How to Start an eScooter Rental App Business?

The micro-mobility revolution is here, and eScooters are leading the charge! 

With the rising demand for eco-friendly, affordable, and convenient urban transport, the eScooter rental business has emerged as one of the most promising startup opportunities in 2025. 

If you're wondering how to start an eScooter rental app business, now is the perfect time to explore this exciting space.

Whether you're an entrepreneur or a startup dreamer, building a scooter sharing business from scratch might sound challenging. But don’t worry, it’s totally doable with the right plan and guidance. 

In this blog, we’ll break down the process step by step, so that you can confidently start your eScooter app journey and turn your idea into a thriving business.

What is an eScooter Rental App Business?

An eScooter app business allows users to rent electric scooters through a mobile application for short-distance travel. The app handles everything like locating scooters and unlocking rides to payments and usage tracking. It helps to make urban commuting smart, sustainable, and convenient.

For businesses, the app acts as the central control system. It helps manage the scooter fleet, monitor user activity, handle transactions, and even track maintenance needs.

A well-designed app doesn't only improve user experience but also it drives the success of the entire business. That’s why having the right features and functionality is so important if you want to start an eScooter app business. 

We understand how the app works, now, let’s take a look at some key market statistics to see why this industry is gaining so much success.

Market Statistics of the eScooter App

The eScooter industry has witnessed remarkable growth in recent years. It helps urbanization, environmental concerns, and the demand for convenient transportation options. 

Here are some key market statistics of eScooter app:

• A study conducted by Grand View Research shows that in 2023, the global electric scooter market was valued at $37.07 billion, and it’s projected to grow steadily at a 9.9% annual rate through 2030.

• The integration of IoT, GPS, and mobile payment systems has enhanced the user experience, making eScooter apps more accessible and user-friendly. These types of trends of eScooter apps are attracting a broader customer base.

• With increasing environmental awareness, consumers are seeking eco-friendly transportation alternatives. eScooters offer a green solution, aligning with global sustainability goals.

• Market.us reports that the global eScooter rental apps market is expected to reach $16.9 billion by 2034, from $2.37 billion in 2024, growing at a CAGR of 21.7% during the forecast period.

Looking at these points, starting an eScooter rental app business is a great opportunity to grow in a rising market and support eco-friendly city travel.

Why Start an eScooter Rental App Business? 

The micro mobility trend is sweeping across cities, and electric scooters are leading the charge right at the forefront. If you're considering how to start an eScooter rental app business, the time is now to get in. 

Here are some of the main reasons why starting a scooter-sharing rental business is a wise and future-proof decision:

1. Increasing Demand for Urban Mobility

As cities fill up and individuals seek quicker, cheaper ways to get about, electric scooters are an increasingly popular choice. Starting an electric scooter for the rental business allows you to serve a rising pool of city dwellers who need convenient and speedy transportation.

2. Sustainability is the Future

Governments and consumers are both moving towards environmentally friendly transport. By investing in an eScooter rental app business, you're not only investing in a popular market but also in sustainable travel solutions—something that's attractive to users and policymakers alike.

3. Lower Operational Costs

As opposed to conventional car rentals, scooters are cost-effective to operate and maintain. This makes it easier to set up your eScooter rental business with low initial investment and affordable recurring costs, particularly using intelligent charging and GPS tracking systems.

4. Scalable Business Model

With a scalable business model, you can scale for one city or go across several cities. The scooter sharing rental business provides fantastic scalability. After developing your app and having the system in place, you can quickly increase your fleet and operations without starting from scratch. 

5. Tech-Driven User Experience

The core of any eScooter app business is technology. With the appropriate features—such as real-time tracking of scooters, convenient payments, ride history, and safety alerts—you can provide riders with a hassle-free riding experience that drives repeat use.

6. High Market Potential

As we discussed in the market statistics, the eScooter market is gradually increasing with good revenue estimates. So if you're thinking about how to start an eScooter rental app business, it is a golden chance to venture into a growing market with future prospects.

To launch an eScooter rental app business is to do more than ride the trend, it's to create an intelligent, scalable, and sustainable business that is commensurate with the future of urban mobility. 

If you are ready to launch your scooter sharing business, it is the ideal time to prepare, and create an eScooter app for your business.

Process to Set up Your Electric Scooter Rental Business

An electric scooter rental business of your own can be a game-changer in this mobility-led world. However, to make your idea a successful business, you must go through a well-planned process.

Let's know the process of starting an electric scooter rental app business.

► Understand the Market with In-Depth Research

If you want to start an eScooter app, before you dive in, it's worthwhile to know what market you're diving into. Begin by checking the popularity of eScooter rentals in your desired location.

Research your competitors: how much do they charge and what are their technological features? This will not only confirm your idea but also give you a clear direction to shape your scooter sharing business into something people need and enjoy using.

Things to focus on:

• Who are your potential users – students, tourists, working professionals?

• What kind of services do your competitors offer? How can you offer something better or unique?

• Understand pricing models, popular routes, and customer preferences.

This step will help you identify demand, avoid mistakes, and define your USP (unique selling point). Good research makes everything that follows much easier and more targeted.

► Choose the Right City or Location to Start

Your business location can determine your success. Not every city or town is suited for a scooter sharing rental business.

Look for places with busy streets, lots of tourists, or college campuses where people need quick rides. Cities that support eco-friendly transport and have bike lanes are usually a great choice. 

Also, check if local rules allow eScooter services before you launch.

Things to focus on:

• Tourist spots with high foot traffic.

• College and university areas where students need affordable transport.

• Busy urban areas where public transport is limited.

Make sure the city has proper infrastructure for eScooter movement like smooth roads, parking areas, and charging points.

► Plan Your Budget and Financial Roadmap

A good financial plan is the backbone of a successful company. Bootstrapping or raising money, mapping your spending is the place to start.

Write down all your projected expenses such as purchasing scooters, app development, marketing, and employees. Next, consider how you'll make money, like ride fares or monthly passes. 

Having a clear budget allows you to stay out of surprises and run your initiated e-scooter rental app business smoothly.

Things to focus on:

• Cost of purchasing or leasing scooters.

• App development and software management.

• Salaries for technical and operational staff.

• Marketing and customer acquisition expenses.

Set realistic short-term and long-term goals. Knowing your break-even point will help you track performance and manage expectations as you grow.

► Apply for City Licenses and Legal Approvals

No matter how innovative your idea is, without legal permission, you can’t start the eScooter app business in any city.

You’ll need to apply for licenses or permits from the city government before launching. Each city may have its own rules about where and how eScooters can operate. 

Make sure to follow all legal steps to avoid fines or shutdowns later.

Things to focus on:

• Check city laws and regulations regarding ride-sharing and electric mobility

• Apply for necessary tenders or government permissions

• Draft documents for vehicle insurance and liability coverage

• Ensure all scooters meet safety and environmental guidelines

This might take time, but getting everything legal from the start saves you from potential issues down the road.

► Choose Reliable Scooters and Sign Vendor Agreements

Your scooters are the foundation of your business. If your fleet is unreliable or prone to issues, customers won’t return.

Pick electric scooters that are durable, easy to maintain, and have good battery life. Work with trusted vendors and make clear agreements about support, repairs, and warranties. 

This way, your riders have a smooth experience, and you avoid extra costs.

Things to focus on:

• Durable frames and long battery life (at least 40–60 km per charge)

• Built-in GPS and anti-theft features

• IoT-based diagnostics for easy tracking and maintenance

• Focus on proper waterproof and shock-resistant.

Also, draft strong contracts with suppliers that cover delivery timelines, maintenance support, and warranty terms. These will protect your business and help manage your fleet better.

► Build a User-Friendly App with Smart Features

Your app is the face of your eScooter ride sharing app business. A smooth and attractive interface can make users stick around longer and use your service more frequently.

To create an eScooter app design that users love, make sure the app is easy to use, quick to load, and works well on both Android and iOS. Add smart features like GPS tracking, online payments, ride history, and customer support.

The better the app experience, the more likely users will come back.

Things to focus on:

• Real-time tracking and nearby scooter finder

• Simple sign-up and login with OTP or social media

• Ride history and in-app wallet or UPI payments

• Safety instructions and customer support integration

Think of your app as your digital store. The more intuitive and useful it is, the better the user experience.

► Set Up a Smart Fleet Monitoring System

Once your scooters hit the road, it’s essential to monitor them in real-time. Effective fleet management ensures customer safety, service reliability, and operational savings.

Track your scooters’ location, battery levels, and usage through your app or a management system. Regular maintenance and quick repairs keep your fleet running smoothly. 

A well-maintained fleet leads to fewer breakdowns and happier customers.

Things to focus on:

• Install GPS trackers on each scooter for real-time location data

• Use software to monitor battery levels and service needs

• Have a support team or technicians on standby for emergencies

• Create zones where scooters can be picked up and dropped off

This will reduce misuse, ensure timely repairs, and help you run the business more efficiently.

► Launch Your Business with Smart Marketing

After all the groundwork, it’s time to go live. Make sure people know your service exists and how it can help them.

List your app on the Play Store and App Store with attractive visuals and clear descriptions to boost downloads. Offer discounts or free rides to attract first-time users.Promote your launch through social media, local ads, and partnerships with nearby businesses. 

A strong marketing campaign helps create buzz and get people excited about using your service.

Things to focus on:

• Collaborate with colleges, hostels, or cafes for brand exposure

• Offer free rides or promo codes to first-time users

• Run social media campaigns showcasing your app and scooters

• Place posters or QR stickers in high-footfall areas

A soft launch or beta test in a limited area helps you fix bugs, gather feedback, and build hype for a full-scale launch.

By following this step-by-step guide, you can confidently launch your scooter-sharing business and grow it into a reliable, scalable venture. 

Whether you're wondering how to start an eScooter rental app business or you're already in the planning phase, this process will give you the structure you need to succeed.

What Makes an eScooter App Stand Out? Key Features Inside

If you truly want to stand out and grow your eScooter app business, you need an app that’s user-friendly, packed with value, and built for smooth rides both for users and your operations.

Here are the must-have features of eScooter apps that can make your platform shine and help you successfully start an eScooter rental app business:

• User Registration & Profile Management: Let users quickly sign up using mobile numbers, emails, or social logins. The easier the process, the faster they hop on your scooters.
• Real-Time Scooter Map: Users should be able to locate nearby available scooters on a live map. This feature improves user convenience and increases ride bookings.
• QR Code Scanner for Unlocking: A quick scan-and-go method is essential. It saves time, adds to the cool factor, and ensures a seamless start to every ride.
• Ride Tracking & Navigation: Let users track distance, route, and estimated time. It’s helpful, especially in unfamiliar areas, and adds transparency to their ride experience.
• In-App Payments & Wallet Integration: Enable smooth payments through cards, UPI, wallets, or even promo codes. A hassle-free checkout experience means happy customers and fewer drop-offs.
• Smart Lock System: The app should integrate with IoT-enabled locks, allowing riders to lock/unlock scooters via their phones securely.
• Booking History & Receipts: A detailed record of past rides and payment history gives users control and builds trust in your service.
• Customer Support Chat: No one likes to be stuck with issues mid-ride. In-app support ensures users can reach out instantly for help.
• Push Notifications: Keep your users informed about ride status, offers, maintenance alerts, or new city launches through smart notifications.
• Admin Dashboard for Fleet Monitoring: For those managing the scooter sharing rental business, this is crucial. It gives real-time updates on scooter usage, health, and user behavior by helping you optimize your fleet.

These features are essential if you’re serious about your scooter sharing business and planning to launch your scooter sharing business with long-term goals in mind.

Top eScooter Apps in the Global Market

The eScooter market is booming, and several global players have already made a strong impact. Let’s take a look at five popular apps that are leading the charge and why they’re winning in this space:

1. Bird

Bird is one of the best eScooter apps that comes to mind when we think of eScooter apps. It operates in multiple countries and focuses on reducing car usage in urban areas.

• Offers seamless ride experience with easy onboarding

• Strong brand presence and sustainable fleet

2. Lime

If you are thinking about how to start an eScooter rental app business, you can take inspiration from Lime app. It is a pioneer in the micro-mobility space, offering electric scooters and bikes across various continents.

• User-friendly app with real-time tracking and parking zones

• Partnered with cities for safer and more regulated operations

3. Spin

Backed by Ford, Spin has become a reliable eScooter service in the US and parts of Europe with a focus on smart cities.

• Smart safety features and community-first approach

• Strong collaborations with universities and city councils

4. Voi

Voi, based in Sweden, has rapidly expanded across Europe with its clean design and eco-friendly message.

• Focuses on carbon-neutral rides and safety education

• Offers subscription models and affordable pricing

5. TIER

TIER is a top competitor in Europe with a sustainability-driven mission, using replaceable batteries for efficiency.

• Advanced scooter technology and user rewards

• Strong fleet management and operational efficiency

These apps are proof that with the right strategy, smart features, and customer-first mindset, your eScooter rental app business can ride the wave of global success too.

How Much Does It Cost to Start an eScooter App Business?

The cost to create an app depends on features, platform (iOS/Android), design complexity, and development team location. On average, creating an eScooter basic app with essential features can range from $20,000 to $60,000+. 

If you’re aiming for an advanced version with real-time GPS tracking, payment gateway, and admin panels, the cost may go higher.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

The final cost can vary depending on your app’s scope and the team you choose. It’s always a good idea to consult with the best mobile app development company for accurate estimates.

How to Make Money from the eScooter Rental App Business ?

Once your app is live, it's crucial to have a solid app monetization strategy in place. Here are five well-liked ways to make your eScooter app profitable:

1. Pay-Per-Ride Charges

This is the most widely used model where users pay a base fee to unlock the scooter and an extra charge per minute. It's easy, transparent, and easy to scale depending on city demand.

2. Monthly or Weekly Subscriptions

Provide regular users subscription plans for unlimited or discounted rides. This fosters customer loyalty and provides a constant revenue stream even in low seasons.

3. In-App Advertisements

Collaborate with nearby businesses or companies to display targeted ads within your app. Because users open the app regularly, this can be a good passive income source.

4. Charging Station Partnerships

Partner with malls, cafes, or other public areas to position your scooter charging points. As a payoff, they pay for it or give a percentage of revenue, developing a win-win model.

5. Data Monetization & Analytics

Gather anonymized data on ride trends, peak hours, or location demand with users' permission. This can be useful for city planners, mobility companies, or advertisers.

These monetization strategies not only return your investment but also establish a solid, continuous eScooter app business model. Select the options best suited for your purpose and target audience.

How JPLoft can Help You Start your eScooter Rental App Business?

Looking for a reliable partner to kickstart your eScooter rental app business? 

JPLoft is a leading eScooter app development company with years of experience in building high-performing, feature-rich mobility solutions. Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to scale, our expert team ensures end-to-end support from idea validation to app launch and beyond. 

We understand what it takes to stand out in the competitive scooter sharing market. With cutting-edge technology, user-friendly designs, and tailored strategies, we help you build an app that users love. 

Ready to bring your vision to life? Let us turn your eScooter business dream into reality.

Final Wrap-Up

Establishing an eScooter rental app business is not just a fad, it's a wise step toward a greener and more lucrative tomorrow. Right from mapping the market to getting a feature-laden app launched, each step counts. 

As the world needs more convenient and eco-friendly means of mobility, it is the best time to catch the wave of innovation. If you've been searching for how to begin an eScooter rental app company, this guide provides you with a full blueprint. 

So, think carefully, collaborate with the perfect tech team, and start your scooter sharing business confidently. The journey to success begins here.