What is Turtle?
Turtle is an on-demand bike service with a driver, designed to reinvent urban mobility in Paris. Imagine booking your daily trips right from a mobile app, hopping on an electric-assist three-wheeled bike driven by a professional, and cruising through the city without the usual traffic jams or pollution. It’s not just a ride; it’s a new way to experience the city—faster, greener, and more enjoyable. These bikes are allowed to use cycle lanes and bus lanes, making your journey smoother and quicker than traditional taxis or VTCs. Plus, the drivers are employed and trained by Turtle, ensuring a reliable and safe ride every time.
Main Benefits of Turtle
Here’s why Turtle stands out in the urban transport scene:
- Founded in 2021: Turtle was born from the vision of three friends—Robin, Aymard, and Antoine—who noticed the rise of biking post-Covid but saw a gap in inclusive, on-demand bike services.
- 60 Bikes in Service: Starting with just 5 bikes in 2022, Turtle now boasts a fleet of 60, ready to serve Paris, especially ramping up for the Olympic Games.
- Over 250,000 km traveled: Every kilometer ridden helps reduce city congestion and carbon emissions. These German-made bikes are built to last nearly 15 years.
- AXA Insurance: Safety first! Turtle ensures drivers, passengers, and third parties are covered, with seat belts available onboard for extra security.
- 52.5 Tons of CO2 Saved: Electric-assist bikes like Turtle’s emit 95% less CO2 than thermal cars. For a 10 km trip, Turtle emits just 0.11 kg of CO2 versus 2.18 kg for a car.
- Pet-Friendly: Whether your furry friend is big or small, they’re welcome to join the ride.
How Does Turtle Work?
Getting around with Turtle is super simple. First, download the app available on iOS and Android. Then, create your account in just a few clicks. Next, enter your destination, book your driver, and see the price upfront—no surprises here. Payment is secure and can be done directly through the app or on board with cash or card. Once you’re set, enjoy the ride as your driver takes advantage of bike and bus lanes, letting you rediscover Paris in a fresh, outdoor way. It’s quick, comfortable, and a little bit fun.
Services Offered by Turtle
Turtle isn’t just about getting from point A to B. It offers a variety of services tailored to different needs:
- Parisian Transport: Skip the traffic and enjoy the city’s beauty while zipping through bike lanes.
- Visit Paris: Explore iconic monuments with multilingual audio guides included on every circuit—perfect for tourists and locals alike.
- Event Services: Need a unique touch for your event? Privatize bikes with drivers and customize them to match your brand or theme.
The Turtle Bike-Cab Features
Each Turtle bike-cab is thoughtfully designed for comfort and safety. They come with an electric assist motor that can reach speeds up to 25 km/h, making your trip both swift and smooth. Safety features include seat belts and front and rear signal lights. Weather protection means you’re shielded from the elements, and the cabin comfortably fits two passengers plus their luggage. All bikes are manufactured in Europe, ensuring quality and durability.
Environmental and Social Impact
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – Turtle promotes eco-friendly urban transport.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – Significant reduction in CO2 emissions compared to cars.
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – Encourages outdoor travel and reduces pollution-related health risks.
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – Employs trained drivers, supporting local jobs.
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – Durable bikes designed to last 15 years.
Booking and Accessibility
Booking a Turtle ride is as easy as pie. The app lets you choose your pickup and drop-off points, schedule rides in advance, and see fixed prices before you confirm. Services run Monday to Saturday, with hours from 8 AM to 9 PM on weekdays and 10 AM to 9 PM on Saturdays. Payment options are flexible—credit card via the app, or cash and card onboard. Plus, cancellations are free anytime before departure, so no stress if plans change. And yes, pets are always welcome, making Turtle a truly inclusive option for everyone.
