Luup Launches Innovative Electric Mobility Share in Saitama, Japan

On September 10, 2026, Luup, a company headquartered in Shinagawa, Tokyo, began an exciting new chapter in transportation by launching a micro-mobility share service called "LUUP" in Saitama City. This groundbreaking initiative features electric assist bicycles and electric seat boards, making it the first of its kind in Japan. The launch day also saw a signing ceremony for a collaborative agreement between Luup, Saitama City, and a company called Tsunagu, which manages the "Saitama City Everyone's App."

The Need for Sustainable Transport

Saitama City has been facing challenges like insufficient taxi services during certain hours and traffic congestion resulting from excessive car usage for short-distance travel. The introduction of shared mobility services is a promising solution that aims to connect transportation hubs and residential areas, providing an eco-friendly alternative for the first and last mile of commuting.

Aligned with this vision, Luup aims to build not just a transportation service but an entire infrastructure that enhances urban mobility and stimulates local economic activity. The collaboration with Saitama City is based on their mutual interest in improving community interactions and fostering vibrant local economies.

Safety Comes First

To ensure public safety, Luup conducted a safety workshop on the launch day. Participants learned important traffic rules, received user guidebooks and fans, and even had the chance to experience riding the vehicles. The event emphasized the need for adherence to proper traffic guidelines for electric bicycles and seat boards, creating a foundation for safe usage.

Luup is committed to raising awareness about traffic regulations through continuous community engagement, educational workshops, and partnerships with local authorities and businesses.

Integration with Local Services

The collaboration also involves integrating features with Saitama City's digital regional currency, "Sai Coin." Users can exchange Sai Coins for exclusive LUUP coupons within the app, aiming to provide an accessible transportation option for both residents and visitors. An initial offering includes a special coupon for three 30-minute rides available for 100 yen worth of Sai Coins.

Additionally, mutual promotions between the LUUP app and the Saitama City Everyone's App are in the works, encouraging app users to engage more with local mobility services and stimulate regional tourism and commerce.

Service Details

The LUUP service allows users to travel using a smartphone app to rent electric seat boards and bicycles from various designated ports throughout the city. This initiative is part of a pilot project that will run until October 2027, during which the company will assess user behavior to optimize the program further.

- Basic Ride Fee: 50 yen (tax included) + 15 yen/minute (tax included)
- Operational Area: Saitama City
- Vehicle Availability: Initially, 30 vehicles (15 electric seat boards and 15 electric bicycles), with plans for future expansion.
- Safety Measures: Users must submit identification and pass a traffic rule test to rent the electric seat boards.
- Comprehensive insurance: Covering personal injury and third-party liability.

Special “Free Ride” Promotion

To celebrate the launch, Luup is offering a "Free Ride" campaign allowing anyone registered on the LUUP app to ride for free for 30 minutes as many times as they like from September 10 to September 16. Users just need to download the LUUP app and register to take advantage of this limited-time offer.

Conclusion

The introduction of LUUP in Saitama City represents a significant step toward modernizing urban mobility through eco-friendly solutions. Luup not only provides a new transport option but also contributes to the overall improvement of Saitama's community and economy, making it a notable case in Japan's mobility landscape.