Voi 4 Heroes initiative launches

Free scooter rides offered for NHS and emergency service workers during lockdown.

The micro-mobility company Voi is offering free rides to NHS and Emergency Service staff in the regions where it operates to help them travel safely, using a social distancing mode of transport during Lockdown 2.0. Free rides will be available to NHS and emergency service workers in the cities where Voi has trials, including Birmingham.

For Lockdown 2.0, Voi is providing rides as part of its Voi 4 Heroes initiative throughout the duration of the second lockdown, so it is easier for them to travel around in a socially-distanced manner in their city. To apply for a Voi 4 Heroes pass, users need to upload a valid NHS identity, Blue Light card or a Defence Discount Service through the Voi website.

The identity card must be clear and legible and include the full face of the document. On receipt of the proof, Voi will send a confirmation email allowing the rider to claim free rides in the Voi app, any rides taken before are not eligible for discount. Existing Voi users will receive in-app and email messaging updates, to raise awareness of the initiative and the latest Covid-19 guidance.

During Covid-19, e-scooters have become an affordable and eco-friendly alternative to travelling around cities by car or public transport. Voi launched UK services in selected cities over the last two months, as part of the UK government trial, and is now operating in six major UK cities, with more trials soon to be announced.

To keep riders safe, all Voi e-scooters are disinfected daily and the handlebars of each scooter feature copper tape which minimises coronavirus on contact. The Voi app also provides Covid-19 information and advice such as advising riders that they can wear gloves if that makes them feel more comfortable.

Other Voi safety features include encouraging riders to wear helmets, implementing geofenced no-ride and slow-go zones to keep speeds to at 5mph in required areas, while Voi staff monitor scooter activity, making sure they are well parked and maintained. All Voi e-scooters include number plates to help identify riders and reports of misuse are dealt with in close collaboration with local police.

Fredrik Hjelm, co-founder and CEO of Voi Technology, said: “The news of a second lockdown across England will be distressing for many. At Voi, we want to ensure that key workers can get around safely, without having to use public transport or be hit by cancelled services. This is why we’re offering free passes to NHS and Emergency Service Workers during this lockdown period. When facing a stressful day at work, the last thing you want to be worrying about is how to get home, and we hope that Voi can make things just that little bit easier for workers on the front line.”