Neuron Mobility e-scooters pump $86.86m into Darwin economy

The Territory’s favourite orange e-scooters pumped about $86.86m into the Darwin economy in 12 months. Find out how.

Millions of trips on the Top End’s beloved orange e-scooters has boosted Darwin’s economy by about $86.86m in just 12 months.

An Australian Economic Advocacy Solutions economist report to be released on Thursday revealed 80.3 per cent of Neuron Mobility e-scooter trips result in about $85.42 being spent at local businesses.

Darwin Trailer Boat Club general manager Alex Ehrlich said the constant flow of e-scooters outside the venue made him “very happy”.

Darwin Trailer Boat Club general manager Alex Ehrlich said the Neuron e-scooters were "a hoot". Picture: Sierra Haigh

“These scooters and bikes are a bit like winning the trifecta,” he said.

“Whenever I come here and I see a scooter here, I know someone’s in at the club, they’re not taking a carparking space and they’re not powered by petrol.”

Mr Ehrlich said the e-scooters meant tourists could easily explore Darwin and visit more businesses “which can only be good for the economy”.

“I love Neuron’s e-scooters, they are a hoot,” he said.

Neuron Mobility chief executive Zachary Wang introduced the orange e-scooters to Darwin in 2020. Picture: Che Chorley.

During a citywide e-scooter trial in 2022, the quirky transports pumped about $86.86m into Darwin’s economy.

Almost two thirds of riders spent their money at a hospitality venue, 39.2 per cent bought something from a retail outlet and 21.1 per cent went to the gym, movies or an event.

The Neuron e-scooters first appeared on Territory roads in 2020 and have since been kicked into gear for a spin about 2.8 million times.

The AEAS report also found the Darwin City Council likely saved about $427,000 and the NT government potentially saved $2.95m over 12 months in road and maintenance costs.

Economist Nick Behrens said the “all-in-one transport solution” made Darwin commutes more convenient, accessible and productive while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

“Through enabling affordable, rapid and easily accessible transport options for Darwin tourists, residents and business community members, AEAS has determined that Neuron services have contributed 83.2 cents in every $100 in Darwin economic activity,” he said.

“Furthermore, Neuron Mobility is estimated to have created and supported 512 Darwin based jobs over the 12 month period.”