Why Neuron will hit pause on its e-scooter trial in Launceston

They’ve been all the rage across the state, but soon, one Tasmanian city will have less e-scooter options. Find out why Neuron is hitting pause on Launceston.

A Neuron e- scooter. Picture: Chris Kidd

Orange e-scooters will be removed from the streets of Launceston as company Neuron hits pause on its operations in the northern Tasmanian city.

Neuron Mobility head of Australia and New Zealand Richard Hannah said there were a number of factors which went into the decision, including an oversupply of e-scooters in the area.

“We have made the decision to pause our e-scooter operations in Launceston and will work with the council to achieve a smooth pause of the service by 16 December 2022,” Mr Hannah said.

“While we have enjoyed working closely with the council over the last 12 months, currently there is no contract in place.

Matt Sweetman on a Neuron e-scooter. Picture: Linda Higginson

“This, combined with a number of commercial and operational factors, including the current oversupply of e-scooters in the city, has led to our decision.”

Mr Hannah said its operations in Hobart would not be impacted.

“We will be communicating fully with our riders and will be reimbursing any outstanding passes or credits,” he said.

“We have enjoyed moving thousands of people around the city, completing over 200,000 kms and saving 20 tonnes of Co2.”

A spokesperson for e-scooter company, Beam, said there would be no change to its service.

“Beam is continuing our operations in Launceston, and we are looking forward to serving the community during a busy summer season,” they said.

“We are set to launch a new campaign and its full steam ahead in Tasmania for our operations, now in Launceston, Hobart and Burnie.”

The City of Launceston extended its e-scooter trial to March.

The trial was due to wrap up in December.