Lime

About

Lime is a global leader in shared electric micro-mobility, operating dockless e-scooters and e-bikes in over 200 cities worldwide to provide affordable, sustainable first-mile and last-mile transportation solutions. Founded in 2017 in San Francisco with over $1 billion in funding and 500+ employees, Lime pioneered the dockless e-scooter industry and has facilitated over 400 million rides globally. The company's electric scooters and bikes are strategically deployed throughout urban areas, accessible through a mobile app that shows nearby vehicles, unlocks them via QR code, and handles per-minute billing. Lime's vehicles feature GPS tracking, cellular connectivity, and IoT sensors that enable operational management, theft prevention, and data collection on usage patterns. The platform uses dynamic pricing and incentive systems to manage vehicle distribution, encouraging users to ride to areas with vehicle shortages or park in preferred locations. Lime's operational excellence includes sophisticated algorithms for fleet rebalancing, charging logistics, and maintenance scheduling that keep vehicles available and functional. The company has shifted toward larger, more durable Gen 4 scooters designed for longevity and improved unit economics. Lime emphasizes sustainability, positioning micro-mobility as environmentally friendly alternatives to car trips that reduce emissions, congestion, and parking demand in cities. The platform partners with municipal governments and transit agencies to integrate into broader transportation networks, often operating under permits and regulatory frameworks. Lime's corporate programs enable businesses to subsidize employee commutes, while accessibility features make micro-mobility available to diverse populations. Despite challenges including vandalism, regulatory restrictions, and path to profitability, Lime has established itself as essential urban transportation infrastructure in cities embracing sustainable, car-free mobility options for short trips.