Lime withdraws bikes and scooters from Brussels following court ruling
Shared mobility provider Lime has begun removing its 6,000 e-scooters and bikes from Brussels after a ruling by Belgium’s Council of State upheld the region’s decision to limit operators to Bolt, Dott and Voi. Lime’s licence expired on 2 July and a last-minute legal appeal for suspension was denied.
The move ends a prolonged legal tussle that began when Lime was excluded from a 2023 tender aimed at curbing clutter caused by scooters. The American firm contested the outcome, allowing it to continue operations temporarily, but the final ruling has now forced it out of the city.
Despite this setback, Lime remains defiant. “We believe the selection process was flawed and lacked transparency,” Benelux public affairs lead Sofie Staelraeve told Bruzz.
“We believe the selection process was flawed and lacked transparency”
Lime is awaiting a final verdict on its broader legal challenge. In the meantime, it is pursuing further legal action and claims the Brussels government could face up to 1 million euros per month in damages if Lime is eventually vindicated.
The Brussels government, however, insists the restrictions were necessary for safety and accessibility. Mobility minister Elke Van den Brandt of Groen said: “Limiting operators and introducing drop zones was crucial to ensure public space is safe and accessible for all.”
Lime will lay off 134 staff as part of the withdrawal but maintains it is ready to relaunch in Brussels should it win its case.
People ride the Lime-S moped scooter in Brussels © BELGA PHOTO ERIC LALMAND
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