Scooters returned to Minnesota State Mankato last week and, according to David Cowan, director of facilities services, with a new model, new racks, and expanded reach.

The University continues its association with Bird Rides, Inc., after the electric scooters were introduced to campus last fall. Users download the Bird app and use it to rent the scooters. Through the app, the fee is $1 to start up and 39 cents per minute afterward.

Cowan said the spring return of scooters to campus includes a scooter upgrade to the Bird 3 model. The silver scooter offers an extended-life battery, a beginner mode for gentler acceleration, a brighter LED headlight, smoother riding tires, and a frame that’s a longer, more durable frame.

In addition, the new scooter specs list updated software that enforces strict adherence to speed limits as well as improved sidewalk detection. The software can also track every scooter’s location even if it is taken outside the typical area of operation.

Earlier this week, Cowan said the University was informed that it is expanding the scooters’ range with a GEO-fencing zone that incorporates more apartment complexes nearby to campus.

The spring arrival brings new Bird Nests, Cowan said. These improved return racks are currently located in limited sites with 50 sets of racks planned across campus.

Scooters proved to be a handy form of campus travel last fall with more than 2,500 rides recorded within the first month with over 2,300 miles traveled by nearly 1,000 riders.