Forest has launched an in-app sobriety feature to help prevent users from using its e-bikes after consuming alcohol, supporting road safety across London.
The new reaction-time test will be introduced gradually across the company’s fleet of around 20,000 e-bikes. Riders may be prompted to complete the check when they select the “Rent Now” option in the app.
The test begins with a brief countdown followed by a traffic-light interaction designed to measure how quickly a user responds.
If a rider passes the test, the booking continues as normal. Those who do not pass can attempt the test up to three times. After unsuccessful attempts, the app temporarily blocks the user from starting a ride, disabling the rental function for a set period. The company said each attempt is recorded internally for reporting and compliance purposes.
The feature uses geolocation to determine when and where the test appears. According to the operator, prompts will be activated at specific times and in locations considered higher risk, such as late-night settings in central parts of London.
The deployment strategy was informed by discussions with the Metropolitan Police Service and borough-level officers.
Alex Berwin, Head of Policy at Forest said:We’re pleased to introduce this new feature to further encourage responsible cycling habits among our users. As e-bikes continue to transform the way people move around London and become an everyday part of life in the Capital, it is important that they are used safely.
Cycling while intoxicated is also against the law in the UK, and while the vast majority of our riders adhere to this and use Forest responsibly, we recognise that even a small number of journeys made under the influence of alcohol can put pedestrians, other cyclists and the rider themselves at risk. By introducing a simple reaction-time check at key times and locations, we’re taking proactive steps to educate our users and prevent unsafe riding in its tracks.
The measure forms part of Forest’s wider programme aimed at encouraging safer riding and parking behaviour.
