
Lyon and cycling have a long-standing love affair. Since 2005, the city has been offering its residents the Vélo’v service, which, after the Paris network, is the largest in France. With over 10,000,000 rentals registered by 2022, the 5,000 Vélo’v bicycles are in full operation in all 4 corners of the city. Admittedly, many of us have already had the experience of unlocking a bike with a slightly warped rear wheel that made a noise worthy of a dragster. But no matter what anyone says, the people of Lyon love their Vélo’v bikes. In 2025, to celebrate the 20th anniversary of this emblematic service, the city of Lyon has decided to renew the fleet with 2,500 brand-new bikes.
Electric bikes with Formula 1 engines
Ever dreamed of being able to whistle while you pedal? In 2025, no problem. The new bikes are equipped with an electric assistance system made of reinforced concrete. Enough to go 40 kilometers without raising your heart rate one iota. In fact, the batteries on these new bikes are 5 times more powerful than their predecessors, and have the enormous advantage of being charged in-station, without the need for user intervention.
In 2025, mobility for all Lyon residents
Another notable innovation is a simplified stop-and-go system. Gone is the headache of having to wedge a padlock between the wheel and the frame! From now on, everything has been thought out to ensure that your break at the bakery goes smoothly. These new electric bikes also feature a modern green color, handlebars with smartphone holder and USB port, so you’ll never lose your way. No more excuses for being late for appointments.
But what price these Rolls-Royces on two wheels? No more than yesterday, or even less! Short-term and long-term subscribers without an electric option will be able to use Vélo’v electric bicycles for €1 for the first 30 minutes. This was not possible before. For e-Vélo’v portable battery subscribers, the equipment will be returned directly to the Vélo’v counter. Subscribers will then be able to migrate to the new formulas without any problem. So you can do all the 10o1 things to do in Lyon with no problem at all.