E-Scooter Sharing App Development: Everything You Need to Know

In this fast-paced world, time is everything, especially when you live in metro cities. In a hassle to reach everywhere on time, you have booked a cab many times. While it is one of the most convenient options today, it may end up in problematic situations. Being a frequent traveler, you might have surely faced a situation where you booked a cab, waited for 10-15 minutes, and suddenly driver canceled the trip.

Most of us have suffered a similar situation; however, every problem comes with a solution. The emergence of “Electric Scooter Rental” services has been a game-changer in the travel industry. The wide success of these E-scooter-sharing apps has resulted in startups and entrepreneurs looking at it as a lucrative investment opportunity. 

Therefore, if you are also planning for an E-scooter-sharing app development, this blog will guide you through the entire process, alongside its benefits and challenges that come along. So, let’s get started!

What Exactly Is the E-Scooter Sharing Concept? 

Before we move forward, it is essential to have a basic understanding of Electric scooter rental services. So basically, the E-Scooter sharing app concept has gotten recognition over the last few years since the advent of EV scooters. It can be understood as a transport service like a cab and is best for short-term rentals. 

The biggest difference between cab and E-scooter services is the seating space they offer. While cabs can offer up to 4 seats, E-scooters are limited to offering one passenger seat, or you can expect one more seating space if you opt to drive it yourself by renting it. 

For businesses, the concept of E-scooter sharing app development is somewhat similar to carsharing or bike-sharing apps but is a better cost-effective option. 

Key Stats & Growth Projections for E-Scooter-Sharing Apps

• The E-scooter sharing app market revenue is forecasted to reach $1813 million by the end of 2023. 
• The E-scooter sharing app market share will likely increase at a CAGR of 18.8% from 2022 to 2028. 
• In 2019, there were an estimated 66,000 shared E-scooters worldwide, the number is expected to reach 500,000 by the end of 2025. 
• The current user penetration on E-Scooter sharing apps is 1.2%, which is expected to grow to 1.7% by 2027. 

Benefits of Investing in E-Scooter Sharing App Development

There is no surprise that the travel industry has undergone a transformative change due to mobile technology. The business idea of investing in E-Scooter sharing app development can bring immersed benefits. Here are some prominent benefits that come along: 

Inexpensive

The price factor plays a crucial role in customer satisfaction and retention. The lower price of hiring an E-scooter compared to Uber or Lyft can said to be the major factor behind the sudden demand for e-scooter mobile apps. 

While each cab ride may cost you $20-$30 depending on the surge, E-scooter rentals might cost you around $2-$3 per ride. It can be a feasible option for college students and low-wage workers. 

High Profitability 

Launching an Electric scooter rental service can be a great business idea if we look at the growing problem due to lack of public transportation. You can make high profits with an e-scooter sharing app by providing services on a time and distance basis. 

You can also charge according to the fixed time. Being a cost-effective option for both businesses and their customers, investing in E-scooter sharing app development can be highly profitable. 

Environment-Friendly

Today, air pollution is not only a major concern in developed countries. When you travel through areas with high traffic loads, you will understand that noise pollution is also increasing at an alarming rate. 

Additionally, the governments are also introducing many initiatives to control air pollution due to old petrol and diesel vehicles. Therefore, it is high time to invest in E-scooter sharing app development and be a part of a healthy environment. 

Comparatively Low Maintenance

While the E-scooter sharing app development may cost you thousands of dollars in hiring a good development team and buying EV scooters, this investment can reap in the long run. However, the cost of maintenance is comparatively less than the gas-run scooters and cab services. 

Preferred Choice 

E-scooter apps are the preferred choice of users these days due to their convenience. One more significant reason is that the users don’t have to worry about finding a parking space for it. Additionally, there is no noise pollution or air pollution and it offers a better way to avoid traffic jams. As people have started to embrace E-scooter-sharing services, the future of such apps is bright. 

Key Challenges in E-scooter Sharing App Development

When we talk about the probable benefits of the E-scooter Sharing app business, we can’t ignore the challenges that come along. Here are some key challenges to consider: 

• You will be required to get official permission and certificates from the city or state council before launching your services. 
• Consider providing proper guidance on app usage along with all safety measures and rules to users. 
• Extreme weather conditions may interrupt electric scooter operations, you should be prepared for these conditions in advance. 
• You will have to set up charging stations.

Every business has its unique challenges, which require special efforts and time to overcome. While it may discourage many entrepreneurs, once you overcome them, you will undoubtedly expect higher profits. 

Must-Have Features and Functionalities of an E-Scooter Sharing App

An app with all required features and functionalities possesses a higher chance of wide adoption. In Electric Scooter rental app development, these features are classified into two broad categories: Admin Panel and User Panel. 

Here’s a list of must-have features to be integrated into your E-scooter sharing app development: 

Admin Panel Feature

The functionalities of the Admin Panel are limited to the developer and business owner. They can modify the features according to their requirements and preferences. 

1). Login

The admin can log into the backend panel by entering credentials like

• Email
• Password

2). Dashboard

Admin can have a look at the information and data of its users, such as

• Total number of users 
• Payment collected
• Total payment of parking points
• Number of e-scooters in use

3). Manage E- Scooters

Not just the details of your users, you can also have complete information about your e-scooters. 

• The list of e-scooters on the system. 
• Scooter ID

• Scooter location
• Battery status of E-scooter

4). Manage Rides

The admin of the app can also manage the status of rides through this feature. They can 

• See the status of live rides
• Can track the ride of a particular user
• Search the ride 

5). Manage Users

You can manage the details of your users using this feature. You can modify the details like

• Add/ Edit/Delete any user
• Track user’s payment of the users
• Track the rides
• Deactivate user account

6). Manage E-wallet

This feature allows admin to monitor and track the e-wallet activities of their users. They can

• View the amount available in the wallet
• Transfer the refund amount
• Track wallet history 

7). Manage Parking Points

This backend feature allows admin to manage the parking points of their e-scooters from their pick up to the drop. They can 

• Add/delete parking points 
• View parking point name 
• View the address of the parking points
• Modify parking point status 

8). Manage Prices

Using this feature, the admin can manage the ride prices. They can charge on a fixed basis or on per per-minute basis. They can decide between the available options. 

9). Manage Notifications

The feature helps the admin manage notifications to be sent to the users. They can choose to send customized notifications to users. They can be 

• Payment received 
• Any new users added to the system 
• Negative reviews, feedback, and user complaints. 

10). Manage CMS Pages

Using this feature admin can manage the content management systems to 

• Create new pages
• Edit T&C and About Us
• Manage the privacy policy

11). Manage Payments

The feature allows the app admin to monitor and track all the payments received in the system. They can search for payment history, or even refund the customer in case of any conflict. 

12). Manage Languages

Using this feature, the admin can offer multiple language options to app users. It helps in smooth and efficient content localization. 

13). Manage Coupon Codes

The feature allows businesses to manage exclusive offers and coupon codes for users. They can 

• Offer exclusive coupons to any users
• Issue a new coupon and delete the old

14). Advance Analytics

With Advanced Analytics features, admins can have valuable insights into their business performance. They can have a better understanding through graphs and other analytical data. 

15). Manage Inquiries

Using this functionality, the admin can manage inquiries related to its business. They can 

• View the inquiries received
• Reply to any user inquiry
• Delete any inquiries from the system

User Panel Feature

Here’s a look into some essential features for the user panel - 

1). Registration

This is the first and most important feature of the app. The user needs to provide some basic information such as name, age, city, etc. to create an account and access the app’s services.

2). Ride Booking

This is the core feature of the app. The user can easily book an electric scooter for rent with a single tap.

3). GPS Tracking & Route Monitoring

This feature helps the user to navigate their way to their destination and locate the nearest available scooter. It also enables the app to track the scooter’s location and status.

4). Smart Lock

This is another security feature that can use biometric authentication such as eye or thumb scanning to lock and unlock the scooter. This can prevent theft and vandalism of the scooter.

5). In-App Payment

This feature allows the user to pay for the ride securely and conveniently through the app itself. The user can choose from various payment options such as credit card, debit card, or digital wallet.

6). QR Code Scanning

This is an optional feature that can improve the security of the app. The user can scan a QR code on the scooter to lock and unlock it, preventing unauthorized access.

7). Nearby Parking Spot

This feature helps the user to find the closest parking spot for the scooter. This can reduce the clutter and inconvenience of parking on the streets.

8). SOS Notification

This feature alerts the nearby station if the scooter faces any problem such as low battery or fire. The station can then send help or pick up the scooter for repair.

9). User Feedback

This feature allows the user to rate and review their ride experience and provide suggestions for improvement. The app can use this feedback to enhance its service quality and customer satisfaction.

10). Interactive Map

This feature provides the user with a map that can use advanced technology to guide them by voice command. This can make the navigation easier and safer for the user while driving.

11). Trip History

This feature enables the user to view their past rides and details such as distance, duration, cost, etc. The user can also access this information if they face any issue or dispute with the app.

12). Live Chat

This feature enables the user to chat with a customer support agent in case of any emergency or query. The agent can provide guidance and assistance to resolve the issue as soon as possible.

13). Coupon & Referral Code

This feature rewards the user with coupons or discounts for completing certain tasks or milestones such as riding a certain distance or number of rides. The user can also refer their friends or family to use the app and get more benefits.

14). E-Wallet

This feature allows the user to create a digital wallet within the app and store money for future rides. The user does not need to enter their card details or add money every time they book a ride; they can simply pay from their wallet.

Latest Technology Trends to Watch Out in E-Scooter Sharing App Development

The integration of modern technologies in your E-scooter-sharing app not only offers an immersive experience to your users but also opens up new streams of revenue. Here’s how technology integration helps your Electric scooter rental services: 

Gamification Features 

By adding gamification elements to the app, users can have more fun and motivation to use the scooters. The app can offer rewards, rankings, and challenges for achieving certain riding objectives, making the rental experience more engaging and competitive.

AI/ML-Based Predictive Analysis 

The app can leverage Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning to understand user behavior and anticipate demand trends. This can help ensure that users can easily find scooters when they need them and that scooters are distributed efficiently in areas with high demand.

Blockchain for Secure Transactions 

The app integrated with blockchain technology can create smart contracts for renting agreements that are transparent and secure. This can also build trust between users and the platform, as well as automate the rental process without intermediaries.

5G Connectivity 

By integrating 5G technology, the app can enable faster and more reliable communication between the app and the scooters. This can result in quicker unlocking times and real-time data exchange for a better user experience.

IoT-Ready Scooters 

The app can make the scooters IoT-enabled so they can send and receive information about their location, status, and battery level. This can assist with fleet management, maintenance, and ensuring that scooters are available and in good condition. Additionally, the app can integrate smart helmets with IoT capabilities that can track speed, location, and accident detection.

Automation in Fleet Operations 

The app can use automated systems for battery swapping, maintenance scheduling, and scooter allocation to optimize fleet operations and provide a seamless user experience.

How Can You Earn Through E-Scooter Sharing Apps?

There are several ways to generate revenue through E-scooter-sharing apps. All you need to do is choose a suitable business model from the following options:

Charge per ride

This is the simplest and most common way of generating revenue. You can charge your users a fixed fee for each ride they take, based on the distance or duration of the ride.

Offer Subscription Plans

You can also attract loyal customers by offering them monthly or yearly subscription plans. This way, they can enjoy unlimited rides for a low price. This will increase your user retention and satisfaction.

Display Advertisements

You can monetize your app by showing ads from other businesses or sponsors. These can be banner ads or native ads that blend with your app’s content. You can also promote local businesses that are relevant to your users.

Implement Surge Pricing and Geo-fencing

You can increase your revenue by adjusting your prices according to the availability of electric scooters in a particular area. You can also use geo-fencing to encourage your users to park their scooters in designated areas and charge them extra if they park outside.

Partner with Other Businesses

You can collaborate with other businesses that share your target audience and offer them incentives or discounts for riding your electric scooters. For example, you can partner with restaurants, cafes, cinemas, or shopping malls and give your users coupons or vouchers for visiting them.

In-app Purchases

You can also sell products related to electric scooters within your app, such as accessories, merchandise, or insurance. This will create an additional source of income and enhance your brand image.

Step-by-Step Process of E-Scooter Sharing App Development

The initial step in starting an electric scooter rental service and getting an enterprise-grade app developed is to find the best development partner. Consider choosing the top and most reliable mobile app development company and follow the below steps to get your dream app developed. 

Market Research and Analysis 

The first step before developing the app is to conduct thorough market research and analysis. This will help you understand the market conditions and the demand for your business EV-App idea. You can also learn from your competitor’s strengths and weaknesses and devise effective strategies to succeed. 

App Designing 

The app design is crucial for drawing the attention of users and retaining them. You should aim for a simple and elegant design with soothing colors. You should start the app designing process by getting the app prototype and wireframes approved before moving on to front-end development.

Front & Back End Development 

You should ensure that the app is visually appealing, attractive, and responsive to the user’s preferences, as well as easy to navigate. In the back-end development, you will cover the coding and programming of the app, as well as integrate third-party services such as payment methods, GPS, etc. Therefore, you should hire a reputable mobile app development company.

App Testing 

App testing is crucial for B2C apps. Before launching the app, you should check if there are any bugs or issues in the app and fix them. Only then you can proceed to the deployment process.

Launch & Maintenance 

The final step is to launch the app in an app store, either in Google Play or Apple’s App Store. If the app is cross-platform, then you can launch it in both. You should also keep updating the app regularly to maintain its quality and performance.

Average Cost of E-Scooter Sharing App Development

The cost of developing an E-scooter sharing app varies depending on several factors. All these factors together fluctuate the entire cost of development. These include: 

• App’s Complexity
• UI/UX Design
• App’s Platform - Android, iOS or Cross-platform
• App’s Features and Functionalities
• Experience and Team Size of your App Development Company

While decoding the exact cost of E-scooter sharing app development is challenging, you can expect the average cost of development to be around $30,000 to $90,000. 

Popular E-Scooter Sharing App Businesses’ Stories to Inspire You

As of 2023, there are dozens of e-scooter-sharing apps available in the App Store. Here are the three most downloaded and popular Electric scooter rental service providers: 

Spin 

Spin was founded in 2016, inspired by the dockless bike model in China. They launched their service in 16 cities in the US and reached 5,000 rides within a week. They have more than a million users who enjoy their e-scooter-sharing app. 

Lime 

Lime was launched in June 2017 in Silicon Valley, with a funding of $12 million. They started with 125 bikes in January 2018 but soon expanded to electric bikes and e-scooters in February 2018. 

Lime scooters are charged by private contractors who collect and recharge them overnight and place them at designated spots. Lime bikes have a GPS navigation system, a 3G connection, a solar panel, and a smart lock system to prevent theft. 

Bird 

Bird is one of the pioneers of the e-scooter-sharing app development trend that emerged in the second half of this decade. They were founded in April 2017 and became the fastest company to reach a billion-dollar valuation, with an initial funding of $17 million. 

They have 10 million riders who use their app in over 100 cities across Europe and North America. They operate in 11 countries and offer a convenient and eco-friendly way of transportation.

Conclusion

E- scooter sharing service is an emerging market niche that has been attracting environmentally conscious customers and visionary investors. This can improve the daily travel experience of users in the cities without any hassle. 

Thus, investing in E-scooter sharing app development can be an excellent business idea with huge profit potential. As you have understood the nitty-gritty of E-scooter sharing services, all you now need to do is hire a reputable app development company like Mtoag Technologies.