The City of Hobart is progressing a public tender for a new shared e‑bike operator, with services expected to commence from mid‑August 2026.
Current provider Beam has advised it will not extend its existing permit, which expires on 30 June 2026, and will also not submit a tender for the new e‑bike‑only contract, following the Hobart City Council decision in April this year.
City of Hobart CEO Michael Stretton thanked Beam for its contribution to the city's transport network.
The City will consider an operator for the new e‑bike‑only permit in late June, with a short transition period expected before services resume.
Since the program began, users have travelled close to 1.3 million kilometres, with more than 99 per cent of trips completed safely and without incident. Around 45 per cent of trips replaced a car journey, and 66 per cent resulted in a purchase at a local business.
Quotes to be attributed to City of Hobart CEO Michael Stretton:
"Beam has played an important role in helping Hobart trial shared personal mobility devices, and we thank them for their service to our community.
"Since launching in December 2021, more than 800,000 trips have been taken, showing strong demand for convenient, low‑emission travel options across Hobart.
"While we had hoped Beam would continue operating during the transition, we respect their decision and are focused on securing a new provider as quickly as possible.
"Moving to an e‑bike‑only model reflects Council's direction and provides an opportunity to refine how shared mobility operates in Hobart.
"We're focused on securing a high‑quality service that continues to support local businesses, reduce car trips and provide a safe, accessible option for residents and visitors."
