Transport for London (TfL) has announced a new long-term contract with operator Serco, ensuring the running of the Santander Cycles hire scheme until at least 2031.
The agreement paves the way for significant customer-focused upgrades to the bike-sharing system.
A central improvement will be the introduction of in-dock charging technology for the scheme’s e-bikes, scheduled for summer 2026. This innovation aims to ensure e-bikes are consistently charged and ready for hire, addressing a common reliability issue. Terminals across the network will also be modernised.
Users will also be able to benefit from a more streamlined hiring process through a new, improved mobile app and a shift to a QR code system for releasing bikes from docks. These changes are designed to make the scheme more accessible and user-friendly.
The announcement follows a period of strong performance for the cycle hire scheme. In October 2025, monthly member hires hit a record high of over 728,000. The fleet, which now includes 2,000 e-bikes, surpassed 109 million total hires since 2015.
TfL stated that modernising the docked Santander Cycles scheme, alongside its work to regulate the wider dockless e-bike market, supports the Mayor’s goal of making sustainable travel a more viable and appealing option for all Londoners.
Will Norman, London’s Walking and Cycling Commissioner, said: ‘London’s boom in cycling shows no sign of slowing down, so it’s great to see further investment in improvements to the Santander Cycles scheme including the in-dock charging for e-bikes and a new, easier-to-use app.
‘Following a record number of Santander Cycles member hires in October 2025 and soaring numbers of bike trips across the capital, the Mayor and I will keep investing in sustainable and accessible transport options as we continue to create a greener, fairer, better London for everyone.’
David Eddington, Head of Cycle Hire at TfL, said: ‘Our cycle hire scheme has gone from strength to strength thanks to our successful operating partnership with Serco. We look forward to continuing working with Serco to see even more innovative and creative technologies introduced ensuring that Santander Cycles can continue to be the best choice for Londoners.’
Photo: Chris Kursikowski / Unsplash
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