Beam to double e-scooters geofence area in Bunbury

The purple e-scooters buzzing around Bunbury will be buzzing even further afield, after Beam announced it will double its geofence size in the area because of the popularity of the vehicles.

Data collected from Beam’s e-scooters shows Bunbury riders travelled more than 118,000km around the port city since the purple scooters first arrived in Bunbury in December 2021.

The increased geofence zone will enable users to travel to and from East Bunbury, South Bunbury, Pelican Point and Bunbury train station.

Sixteen new parking spots will be created to support the expanded area.

Beam’s Bunbury lead Stuart O’Callaghan said he expected the micromobility option would be even more popular with the increased area, but safety would remain a key priority.

“As we continue to offer shared micromobility to more of Bunbury, our commitment is first and foremost to the safety of both the riding and non-riding community, and ensuring rider compliance with the State legislation.

“We have comprehensive in-app rider education, and incorporate safety features such as precision geofencing, vehicle tracking, triple brakes and bluetooth-locked helmets.”

Bunbury Mayor Jaysen Miguel sad the City had been working with Beam to address accessibility of e-scooters in the outer areas of Bunbury.

“The e-scooter service in Bunbury has certainly provided a buzz in the community, and it appears it has been a popular addition as a transport option,” Mr Miguel said.

“It is hoped the increase in area will allow a better user experience for riders to move around the City.”

Mr Miguel said the City would continue to monitor the service, and while most e-scooter users were following the road rules, any non-compliance could be reported.

“Most riders are following the road rules and user requirements of hiring the e-scooter,”

“The main issues are associated with helmets left lying around and how or where the e-scooter is parked after a ride.

“The City continues to work with Beam to add no-go zones, restrict speeds in areas and develop designated parking spots based on community and business feedback.”