Island E-Scooter Trial Extended As Council Backs New Contract

The Isle of Wight’s e-scooter scheme is set to continue until at least 2028 after the Council approved an extension to both the trial and its operator contract.

A decision signed off by the Service Director for Highways and Community Protection confirms the Island will remain part of the Government-backed rental e-scooter trials, which have now been extended for a fifth time.

The scheme, first introduced on the Isle of Wight in November 2020, has grown steadily in popularity, with more than 150,000 rides recorded by April last year.

E-bikes were later added in 2022, with operator Voi taking over the running of both services in 2024.

Under the new decision, the Council will look to extend its current contract with Voi beyond June 2026, ensuring the continued rollout of scooters and bikes across the Island.

Transport bosses say the trial is playing a key role in shaping the future of travel, not just locally but nationally.

Data collected is being used by the Department for Transport to understand safety, public opinion, environmental impact and how e-scooters fit into everyday journeys.

Only rental e-scooters that are part of the official trial remain legal to use on public roads, with privately owned scooters still banned.

The Council says the scheme supports its wider transport goals — including reducing reliance on cars, cutting emissions and improving access to affordable travel, particularly for lower-income households.

Further expansion is expected in the coming months, with additional vehicles planned for both spring and summer as demand continues to rise.

Despite Government funding for the wider Solent transport programme coming to an end, the Isle of Wight scheme remains fully funded for now, with future investment to be reviewed later this year.

Officials say continuing the trial is vital, giving the Island a chance to showcase how micromobility can work in a rural setting while helping to shape future legislation.