E-moto trial aiming to cut congestion on busiest roads
COMMUTERS living along one of Solihull’s busiest roads are being challenged to trade in their usual drive to work for a two-wheeled alternative to help tackle congestion.
The trial is part of a moped “revolution” coming to the borough, designed to reduce the number of cars on the roads and cut harmful emissions along traffic-jammed routes.
Solihull Council has partnered with electric scooter firm Silence UK, which recently opened an eco-mobility headquarters in Shirley, to host a taster session for local residents to test-ride the new state-of-the-art mopeds.
An initial taster day, held at Blythe Valley Business Park, was open to eligible residents who live along Stratford Road and regularly commute or travel by car.
Participants can now opt into an extended, free-of-charge trial period – lasting between two and four weeks – which will challenge commuters to swap their regular car journeys and use an “e-moto” instead.
If the scheme proves successful, the council hopes to roll out similar initiatives across the borough.
Cllr Ken Hawkins, cabinet member for economy and infrastructure, said: “As more of us are going back into the office and returning to previous travel habits, we have a unique opportunity to look at how we might start to do things a bit differently, especially when it comes to how we get around.
“This project is all about giving people the opportunity to try something different and see if they can be encouraged to leave the car at home. E-motos have the potential to cut congestion and improve air quality.
“As a former police motorbike patrol officer, I’ve had a lot experience with traditional motorbikes, and I really enjoyed having my first go on an e-moped.
“It felt easy to ride and perfect for shorter journeys.”
One of those taking part in the taster day was Derek Hinks, who usually drives to work at Blythe Valley.
He said: “I had a great time and am definitely keen to ride some more.
“I’m not sure if I’d be ready to swap my car for an electric moped fulltime, but I can already see how it would make some journeys, including the commute, cheaper, quicker and more enjoyable.”