The City of Ottawa is switching its shared e-scooter provider from Neuron to Lime, following the conclusion of a competitive bidding process. The change takes effect later this year, with Lime set to deploy hundreds of scooters across the city.
Contract details and timeline
According to a city spokesperson, Lime was selected after a request for proposals that evaluated operators on safety, equity, and operational capacity. The new contract runs for three years, with an option to extend. Neuron’s current permit expires in August 2026, and Lime will begin operations in September.
Ottawa launched its e-scooter pilot in 2020, initially with Bird and Lime. Neuron entered the market in 2022 after Bird withdrew. The program has expanded steadily, with over 1,200 scooters available at peak times.
Reason for the switch
City officials cited Lime’s proposal for improved geofencing technology, which automatically reduces scooter speeds in high-traffic zones, and a commitment to deploy more scooters in underserved neighbourhoods. “Lime’s plan better aligns with our vision for safe and equitable micromobility,” said the city’s transportation director.
Neuron, meanwhile, said it was “disappointed” by the decision but thanked Ottawa riders for their support. The company noted that its scooters had completed over 2 million trips in Ottawa since 2022.
Impact on riders and operations
Current Neuron users will need to switch to the Lime app once the transition occurs. Existing ride credits and passes will not transfer. Lime plans to launch a promotional fare for the first month, offering $1 unlock fees and reduced per-minute rates.
Both companies have faced criticism over sidewalk riding and improper parking. The city says the new contract includes stricter enforcement penalties, including fines for operators that fail to rebalance scooters within two hours of complaints.
Ottawa’s e-scooter program has seen steady ridership growth, with over 1.5 million trips recorded in 2025. The switch to Lime is expected to maintain that momentum while addressing safety concerns.
