E-scooter operator Tier has teamed up with the AA’s DriveTech to launch the first-ever e-scooter theory test.
The new test is intended to encourage responsible e-scooter use as well as help promote their take-up as a more sustainable means of travel.
E-scooters are expected to become a much-more common sight after regulations enabling trials of kicked in this summer; since then, a number of local authorities, such as York, have said they’re pressing ahead with trials and last week Transport for London gave the green light to such trials in London. And the Transport Select Committee has lent its backing to the plans.
Riders will also be incentivised to undertake the new e-scooter theory test from Tier and DriveTech, which will be accompanied by Tier’s Ride Safe School, a bespoke e-learning platform co-designed with AA’s DriveTech to educate people around e-scooter safety and responsible use.
On the platform, riders will be schooled on skills such as how to operate and park Tier’s e-scooters, while also being taught how to safely share designated routes with other vehicles, pedestrians and vulnerable road users. Following the training, users will be invited to complete the theory test.
Charlie Norman, managing director of DriveTech, said: “We increasingly recognise that road and cycle networks are to be shared with different types of road users. E-scooters are a relatively new phenomena in the UK, but one whose presence will grow and grow if implemented correctly.
“We are experts in road safety, and have been training drivers and other road users for over 30 years. This experience tells us that we need a strong road safety and risk management message conveyed to all e-scooter users, in order for this new form of mobility to fulfil its potential. We are delighted to work with Tier to achieve this. E-scooters can offer a lot to urban mobility, but we don’t want this to be at the expense of safety.”
DriveTech parent firm, the AA, also lent its backing to the move. President Edmund King said: “E-scooters could be an important innovation to transform mobility in town and city centres.
“I am really pleased that our road training business, DriveTech, is working in conjunction with Tier. Road safety is key and their novel e-scooter safety features – such as an integrated foldable helmet, larger front wheel and direction indicators all help ensure a safer riding experience. The AA and DriveTech see great synergies with our own road safety ethos.”
