Pingtung now has city bikes too — “Pbike” expected to be fully completed in October

Reported by You Tzu-ju / Comprehensive report

Pingtung now has city bikes too！ The construction of Pingtung’s public bicycle rental system was officially launched on the 9th with a ceremony jointly held by Pingtung County Government and Kaohsiung Rapid Transit Corporation. The system has been named “Pbike.” Initially, 450 public bicycles will be provided, with 20 rental stations planned. Users can rent and return bikes in just 3 seconds, and the first half-hour is free, aiming to make Pingtung a low-carbon, livable city.


▲ The inauguration ceremony for Pingtung’s “PBIKE” was held. (Photo / Provided by Pingtung County Government)

Pingtung County Magistrate Tsao Chi-hung pointed out that Taiwan has well-known bicycle manufacturers and advanced public bicycle rental systems, with successful experiences that can be marketed internationally. Many European countries no longer compete over GDP figures but rather on green (eco-friendly) happiness indices. Pingtung has many parks and green spaces, giving it the potential to become a green city.

Kaohsiung Rapid Transit Corporation has secured the contract for the construction of the rental stations, as well as the operating rights for one year after completion. The system is expected to be officially completed and operational this October. The station locations will primarily be near train stations, densely populated residential areas, schools, parks, and government offices, while also connecting to key attractions around the Wan-nien River. As for pricing,whether using an EasyCard or a credit card, the first half-hour of bike rental is free. For usage beyond half an hour up to one hour with an EasyCard, the fee is NT$10 per half-hour, while with a credit card, it is NT$20 per half-hour..

Pingtung County Government has custom-designed the unique frame design for the rental stations and adopted a smart 3-second rental system independently developed by Kaohsiung Rapid Transit Corporation. Bike rental and return can be completed within 3 seconds. The design of the rental stations will be adapted to the environmental conditions of each location. In addition to one central control console, multiple sets of 1-to-4-card reading devices can be installed to allow simultaneous rental and return of several bikes, reducing waiting time for users. The bikes will be painted bright yellow, allowing these “little yellow bikes” to weave through every alley in Pingtung.

The bicycle rental system is expected to become a mode of transport for tourists visiting Pingtung City. By introducing public bicycles, air quality in Pingtung can be improved, and more people can experience the beauty of Pingtung by bike, fostering a slow-paced, leisurely urban atmosphere. The Pbike rental system, based on Pingtung County’s development blueprint, integrates bike lanes, bus connections, and tourist attractions to create a low-carbon, convenient, and happy city.