Nearly 50 electric scooters belonging to Bird Canada have been reported stolen in Windsor, Ontario, in recent weeks, as stated by the micromobility company’s general manager, Patrick Graham. The thefts primarily target the lithium-ion batteries within the scooters, often ending up in the black market. Graham expressed gratitude towards the local police for their cooperation in addressing the issue.
While Bird currently operates around 400 scooters in Windsor, the stolen units have been a significant setback. However, Graham mentioned that the thefts have not severely impacted the company’s ability to serve the city, as they have relocated scooters from other locations to maintain the local fleet.
Following a temporary pause due to the conclusion of its pilot contract, Bird reintroduced its scooters and e-bikes to Windsor earlier this summer. The company’s services allow users to rent bikes and scooters through a mobile app and return them to designated parking spots across the city.
Despite operating in over 20 Canadian cities, Graham noted that theft incidents have been more prevalent in Windsor compared to other locations. While thefts have sporadically occurred over the company’s five-year presence in the city, the current wave represents a notable increase. Graham attributed the thefts to organized crime groups capable of swiftly dismantling the scooters and selling their components illicitly.
Windsor police recently sought public assistance after seven Bird scooters were stolen in early August, with some being recovered stripped of parts, including batteries. Graham remains optimistic, citing past instances where authorities successfully apprehended the culprits, emphasizing the wealth of information within the vehicles that aids in tracking them down.
CBC contacted local businesses specializing in mobility devices containing lithium-ion batteries, but none reported thefts similar to Bird’s scooters. Jessica Senay, the general manager at Comfort Mobility and Home Health Care, emphasized the importance of securing valuable products, recommending insurance coverage to safeguard against theft.