New bike sharing in Leipzig: flexibly cycle until the end of 2025!

New bike sharing in Leipzig: flexibly cycle until the end of 2025!

In Leipzig, the bike sharing offering is being significantly expanded with a new station at Post Mockau. The initiative is part of a collaboration between Leipziger Verkehrsbetriebe (LVB) and nextbike, which will run through a pilot phase until the end of 2025. Over 30 additional rental stations are to be set up to offer commuters a flexible and environmentally friendly mobility alternative. This project is supported by federal funding and aims to make it easier to switch to trams and buses, especially for commuters in the city. Ahoi Leipzig reports that these measures are intended not only to simplify mobility, but also to promote the use of public transport.

Registration is free to use the bike sharing system. However, a deposit of 1 euro is required to verify the account; this amount is used as rental credit. The rental process is made easy by scanning a QR code on the bike via the nextbike app. A special function allows users to pause the trip without ending the rental. During the break the rent will be charged continuously. Returns are free in non-colored streets or at stations, while in the yellow zone there is a surcharge of 1 euro. Bicycles can also be returned in Schkeuditz, which further increases flexibility. Nextbike has created a user-friendly system that significantly improves mobility in the city.

Growth opportunities in the European bike sharing market

The bike sharing market in Europe is showing impressive growth. In 2024, sustainable mobility initiatives are expected to continue to gain importance. According to the “Shared Ambition 2024” report from Cycling Industries Europe (CIE), a fleet of 270,000 bicycles in European cities could save 270,000 tonnes of CO₂ annually. According to the report, cities such as Paris and Antwerp lead in trips per 1,000 inhabitants. A crucial success factor for bike sharing is the fleet size; At least 50 bicycles per 10,000 inhabitants are recommended to optimize usage. Connected Cycle highlights the significant potential that lies in expanding fleets and investing in infrastructure.

The combination of flexible offers and strategic support from the city of Leipzig helps ensure that the bike sharing model not only becomes part of urban mobility, but also plays a key role in decarbonization and an active mobility policy. The adaptive approach in Leipzig could also serve as a template for other cities to introduce similar measures.