4. Electric Transportation in Moscow: A Comprehensive Guide to E-Scooters (2025)
Moscow has embraced e-scooters as a key mode of urban transport. This section offers a detailed look at the rental landscape, practical tips, and safety advice for navigating Moscow on two wheels in 2025.
I. Major E-Scooter Rental Companies in 2025 (Examples and Features)
While the market is dynamic, we can anticipate several major players being active in Moscow in 2025, possibly including:
Whoosh: Likely to remain a major player. Known for its widespread coverage, user-friendly app, and generally modern scooter models. Features include: Geofencing: Automatic speed reductions in pedestrian areas and restrictions in areas where parking is forbidden. “No-Parking” Zones: Clearly marked no-parking zones in the app, with fines for improper parking. Battery Levels: Real-time battery level display in the app, helping users to avoid running out of charge mid-ride. Insurance: Some level of built-in accident insurance. Subscription Options: Daily and weekly subscription options for cost savings. Yandex Go (with Scooters): Yandex, a local technology giant, will likely offer integration with their other transportation services. Features might include: Integrated Payment: Seamless payment through the Yandex Go app, if the user is already familiar with other Yandex services. Route Planning: Integration with Yandex Maps for optimal route planning. Multiple Vehicle Types: Possibility to rent other types of micromobility options along with scooters, e.g. bicycles. Other Potential Players: Be prepared for the possibility of other companies, perhaps with an international background, joining or growing in the market by 2025.
E-Scooter Models (2025 Expectations):
Expect models with the following specs (subject to manufacturer differences):
Electric Motor: 350—500W brushless hub motors with high torque for hill climbing. Battery: Lithium-ion batteries offering 30—50km range on a single charge. Battery capacity should improve, so that models with even greater range could be available. Top Speed: Typically capped at 20—25 km/h by law in many areas of the city, with slower speeds enforced in pedestrian zones (geofencing). Tires: Puncture-resistant tubeless pneumatic tires, around 8—10 inches for good grip and comfort, with a move towards larger tire sizes for a more comfortable ride. Brakes: Front and rear electric brakes and possibly disc brakes for better stopping power. Display: Integrated LCD display showing speed, battery level, and ride mode. Lights: Bright front and rear LED lights for better visibility, with turn signals likely becoming more common. Weight: Expecting scooter weight to remain under 20kg for easier maneuverability and carrying, with models using lighter materials like magnesium alloy becoming more common. Connectivity: Bluetooth and GPS for app control, ride tracking, and geofencing.
II. How to Rent an E-Scooter (Step-by-Step Guide)
Download the App: Download the official app for your chosen rental provider from your device’s app store. Create an Account: Register using your phone number and email. You may need to provide a payment method (credit/debit card). Locate a Scooter: Use the app’s map to locate the nearest available scooter. Unlock the Scooter: Scan the QR code on the scooter using the app to unlock it. Start Your Ride: Put on your helmet, get on the scooter and push off to begin your ride. Ride Safely: Follow traffic rules, stay in designated lanes, and mind your speed, especially in pedestrian areas. End Your Ride: Park the scooter in a designated parking zone shown in the app. End the ride within the app to finalize the rental. Payment: Payment is automatically processed through your registered payment method.
Typical Costs & Payment Systems (2025):
Unlock Fee: 30—50 rubles (subject to change and promotions). Per-Minute Fee: 3—7 rubles per minute. Could depend on the day of the week and time of the day. Subscription Options: Daily/weekly passes with rates that vary, but are often more economical for frequent users. Payment Methods: Expect major debit/credit cards, mobile payment systems (like Apple Pay or OpenAI Pay), and sometimes local payment systems.
III. Safety Rules & Regulations
Traffic Rules: Treat the e-scooter as a bicycle. Follow all applicable traffic laws, use bicycle lanes when available, and stop at red lights. Speed Limits: Pay attention to posted speed limits on your app, usually around 20—25km/h. Automatic speed reduction may be enabled by geofencing in busy areas. Sidewalk Riding: Avoid riding on sidewalks in most areas. Helmet Use: While not always legally required, wearing a helmet is highly recommended. Alcohol Consumption: Never ride an e-scooter while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Proper Parking: Park only in designated parking zones. Improper parking can result in a fine. Passenger Restrictions: Only one person is allowed per scooter.
Additional Practical Tips:
Check Scooter Condition: Before riding, check the scooter for any damage, tire pressure, and brake functionality. Battery Level: Monitor battery levels in the app, and plan your trips accordingly. Be Aware of Pedestrians: Yield to pedestrians, especially in shared pedestrian and cycling zones. Ride Defensively: Be aware of vehicles, potholes, and other road hazards. Report Issues: Use the app to report damaged scooters or safety problems.
Things to Keep in Mind:
Geofencing: Pay attention to the app notifications. Geofencing might be used to slow you down in a pedestrian zone, or stop the vehicle if you enter a forbidden area. App Stability: Like all technology, the app could have periods of instability. Make sure it’s working before you start your trip.
IV. Pre-Trip Checklist
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip, make sure you have covered all these key points: Visa: Check your visa requirements, and begin the process well in advance. Passport: Make sure that your passport is valid and up to date.
Flights: Confirm all your flight details, and check for any changes or updates. Accommodation: Check your booking, and keep a record of all your booking details. Travel Insurance: Check that your travel insurance is fully up to date, and covers all the activities you plan. Medications: Make sure you have all the prescription and non prescription medications that you require for the whole trip. Currency: Ensure you have access to local currency, and consider ordering some before your arrival. Travel Apps: Download all of the required travel apps, such as the Moscow Metro, Yandex Go, Citymapper, etc.
Copies of Documents: Keep copies of your important documents, including passport, visa, booking details, etc. Packing: Pack clothing that is appropriate for the