eBikes can now be hired in the borough thanks to the launch of the WMCA eBike hire scheme.

The distinctive green and purple bikes eBikes launched across the region on Wednesday 8 December and compliment the pedal bikes already available to hire from a number of docking stations across Stourbridge.

eBikes can be hired in the same way as a pedal bike – simply scan the touchpad or enter the bike ID to release the bike. The app also shows users where their nearest bike or eBike can be located. eBikes cost £1.50 to unlock and 10p per minute of riding or users can hire them as part of a minute bundle and pay 5p per minute and the £1.50 unlock fee. This can be linked to a credit card or via the new Swift App.

The eBikes give the rider the additional benefit of electric powered assistance, helpful for hills or to speed up the journey home. The pedal bike scheme has already proven popular in the borough since its launch in April. Councillor Karen Shakespeare, cabinet member for public realm said:

"The pedal bike scheme has been really popular and these new eBikes allow people who perhaps have a longer or more challenging journey to get there by bike. They’re also perfect for people returning to cycling, helping them on the hills as they build up their stamina.

"I’m really proud to be part of the scheme which encourages more people to leave their car at home, reducing the number of vehicles on the road and use this greener form of transport."

The cycle hire scheme has been delivered by Transport for West Midlands, part of the West Midlands Combined Authority, to encourage more people to become active and healthy and offer a convenient and more environmentally friendly alternative to the car for shorter journeys.

There are now 170 fixed docking stations and 1,500 bikes for hire across the region - of which 150 are powered e-bikes. Each local authority within the WMCA has around 10% of its bike allocation as eBikes, but bikes and eBikes can be hired, used and parked at stands across the region so numbers in each area may change on a daily basis. Simply use the app to find your nearest bike or eBike.

The five-year contract with Serco, the operator of London’s successful Santander Cycle Hire scheme, offers the opportunity for more docks and bikes to be provided as demand increases.

The bikes are made by Pashley’s in Stratford-upon Avon and the docking stations and locks are also manufactured in the West Midlands. More details online at wmcyclehire.co.uk.