Electric scooter trials suspended in three Somerset towns

In three towns in Somerset, the operation of e-scooters has been temporarily suspended with immediate effect.

Zipp Mobility’s e-scooter tests in Taunton, Minehead and Yeovil, which have been successful since 2020, have been stopped by the operator due to an unexpected supplier problem.

The trials should continue until the end of May 2026. Zipp Mobility is reviewing the situation to consider next steps.

While the service is suspended, the scooters will be removed from city centers and users will be notified via push notification on the user app.

The initiative is a collaboration between DfT, Somerset Council and Zipp Mobility in Taunton and Minehead, with operator Zwings conducting the trial in Yeovil. Zwings has since merged with Zipp Mobility. The aim is for all scooters in the three towns to carry the same brand.

Richard Wilkins, Somerset Council’s lead member for transport and digital, said: “It is disappointing that the trials have to be suspended but we are really confident that this can be resolved soon. We know Zipp Mobility is working hard on a solution.

“The Council is committed to sustainable transport options as part of its 2030 net zero climate target and e-scooters play an important role in achieving this goal.”

Charlie Wilson, UK Country Manager for Zipp Mobility, said: “We are disappointed to have to suspend our service in Somerset due to an unforeseen issue. We are working hard to find a solution and apologise for any inconvenience this will cause to our drivers and the wider public in the meantime.”