Josh Hunter has been organizing nighttime rides on personal electric vehicles (PEVs) in Edmonton for five years. Recently, a diverse mix of electric-powered scooters, bicycles, skateboards, and unicycles gathered at the Alberta Legislature grounds for an early season tour. PEVs, primarily known as affordable and eco-friendly transportation for commuters during the day, are now increasingly popular for social leisure activities in Canadian cities after sunset.
Although Hunter’s group, PEV Edmonton, officially starts its season in June, a group of eager riders, numbering around two dozen, were excited for an evening cruise through the city’s river valley pathways and streets due to warm temperatures and clear skies. Describing the group as a modern-day biker gang, Hunter humorously mentioned that participants of all ages are welcome as long as they have a personal electric vehicle and a helmet, the latter being a mandatory safety rule.
During the ride, many riders showcased their personalized PEVs adorned with colorful lights and mirrors, proudly highlighting their motor wattage. Apart from enthusiasts, numerous people on rental e-scooters from companies like Lime, Neuron, and Bird were also enjoying a casual ride through the city without a specific destination in mind. For instance, newlyweds Habib Baalbaki and Zeinab Awada were exploring the city together on scooters, considering it a fun date idea.
Various individuals, including Kyson Fitzner, expressed their enjoyment of nighttime rides for the thrill and adrenaline rush. Fitzner, sporting an Edmonton Oilers jacket and a ball cap, demonstrated his skills by jumping a curb using a driveway ramp. Companies operating rental e-scooter and e-bike programs in Canada reported strong ridership after working hours, with a noticeable increase in usage during evenings and weekends.
According to Anastasia Rewers-Kusiak from Bird and Isaac Ransom from Neuron, a significant portion of trips on their e-scooters and e-bicycles occur during evening hours and weekends, indicating a trend toward nighttime recreational rides. Additionally, shared e-scooter services allow users to invite companions on rides, enhancing the social aspect of the experience.
In cities like Ottawa, Vancouver, and Halifax, similar groups engage in after-hours e-vehicle rides, attracting attention from both motorists and pedestrians. Safety precautions, such as wearing protective gear and adhering to traffic rules, are emphasized by both riders and rental companies to mitigate risks associated with PEV usage.
Despite the growing popularity of PEVs, public health data reveals an increase in PEV-related injuries across Canada. Regulations regarding e-scooter usage vary among cities, with Toronto prohibiting their use entirely. As riders continue to enjoy the convenience and affordability of PEVs, promoting responsible riding practices remains crucial to ensure the safety of all users.