TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Taipei City Department of Transportation announced on Friday (Jan. 5) that the date for reinstating the free 30-minute YouBike rental policy will be confirmed after the approval of the 2024 budget. This initiative, part of the city's broader strategy to cut carbon emissions by 40% and boost green transportation usage to 70% by 2030, is designed to promote the use of carbon-neutral vehicles.
The policy, first introduced in 2012 and discontinued in 2015 by former mayor Ko Wen-je, has garnered significant public support. A 2023 survey indicated a favorable response from motorcyclists and the YouBike community, with over 60% of motorcyclists expressing willingness to switch to YouBike for shorter journeys.
To mitigate potential bike shortages due to the policy, the department has already increased the number of available bikes. An additional 1,780 bikes were added in May and 1,500 in December 2023, raising bike availability from 80% to 90% citywide.
Looking forward, the department plans to add 6,000 more YouBikes in 2024, following its existing strategy. It also aims to enhance scheduling and staffing to meet the anticipated higher demand driven by the free 30-minute policy.