TAIPEI (TVBS News) — In the heart of Taipei, a green revolution spearheaded by YouBike is underway, marking a pivotal step towards achieving the city's environmental goals. To reduce carbon emissions by 40% and elevate public transportation utilization to 70% by 2030, YouBike has initiated a game-changing policy, offering the first 30 minutes of each ride for free starting Feb. 28.
A 2023 Transportation Department survey has illuminated a notable shift in commuting habits, with over 60% of car and scooter users considering YouBike for short-distance travel. This attests to the growing preference for eco-friendly transportation options and underscores the city's residents' support for YouBike's “first 30 minutes for free” policy.
Despite its success, YouBike has encountered challenges, notably bike shortages during peak hours. To address this, Taipei is actively intensifying scheduling efforts and augmenting the number of YouBike dispatchers to meet escalating demand.
Mayor Chiang Wan-an has unveiled ambitious expansion plans, slated to add an extra 6,000 bikes to the fleet by 2024, aiming to achieve a total of 27,500 YouBikes by 2026. This comprehensive expansion, supported by an NT$500 million investment over five years, seeks to bolster accessibility and convenience for residents and visitors, seamlessly integrating YouBike into Taipei's urban fabric.
Despite concerns about bike availability during peak periods, these strategic investments underscore Taipei's commitment to a sustainable and accessible future. By strategically increasing the number of bikes and stations, Taipei is addressing immediate transportation needs and laying the groundwork for enduring environmental benefits.
This forward-thinking approach solidifies Taipei's status as a model city for sustainable urban mobility, showcasing the transformative potential of green initiatives in urban environments.