Grab Indonesia’s e-scooter rental service GrabWheels is rolling back out in Jakarta after it was suspended since the beginning of the coronavirus outbreak in Indonesia.
Grab Indonesia President Ridzki Kramadibrata announced the relaunch today during an event at the Transportation Ministry, along with new health precautions for all riders.
“We are employing people to monitor the spots where GrabWheels are available. There are also hand sanitizers, and all vehicles will be disinfected to guarantee safety. GrabWheels users are urged to bring their own helmet,” Ridzki said.
The first phase of the relaunch sees GrabWheels returning to seven locations, namely Intiland Tower, Kuningan City, Blok M Square, Blok M Mall, Thamrin 10, Lotte Shopping Avenue, and BRI 2 tower.
“In these locations 200 e-scooter units will be operational. Of course, there will be more in due course,” Ridzki said.
GrabWheels launched in May 2019 to become the first e-scooter-for-rent service in Indonesia. It quickly became popular among youths in Jakarta and Tangerang — mostly for recreational purposes — before a couple of fatal accidents and incidents led to stricter regulations.
In November 2019, the Jakarta Metro Police limited all e-scooters to designated areas, which exclude public roads, sidewalks, and bicycle lanes.
