Open call for pilots identifying e-scooter risk hotspots and optimised parking locations – Apply by 21 March!

The ELABORATOR project is looking for two e-scooter related pilot projects: one to identify risk hotspots and the other to improve e-scooter parking accuracy. The deadline for tenders is 21 March, 2025 at 4:00 PM EET. See the regularly updated Q&A document below.

Budget

As part of the ELABORATOR project, Forum Virium Helsinki will be procuring two pilot projects to be carried out in Helsinki. The total budget of the procurement is up to EUR 45 000. 

The total number of pilot projects is 2. The maximum cost for pilot project 1 is EUR 25 000, VAT 0% and for pilot project 2 is EUR 20 000, VAT 0%.

What kind of solutions are we looking for?

Forum Virium Helsinki Oy is seeking two suppliers to carry out pilot projects. We are looking for solutions with high novelty value to these two themes: 

1. Testing new solutions for collecting, analyzing and visualizing accident-related information and 
2. Optimizing parking locations for shared e-scooters. 

For both pilot projects, we appreciate it if:

• At least part of the pilot project takes place in a physical space (in Helsinki).
• Solution can be showcased and tested for 3-6 months (a shorter pilot period may also be offered, if justified)
• Raw data and data analysis can be provided

Pilot 1: Testing new solutions for collecting, analyzing and visualizing accident-related information 

Improving traffic safety in the city requires knowledge of the risks associated with traffic. In addition to accident analysis, the feeling of insecurity, near misses and risk situations that are not covered by accident statistics should be taken into account. In the Helsinki Living Lab, we are responding to this by testing new technology, new ways of data collection and visualization. 

The project pays special attention to accidents involving shared-use e-scooters. The aim is to collect and analyse data on accidents regarding e-scooters and cyclists (including single accidents and other accidents) that typically remain outside official accident statistics and identify the areas where large numbers of risks (unsafe acts, near misses, accidents) are present in Helsinki. More detailed information can be used to influence the city’s traffic safety measures.

The solution we are looking for:

• can be, for example, a technology-based or platform-based solution. 
• can identify unsafe events, locations and/or risk hotspots involving e-scooter riders and cyclists
• can relate to themes such as the following:
  • AI, machine-vision
  • Novel sensor technologies

Pilot 2: Optimizing parking locations for shared e-scooters

Helsinki Living Lab wants to test a new solution for optimising dynamic space relocation of parking locations for shared mobility services (e-scooters), both virtually and physically.

Aim is to optimize parking locations for shared e-scooters by testing new technologies. More specifically, the solution sought should be related to dynamic geofencing. The project has identified that the GPS/GNSS signal is very weak in certain places, which affects the accuracy of parking. The aim is to prevent overflow from parking areas dedicated to e-scooters.

The solution we are looking for:

• relates to dynamic geofencing. 
• works in challenging locations, such as locations where GPS / GNSS signal is weak.
• offers a solution for much more precise parking (virtual and / or physical) than GNSS, +/- 20cm accuracy.
• reduces the obstruction effect of electric scooters and improves conditions for vulnerable road users.

Tender process timetable

Invitation to tenders

The invitation to tender is open to companies with a valid European business ID. The submission of a tender as a consortium (‘team’) is allowed. A Tenderer can submit a tender to one or both of the pilot projects. The winning tenders will be selected by the evaluators based on scores assigned in accordance with the evaluation criteria.

The invitation to tenders contains more detailed information. Tenders are submitted as an attachment via separate application forms.

• Pilot 1 application form
• Pilot 2 application form

Further information

Questions about the invitation to tender can be submitted during the tender period. Any questions about the invitation to tender must be submitted in writing by 14 March 2025 to noora.reittu@forumvirium.fi (subject line: ELABORATOR Helsinki: Invitation to tender). 

• Read a list of regularly updated questions and answers here.

ELABORATOR project’s aim is to promote safe, participatory and sustainable mobility in the city. The project’s Helsinki Living Lab is being implemented by Forum Virium Helsinki and VTT with close co-operation with the city. The project is funded by the European Union’s Horizon Europe research and innovation funding programme.