Digital locks for Niederrheinrad: Future of the bike rental begins!

Digital locks for Niederrheinrad: Future of the bike rental begins!

An exciting update for all wheel lovers on the Lower Rhine! The popular Lower Rhine wheels, which have been an integral part of the region for 15 years, are experiencing a digital revolution. Around 300 bicycles at 30 rental stations will be equipped with modern locks in the coming months, which can be conveniently unlocked via the app. This innovative project is made by the Bundestag MP Udo Schiefner and Dr. Martin Plum supports and promises to raise the rental system to a new level.

"The digitization of the Niederrheinrad rental system is a big step forward," explains Martina Baumgärtner, managing director of Niederrhein Tourismus GmbH. The new digital locks enable users to simply unlock the bikes via their smartphone. This not only means a simple reservation and payment, but also a significant relief for the rental stations, including hotels and tourist information. "It gets even more flexible for users to shape their free time," added Baumgärtner.

financing and future prospects

The total investment for this forward -looking project amounts to around 127,800 euros, with around 83,000 euros being provided by the Federal Ministry of Digital and Transport as part of the "Digitization of Local Transport Systems" funding program. "The project can only be realized through these funds," emphasizes Baumgärtner. The members of the Bundestag Plum and Schiefner agree: "The project promotes sustainable tourism and climate -neutral mobility - it is clearly worth supporting!"

The conversion of the bikes and the installation of the new locks should begin at the beginning of the year. Already in spring, on time for the start of the Lower Rhine Rad season, the new digital functions could be put into operation. In addition, the acquisition and construction of new rental stations are part of the project, which will run by the end of February 2026. "We are also aiming for a system expansion to public space," said Baumgärtner. Mobile stations for everyday mobility are conceivable for the future - a real profit for the region!