Athens, Greece - After a four-year absence, Lime scooters are making a comeback in Greece, with a phased rollout beginning in Athens and Thessaloniki. This return signals a recovery for the company, which saw a staggering 95% revenue drop due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The rollout began on May 30th, 2024, with a batch of Lime's latest scooter model deployed near Thessaloniki's iconic White Tower. Next month, the company will introduce scooters to the southern suburbs of Athens. Lime aims to gradually deploy a total of 500 scooters across both cities.
Lime's re-entry comes amidst challenges for e-scooter rentals in Greece. Unclear regulations, theft, and vandalism have plagued the industry. RideMovi, an e-bike rental company, recently suspended its Athens operations due to rampant vandalism.
Despite the challenges, Athens presents a promising market for e-scooters thanks to its favorable weather. However, a lack of dedicated infrastructure and comprehensive legislation pose significant hurdles. While Greece incorporated e-scooter regulations into its Highway Code in 2021, mandating helmets and a 25 km/h speed limit, industry insiders believe further development is crucial for long-term success.