Mobike Thailand Launches in Chiang Mai

(Source: Mobike)

In 2017, Mobike rode into Bangkok and began operations in Thailand at Kasetsart University. At the start of 2018, Mobike is entering its first overseas city of the year - Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand’s largest city. Chiang Mai is an incredibly popular tourist destination, known for its long history and rich cultural heritage.

Mark Lin, Head of International Operations of Mobike, said:

“We are pleased that historic Chiang Mai has become our second city in Thailand. As the city continues to enrich its economic and cultural prominence and grow in popularity, there is an increasing demand for eco-friendly transportation options. Mobike’s smart bikeshare service addresses urban transportation needs, through innovative applications of IoT technology and close partnerships with local communities. Whether you’re a visitor to the city or a resident, cycling is a great way to explore the city’s historical and cultural sites, or move about the town on your daily routine.”

Mobike has worked in close collaboration with a wide variety of local stakeholders to ensure the service meets the city’s specific needs. Mobike enters Chiang Mai with the support of the City Municipality Council, national government agencies such as the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), as well as local businesses, universities, and other community groups.

Mobike's launch is directly in line with the city government's "Non-Motorised Transport" (NMT) initiative, which focuses on promoting ecotourism through the development of a sustainable urban transport system. Given the initiative's goal of cutting vehicular greenhouse gas emissions by reducing traffic congestion, Mobike's track record of providing an alternative to inefficient modes of transport will play a crucial role in contributing to Chiang Mai's development.

Mobike celebrated the launch with a ride around the famous Three Kings monument and invited residents to meet the local team and company representatives. Many partners also joined the festivities including, the Deputy Mayor of Chiang Mai, the Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, members of the Chiang Mai Cycling Club and rectors from Chiang Mai University and Maejo University Rajamongkhol Lanna.

In his congratulatory speech, Puthhipong Sirimart, Chiang Mai Deputy Mayor, lauded Mobike’s launch saying:

“In 2017, Chiang Mai was selected to become a model smart city as part of the central government’s plan. We are well on our way to becoming a more sustainable, connected and efficient city as a Tourism and Health Hub, and we are excited to welcome Mobike to Chiang Mai as a partner that shares our vision for the future. Smart bikesharing will help connect our residents and visitors with the vibrant culture of our businesses and communities, and we welcome Mobike’s collaborative approach to rolling out their system in Chiang Mai.”

From Left to Right: Chiangmai's first Mobiker, the Police Deputy Commander, Deputy Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, AIS Vice President, Chiang Mai Deputy Mayor, Mobike Head of International Operations, Chairman of Chiangmai City Development, President of Chiang Mai Tourism Association

Mobike launched its services in Thailand in November last year in Bangkok, where it had already entered into strategic partnerships with Central Pattana Group and Advanced Info Service (AIS), Thailand’s leading mobile network.

Mr. Pornrat Janejarassakul, AIS Vice President Regional Operation (North), attending the launch event said:

“We at AIS are proud to be supporting the Internet sharing economy, uplifting the quality of living of the Thai residents. Our successful cooperation with Mobike is a clear testament that the NB-IoT technology is of practical use in Thailand, solving the problem of traveling for urbanites and reducing carbon dioxide as well as positively contributing to Chiang Mai’s economy.”

Mobike is thrilled to have another opportunity to promote the importance of eco-tourism and sustainable public transportation through its launch in Chiang Mai and we look forward to bringing the #MobikeMovement to more cities across Thailand!