Josh Hunter has been organizing night tours on personal electric vehicles in Edmonton for half a decade. On a recent Friday evening at the Alberta Legislature grounds, a diverse mix of electric-powered scooters, bicycles, skateboards, and unicycles gathered for an early season ride. While considered an eco-friendly and cost-effective commuting option during the day, personal electric vehicles (PEVs) have gained popularity as a social and recreational activity in Canadian cities after sunset.
Although PEV Edmonton’s official season kickoff is in June, warm weather and clear skies drew a group of around twenty riders eager for a nighttime excursion through the city’s river valley pathways and streets. Hunter humorously likened the group to a contemporary biker gang, welcoming riders of all ages with personal electric vehicles and helmets, which are mandatory.
Many participants on the group ride had decked out their machines with vibrant lights and mirrors, showcasing the power of their motors. However, not every individual on a PEV that Friday night in Edmonton was a seasoned enthusiast. Concurrently, several groups of people were spotted leisurely riding rental e-scooters from Lime, Neuron, and Bird around the city core, enjoying a casual sightseeing experience.
Married couple Habib Baalbaki and Zeinab Awada described their scooter outing as a fun date idea, with Baalbaki likening the experience to an exhilarated form of walking. On the other hand, Kyson Fitzner, cruising with friends, expressed his preference for nighttime rides for the excitement and adrenaline rush, showcasing his skills by performing tricks like jumping curbs.
Data from companies operating rental e-scooter and e-bike programs in Canada indicates a notable increase in ridership during evenings and weekends, with a strong demand for shared e-scooters during what Neuron’s Isaac Ransom terms as “the nighttime economy.” The appeal of group riding and shared e-scooters has resonated with users seeking recreational activities, particularly post-pandemic.
Beyond Edmonton, cities like Ottawa, Vancouver, and Halifax also boast social media-active groups engaging in after-hours e-vehicle rides. These tours garner attention from both motorists and pedestrians, with onlookers often expressing surprise and delight at the unique sight. Despite the recreational allure, public health data highlights a concerning rise in PEV-related injuries as the vehicles surge in popularity across Canada.
With varying regulations on e-scooter usage and rental age requirements in different cities, safety remains a paramount concern. Operators like Lime stress safe riding practices, visibility, and adherence to traffic rules, prohibiting riding under the influence. Enthusiasts like Trevor Neufeld emphasize personal safety gear, such as protective pads and modified jackets, to mitigate risks during rides.
As the popularity of e-scooters and e-bikes continues to grow, authorities are grappling with the need for stricter regulations to ensure public safety. While the trend of nighttime e-vehicle excursions gains momentum, balancing the thrill of riding with safety precautions remains a key priority for riders and operators alike.