From Thursday 18 June, 100 e-scooters will be available to hire across the two towns, providing an additional low-emission transport option that complements existing travel networks and helps people make everyday journeys.
Expanding Cornwall's Transport Choices
Cornwall riders have already made over 482,000 trips and travelled more than 1.2 million kilometres, choosing to ride Beryl e-bikes.Building on the success of the e-bikes, the e-scooters offer a new way to make short local journeys, connect with public transport and get around town.
By providing an alternative to private car use for shorter journeys, the service supports wider efforts to reduce congestion, improve air quality and encourage more sustainable travel behaviours.
Government-approved
The e-scooters operate as part of the UK Government’s Department for Transport trial framework, ensuring they are used legally and responsibly within a regulated environment.
Unlike privately owned e-scooters, which remain illegal for use on public roads and are not insurable, shared e-scooters within the trial include insurance as part of hire and operate under strict safety controls.
To hire an e-scooter, riders must:
- Be aged 18 or over.
- Hold a valid full, provisional or supported international driving licence.
- Helmet use is strongly encouraged.
Safety by design
Beryl e-scooters have been engineered specifically for UK urban environments, with safety and reliability at the core of their design.
Key features include:
- GPS-enabled geo-fencing to automatically manage speed limits and parking compliance.
- Slow-go and no-ride zones in busy or shared spaces.
- Autonomous electromagnetic braking systems designed for hills and wet conditions.
- Always-on front and rear lights for improved visibility.
- A large front wheel and suspension fork for greater stability on uneven roads.
- Tamper-resistant hardware and remote locking capability.
Riders are also supported through in-app education modules designed to promote responsible riding behaviour.
A growing network
The launch forms part of a wider programme of sustainable transport growth, demonstrating how shared mobility infrastructure can evolve over time. Existing docking infrastructure installed for the bike hire scheme has been designed to support future vehicle types, helping ensure long-term value for the city.
An initial fleet of 100 e-scooters will operate within the same area as the LNER Beryl Bikes scheme, with further expansion planned.
Residents can download the Beryl app to get started or find out more about riding safely and responsibly.