Problems of Implementing the MEVO Metropolitan Bicycle System

Abstract

The MEVO Metropolitan Bicycle is an innovative public bicycle system in Europe. So far, no system has been introduced that is based entirely on 4th generation electrically assisted bicycles. The MEVO fleet will ultimately consist of 4080 bicycles, whose power supply is transferred from the batteries replaced by service technicians. Currently, 30% of the target fleet operates in the area of 14 cities and municipalities. The launch of the system revealed a number of problems that have not yet found practical and effective solutions. Thearticle presents the premises for creating the system in the Gdańsk–Gdynia–Sopot Metropolitan Area. Problems related to the launch and operation of MEVO in the first three weeks of operation, which affect the low availability of functional bikes have been discussed. Solutions have been proposed that, when properly implemented, can cause MEVO to become not only a model public bicycle system, but also an inspiration for other European cities to use such a solution.