Le Figaro Nice
Available since February 20 in several municipalities in the Nice metropolis, the “Pony” self-service bicycles have no longer been available since March 7 due to
“a suspected defect in its batteries”
, indicated the French company. in a press release.
A charging problem would be at the origin of this decision, adds the start-up based in Angers.
All 1000 bicycles, including 200 manuals, have been temporarily removed.
The company explains that it will
“individually test”
each of the batteries equipping the Nice fleet.
A
“preventive measure”
to
“avoid any security risk”
.
Other “Pony” bikes, deployed in other French cities, are not affected.
These bikes had been installed from Cagnes-sur-Mer to Beaulieu-sur-Mer, going up to Carros and passing through Nice, with those of the American giant “Lime”, in place of the old “Blue Bikes”. ".
90% of the offer thus became electric and therefore better adapted to the topography of the Côte d'Azur despite much more expensive prices.
Read also: Banking on electric, the metropolis of Nice is betting on “Lime” and “Pony” self-service bicycles
“Appropriate solution”
The “Pony” teams promised to provide an
“appropriate solution as quickly as possible”
.
It could take a few days if it's just a problem with one battery, or several weeks if they're all affected.
A company in Tours had manufactured them and therefore recovered them during the checks.
The metropolis of Nice, which had bet on this French start-up,
“deplored this decision which harms the needs of residents”
.
She considers the choice to also remove mechanical bicycles
“incomprehensible”
.
The community further warns that it could
“denounce their contract”
if a solution is not found
“as soon as possible”
.