Smoove SAS

Smoove SAS, founded in 2008 by Laurent Mercat, is a French company specializing in the design, manufacture, and maintenance of bike-sharing systems. In 2021, Smoove merged with Zoov, a tech startup also in the e-bike space, and the combined entity was rebranded as 'Fifteen' in March 2022. The new name reflects the urban planning concept of the '15-minute city,' where essential services are accessible within a short bike ride or walk.

The company provides comprehensive solutions for cities and private operators, including traditional pedal bikes, electric bikes (e-bikes), docking stations, and management software. Their systems are designed for durability and ease of use, featuring innovations like frame-integrated locks, puncture-proof tires, and shaft drive transmissions. The docking stations are lightweight, require minimal civil engineering, and can recharge e-bikes. A key feature is the 'overflow' capability, allowing bikes to be secured even when stations are full. Smoove's business model targets B2G (business-to-government) and B2B (business-to-business) clients, providing the infrastructure and operational support for public and private bike-share schemes. They have deployed over 50,000 bikes in more than 30 cities worldwide, including major contracts in Paris, Helsinki, Vancouver, and Moscow.

Following the merger with Zoov, founded in 2017 by Eric Carreel, Amira Haberah, and Arnaud Le Rodallec, the new entity, Fifteen, aims to create 'Augmented Bicycle Networks'. This concept integrates various services like short-term rental, long-term leasing, and station-based or free-floating models into a single, cohesive network connected with public transport. The IoT technology embedded in the bikes allows for flexible usage and provides valuable mobility data to help cities optimize traffic flow and infrastructure. After the merger, Smoove's CEO, Benoît Yameundjeu, took the lead of the new company. In March 2019, Laurent Mercat stepped down as president, and the company became fully owned by Via-ID, a branch of the Mobivia group.

Keywords: bike-sharing systems, urban mobility, e-bikes, smart bikes, docking stations, sustainable transport, micromobility, public transportation solutions, shared mobility, connected bikes, fleet management software, urban planning, B2G mobility, Fifteen, Zoov, bicycle network, long-term bike rental, mobility data, IoT, sustainable mobility