Lime, the global leader in micromobility, has launched a pilot of Lime Vision: their in-house designed AI computer vision technology that detects and collects data when riders are on the footpath to better understand the user experience.
Lime Vision camera units have been fitted on selected e-scooters and deployed across Christchurch. As Lime riders take trips with these vehicles, the technology determines and records the type of surface (roadway, footpath or shared path) the rider is on, providing insights, location and data allowing Lime to advise its riders on how to ride safely.
Christchurch Operations Manager Liam Carroll said that this is part of Lime's ongoing commitment to safety.
"Our local Christchurch team has deployed our Lime Vision module and is excited to review the data," Liam said
Lime launched a Lime Vision pilot program in Auckland in late 2023 and Melbourne, Australia early 2024 with great success. Data showed that riders only spent 13 seconds on the footpath after their ride began and 11 seconds on the footpath when parking their scooters. It also showed that as riders gain more experience, their time on the footpath is reduced considerably.
Director of Government Relations William Peters said following the successful pilot in Melbourne, we now know that over 75% of people spend less than 30 seconds per trip on footpaths.
"The data allowed us to work with local councils to inform our safety messaging and we look forward to having access to this in Christchurch," William said.