In a bold statement that could reshape the European micromobility landscape, Frederik Hjelm, CEO of shared micromobility startup Voi, has expressed interest in acquiring the scooter and bike operations of Bolt, the well-known European mobility super-app primarily recognized for its ride-hailing services. This potential acquisition signals Voi’s ambition to strengthen its foothold in the competitive urban mobility sector.
Voi, a Swedish-based company, has been a key player in the shared micromobility market, focusing on sustainable urban transport solutions. Under Hjelm’s leadership, the company recently reported its first profitable year in 2024, positioning it as a strong contender for further expansion. Acquiring Bolt’s micromobility business could provide Voi with an expanded user base and operational scale across multiple European cities.
Bolt, headquartered in Estonia, has built a reputation as a mobility super-app, offering a range of services from ride-hailing to scooter rentals. While its micromobility division is a smaller segment of its overall business, it represents a significant presence in several urban markets. A sale to Voi could allow Bolt to refocus on its core ride-hailing and other high-growth areas.
The potential deal, though not yet confirmed, highlights the ongoing consolidation trend in the micromobility industry as companies seek to achieve profitability amid regulatory challenges and intense competition. Hjelm’s openness to the acquisition suggests a strategic vision to dominate the market by integrating complementary operations.
Industry analysts speculate that such a merger could accelerate innovation in safety features and user experience, areas where Voi has already invested heavily. It could also lead to more efficient fleet management and reduced operational costs, benefiting both companies’ customers in the long run.
As discussions remain in the exploratory phase, stakeholders in the micromobility sector are keenly watching for updates. If successful, this acquisition could mark a pivotal moment for Voi, cementing its position as a leader in sustainable urban transport across Europe.
Alfred Lee
