emissions in the city.” The Shire of Augusta-Margaret River last month cancelled the permit for a 12-month trial of a similar e-scooter hire scheme run by Miami-based operator Bird. The cancellation came after local police cited ongoing serious safety concerns and the lack of riders using helmets.