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Helbiz plans to acquire Skip’s scooters

Micromobility group makes buy in order to grow US presence in last-mile transport
By Ben Spencer December 31, 2020 Read time: 2 mins
Helbiz says deal comes as micromobility sector is expected to make a strong post-pandemic recovery (© NycRuss | Dreamstime.com)

Micromobility company Helbiz has announced plans to acquire Skip’s scooter operations in a bid to expand its US operations.

Skip operates 2,500 scooters in Washington, DC. 

Helbiz CEO Salvatore Palella says: "Through the acquisition of Skip, we can continue to scale and grow our US presence to offer last-mile transportation options to local communities across the country. We are committed to working closely with the Skip team to build and develop unparalleled features and products that not only benefit our riders but exceeds expectations in safety and sustainability measures.”

Stefano Ciravegna, head of strategy and M&A at Helbiz, says:“ The transaction with Skip comes at a time when the micromobility sector is expected to make a strong post-pandemic recovery.”

Skip is to continue providing access to scooters for underserved neighbourhoods and essential workers in Washington, DC. 

Helbiz builds products and technology which can be integrated into legacy infrastructures to aid the emergence of sustainable communities.

The company says it partners with cities and municipalities around the world to offer e-scooters, e-bikes and e-mopeds that complement existing transportation systems.

Helbiz is not alone in its effort to ramp up micromobility in the US. In August, Bird, Lime and Spin received the green light to operate up to 10,000 e-scooters between them in Chicago as part of a four-month pilot.

 

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