Brussels Swaps E-Scooters for Bikes in 2027

When a city of over 1 million people decides to rethink how residents get around, it's not about going backward. It's about going safer.

Brussels announced it will remove all shared e-scooters from its streets in January 2027, replacing them with an expanded network of shared bikes and e-bikes. The decision comes after injuries from e-scooter accidents jumped 26% in just one year, with 666 people hurt in 2025 alone.

The Belgian capital isn't abandoning eco-friendly transportation. Instead, it's choosing options that work better for everyone sharing the sidewalks and streets.

E-scooter crashes tend to cause more severe head and facial injuries than bike accidents, according to safety experts. Improperly parked scooters have also created obstacles for elderly residents and people with mobility challenges, blocking sidewalks and public pathways.

The two remaining e-scooter operators, Bolt and Dott, will see their licenses expire at the end of 2026. Brussels joins major European cities like Paris, Madrid, and Prague in making the switch away from shared scooters.

The Bright Side

This isn't a loss for sustainable urban transport. It's an upgrade.

Brussels is investing in what works: traditional bikes and electric bikes that offer the same green benefits without the safety trade-offs. Bike sharing has proven more stable, causes fewer accidents, and doesn't create the same parking chaos that frustrated residents for years.

The city's commitment to car-free mobility remains strong. They're simply choosing the option that keeps more people safe while still reducing traffic and emissions.

Other cities watching Brussels may find encouragement in this practical approach. You don't have to stick with every trendy solution. Sometimes the best innovation is recognizing what actually serves your community and doubling down on that instead.

Brussels proves that sustainable cities can evolve their strategies without losing sight of their goals. Cleaner air and fewer cars matter, but so does getting home safely.