LUUP Launches Electric Kickboard Sharing Service in Southwestern Ehime Prefecture
Luup, a leading provider of micro-mobility solutions, is excited to announce the launch of its electric kickboard sharing service "LUUP" in the southwestern region of Ehime Prefecture from August 1 to November 30, 2025. This initiative falls under the umbrella of "LUUP for Community," which partners with local governments, businesses, and organizations to implement and operate the LUUP service in various regions. The main goal of this trial is to test the effectiveness of electric kickboards in enhancing local transportation systems and encouraging tourist visits to this charming area.
The southwestern region of Ehime, comprising Uwajima City, Ainang Town, Kikuhoku Town, and Matsuno Town, is renowned for its stunning rias coastline and the Shikoku Mountains, which create a picturesque landscape. This area not only offers breathtaking views but is also famous for its delicious local delicacies, including fresh seafood from the Uwajima Sea, juicy citrus fruits, and various game dishes. The introduction of LUUP's electric kickboards aims to provide an alternative means of transportation in a region facing challenges due to declining population and increasing reliance on personal vehicles.
The local public transportation in the Ehime Prefecture is at a crossroads, primarily due to rapid population decline, increasing age demographics, and the widespread use of private cars. Particularly in the south-western region, measures need to be taken to address the critical issue of diminishing public transport use. To break this dependency on personal vehicles, a multi-modal approach combining community buses and sharing mobility services is urgently required.
This partnership with local authorities comes at a pivotal moment when community engagement can determine the success of future mobility solutions. The LUUP electric kickboard initiative is designed not only to test the viability of electric scooters as a transportation option but also to positively impact the local economy by facilitating easier access to community events, shops, and tourist attractions. With the establishment of charging and docking ports—five in total—the electric kickboard service will be strategically placed at key transit points, allowing residents and visitors to easily navigate the area.
Using the smartphone application "LUUP," users can conveniently unlock and ride electric kickboards between designated ports. This service aims to cover the gap in transportation that often occurs after disembarking from public transit, encouraging further use of local transport. At an affordable rate of 150 yen (tax included) per 30 minutes, this service is not only economical but also environmentally friendly, aligning with Luup's mission to create a "station-front" infrastructure for short-distance travel.
Experts note that the LUUP initiative could significantly contribute to revitalizing the region, which is currently grappling with the challenges posed by an aging population and decreased public infrastructure. According to Takahiko Nishiyama, Chairman of the Ehime Prefectural Public Transport Network Council, the installation of LUUP ports at train stations and bus stop premises will modernize last-mile connectivity, enhancing the overall user experience with public transport.
"Visitors are encouraged to experience the beautiful landscapes of southern Ehime using LUUP," Nishiyama said. "We hope this service will provide not only convenience but also a chance to enjoy the serene beauty of our region. We eagerly await your arrival in southern Ehime!"
In summary, the LUUP electric kickboard sharing service is not just a new transportation method; it represents a commitment to solving local mobility challenges and enhancing the quality of life in the southwestern region of Ehime Prefecture. By offering a solution that combines community engagement, environmental responsibility, and technological innovation, Luup aims to redefine public transport in areas that need it the most. For more information on this service and to stay updated, visit the official LUUP website.
Service Overview
Eligibility and Conditions: Users must verify their age and pass a traffic rules test via the app before using the kickboards. Insurance is also provided, covering damages and personal injury. For more details, visit LUUP Support.
The southwestern region of Ehime, comprising Uwajima City, Ainang Town, Kikuhoku Town, and Matsuno Town, is renowned for its stunning rias coastline and the Shikoku Mountains, which create a picturesque landscape. This area not only offers breathtaking views but is also famous for its delicious local delicacies, including fresh seafood from the Uwajima Sea, juicy citrus fruits, and various game dishes. The introduction of LUUP's electric kickboards aims to provide an alternative means of transportation in a region facing challenges due to declining population and increasing reliance on personal vehicles.
The local public transportation in the Ehime Prefecture is at a crossroads, primarily due to rapid population decline, increasing age demographics, and the widespread use of private cars. Particularly in the south-western region, measures need to be taken to address the critical issue of diminishing public transport use. To break this dependency on personal vehicles, a multi-modal approach combining community buses and sharing mobility services is urgently required.
This partnership with local authorities comes at a pivotal moment when community engagement can determine the success of future mobility solutions. The LUUP electric kickboard initiative is designed not only to test the viability of electric scooters as a transportation option but also to positively impact the local economy by facilitating easier access to community events, shops, and tourist attractions. With the establishment of charging and docking ports—five in total—the electric kickboard service will be strategically placed at key transit points, allowing residents and visitors to easily navigate the area.
Using the smartphone application "LUUP," users can conveniently unlock and ride electric kickboards between designated ports. This service aims to cover the gap in transportation that often occurs after disembarking from public transit, encouraging further use of local transport. At an affordable rate of 150 yen (tax included) per 30 minutes, this service is not only economical but also environmentally friendly, aligning with Luup's mission to create a "station-front" infrastructure for short-distance travel.
Experts note that the LUUP initiative could significantly contribute to revitalizing the region, which is currently grappling with the challenges posed by an aging population and decreased public infrastructure. According to Takahiko Nishiyama, Chairman of the Ehime Prefectural Public Transport Network Council, the installation of LUUP ports at train stations and bus stop premises will modernize last-mile connectivity, enhancing the overall user experience with public transport.
"Visitors are encouraged to experience the beautiful landscapes of southern Ehime using LUUP," Nishiyama said. "We hope this service will provide not only convenience but also a chance to enjoy the serene beauty of our region. We eagerly await your arrival in southern Ehime!"
In summary, the LUUP electric kickboard sharing service is not just a new transportation method; it represents a commitment to solving local mobility challenges and enhancing the quality of life in the southwestern region of Ehime Prefecture. By offering a solution that combines community engagement, environmental responsibility, and technological innovation, Luup aims to redefine public transport in areas that need it the most. For more information on this service and to stay updated, visit the official LUUP website.
Service Overview
- - Service Type: Electric Kickboard Sharing
- - Usage: Rent electric kickboards through the LUUP app, traveling between ports.
- - Operation Period: August 1 - November 30, 2025
- - Pricing: 150 yen for 30 minutes
- - Fleet Size: 22 kickboards
- - Port Locations: 5 ports, including two at JR Uwajima Station and others at various strategic points close to public transport.
Eligibility and Conditions: Users must verify their age and pass a traffic rules test via the app before using the kickboards. Insurance is also provided, covering damages and personal injury. For more details, visit LUUP Support.
Topics Travel）
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