E-Scooter Giant Voi Threatens UK Exit Over 'Totally Restrictive' Regulations

Labour's cautious approach to e-scooter trials sparks corporate backlash and concerns over UK's innovation climate

Apr. 12, 2026 at 7:43am

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An extreme close-up of a shattered e-scooter sensor lens reflecting a faint red light, conceptually illustrating the tensions over the regulation of new mobility technologies.As tensions over autonomous vehicles escalate, a recent wave of targeted street vandalism exposes pent-up frustration with driverless technology.Columbus Today

Voi, one of the largest e-scooter operators in Europe, has threatened to exit the UK market, citing the country's 'totally restrictive' regulatory environment. The company's senior executive, Christina Moe Gjerde, argues that the government's prolonged e-scooter trials, set to last until 2028, are discouraging investment and stifling progress. This standoff highlights the contrast between the UK's hesitant approach and the more embracing policies seen across the rest of Europe.

Why it matters

The e-scooter saga in the UK is a microcosm of a broader issue - the tension between caution and innovation. Voi's threat to leave the market raises concerns that the UK's regulatory environment may be pushing businesses away and missing opportunities to lead in sustainable urban mobility.

The details

Voi has been critical of the UK's e-scooter trial system, which began in 2023 and is set to continue until 2028. Gjerde argues that this prolonged uncertainty discourages investment, as companies cannot plan for the long term. She also claims that UK riders behave worse than those in other countries, suggesting that overly strict rules remove personal responsibility and make riders 'lazy'.

  • The e-scooter trials in the UK began in 2023.
  • The trials are set to continue until 2028.

The players

Voi

One of the largest e-scooter firms in Europe, which has threatened to exit the UK market due to the country's restrictive regulations.

Christina Moe Gjerde

A senior executive at Voi who has criticized the UK's 'totally restrictive' e-scooter trial system.

Department for Transport

The UK government agency responsible for the e-scooter trials, which has defended the cautious approach.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.