#Japan #Tokyo #Luup #E-Scooter #navigation

LUUP Expands Navigation Features Nationwide

In an exciting development for users of micro-mobility services, Luup Co., Ltd., headquartered in Shinagawa, Tokyo, has announced the nationwide expansion of its navigation feature for electric kickboards and bicycles. This enhancement aims to support safe and comfortable rides by providing optional routes tailored for electric scooters and bikes through the LUUP app.

What is the Navigation Feature?

The navigation feature displays recommended routes directly on the app screen when users select their destination port. If users change their destination, the displayed route updates automatically, ensuring they receive the relevant guidance whether riding an electric bicycle or kickboard.

LUUP's service is characterized by two main points: users must reserve a destination port before their ride, and all vehicles come equipped with smartphone holders. These conditions enhance the utility of the navigation feature, making it a reliable tool for users.

Interestingly, LUUP stands out as the only micro-mobility sharing service that allows users to confirm routes leading to their booked destination ports, setting it apart in the market.

Trial Results in Tokyo

Starting in April 2024, LUUP conducted a pilot test of the navigation feature exclusively for iOS users within Tokyo. The trial demonstrated the functionality's effectiveness, particularly beneficial for users of electric scooters. Feedback indicated that routes avoiding heavy traffic and minimizing turns offered users a safer and more pleasant riding experience.

Positive Findings

• - In a survey conducted in May 2024, 70% of first-time electric kickboard users found the route information helpful during their ride.
• - When asked when they would rely on the navigation feature, 58% of respondents noted they would reference it during unfamiliar travel, while 23% would use it for all kinds of journeys.

These results confirm that the navigation feature is valuable for novice users, offering practical direction even for those new to electric kickboards, reinforcing the importance of mapped routes initially designed for bicycles.

Areas for Improvement

On the flip side, some participants expressed concerns regarding the navigation's clarity. Particularly, users of electric kickboards noted difficulties understanding the suggested paths. Additionally, those using the navigation feature reported experiencing safer rides—typically avoiding busy roads, taking fewer turns, and needing to make fewer complicated maneuvers at intersections.

This data underscores the necessity for clearer routing that favors lesser-trafficked streets and simplifies directions to enhance user comfort.

Enhancements to the Navigation Feature

Based on insights gained from the trial, LUUP has refined the navigation feature to include routes specifically designed for electric kickboards. Improvements stem from analysis of riding logs, user surveys, and interviews, focused on making the service more user-friendly and safe.

Key Changes

The updates have led to a notable decrease in the proportion of routes using busy roads by 13% and reduced both the number of turns by 24% and the frequency of right turns at signals by 42%. These enhancements significantly increase overall user satisfaction and safety.

Nationwide Rollout Details

The expanded navigation capabilities will officially launch on August 12, 2025. Every ride following this date will automatically incorporate the updated navigation system, available initially for both electric bicycles and kickboards within the national territory. However, only iOS users will be able to access this feature initially, with Android support coming later in the year.

Future Outlook

Looking ahead, LUUP plans to continuously evolve its navigation algorithms based on user feedback and data analysis to ensure the platform remains both safe and efficient. This initiative represents just one facet of LUUP's broader mission to develop innovative solutions that enhance the user experience throughout its growing services.

Company Overview

Founded in July 2018, Luup Co., Ltd. is committed to advancing the convenience of urban travel through innovative mobility solutions.

For more information, visit Luup or download the app for iOS and Android at the provided links.