As Australia and New Zealand’s largest shared micromobility operator, we’re committed to constantly innovating and bringing the latest technology and hardware to our operations.
Building on the success of our standing e-scooters, Beam’s Saturn 5S now offers cities a seated option to cater to a broader audience, providing increased accessibility for riders across the region.
Currently, shared standing e-scooters and pedal assist e-bikes are the most common shared vehicle types in cities with shared micromobility programs. However, cities trialing novel vehicle types are seeing potential of an increased fleet range in supporting longer journeys for a greater number of commuters.
Seated e-scooters can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations, making it easier for seniors, those with movement restrictions or those uncomfortable standing on traditional e-scooters to access first and last-mile transportation. Beam’s seated e-scooters are now available in cities across Australia and New Zealand, including Brisbane, Geraldton, Canberra and Auckland.
Key Features:
A seat for comfort and accessibility: Featuring a comfortable seat, like a bicycle, but with the manoeuvrability and ease of a standing e-scooter, the Saturn 5S is a practical choice for those who find standing e-scooters and existing pedal-assist e-bikes challenging. Riders may also simply prefer a seated position for longer journeys.
All the safety features you’re used to: The Saturn 5S features bluetooth helmet locks for secure helmet storage, onboard geofencing for zone control, and triple brakes.
Elevating the Rider Experience:
A Growing Preference:
68% of Beam riders find seated e-scooters more comfortable, with the added comfort contributing to increased use and longer rides.
Increased Journey Lengths:
The average standing e-scooter trip is 2.5 kilometres long, and data shows that seated e-scooters result in riders riding further, and for longer. On average, journeys on seated e-scooters are 30% longer than those on traditional e-scooters, providing users with the flexibility to travel greater distances comfortably.
A More Accessible Option:
Addressing the needs of a diverse range of riders, data has shown the Saturn 5S opening e-scooters up to a broader riding population. Approximately 10% of Beam riders identify as having a disability, and seated e-scooters offer a viable option for them.
The New Bicycle:
Seated e-scooters have emerged as a strong alternative to e-bikes, with five times more trips taken on a seated e-scooter as opposed to an e-bike, where both options are available in a city.
Seated e-scooters are reshaping how people perceive and utilise micromobility, making it accessible, comfortable, and enjoyable for all. With the Saturn 5S marking the first novel fleet type after the introduction of e-scooters back in 2018, data shows the enthusiasm for new micromobility alternatives amongst Australians and New Zealanders, and the potential for further new modes of micromobility vehicles to be introduced to cities.
This article was originally published by Beam.
