The dublinbikes scheme will roll out its first batch of electric bikes by the end of March.
It’s part of the scheme’s plan to upgrade 50% of its fleet to hybrid electric bikes
Subscribers who want to use the electric option will have to pay an extra €60 a year and will receive their own personal battery.
The hybrid bikes can be used as a regular pedal bike when the batteries are not in use.
The batteries are not much larger than a smartphone and can be used to charge other equipment when not in use for cycling.
Dublinbikes said they offer up to 8km of charge when in use on the bikes.
The new hybrid dublinbikes are powered by batteries not much bigger than a smartphone. It's wonderful to see the technology opening up cycling for people who may find traditional bikes a challenge.
➡️https://t.co/LqsvQSSpHL pic.twitter.com/Vt7CIbP5U3— Eamon Ryan (@EamonRyan) February 25, 2021
The Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan said: “The expansion of dublinbikes to include a hybrid electric option will offer increased options for existing dublinbikes subscribers as well as an incentive to new users to join the scheme.
“The additional assistance from an e-bike can make it easier to cover longer distances, and it will offer a new option to people who may find it challenging to cycle on a traditional bike.
“The dublinbikes scheme complements existing transport solutions in the capital, bringing another sustainable and safe travel choice to the community.”
NTA Chief Executive Anne Graham said the bikes are a “very positive step.”
“The success of dublinbikes has resulted in a greater number of people using sustainable transport modes, for shorter journeys in particular,” she said.
“This new development will make the scheme more attractive and will lead to cycling becoming even more popular in the city.”
📢 Exciting News!! Commencing March 30th - the @NOWTVIreland dublinbikes scheme will be enhanced with the upgrade of 50% of the fleet of 1,600 to hybrid electric bikes. 🚲 Thanks @TFIupdates & @jcdecauxireland
More info: https://t.co/LGHcAeFwh0 #dublinbikes #hybridbikes #Dublin pic.twitter.com/yYD1vtbceT— Dublin City Council (@DubCityCouncil) February 25, 2021
Cyclists can upgrade their subscription and order their personal batteries from March 8th.
Users will recognise the hybrid bikes by their blue baskets with portable battery slots.
The NTA provided Dublin City Council with funding for the introduction of the e-bikes.
