They occupy half the space of a small car, feature simple controls (one pedal to stop, another to go), and include cargo bays for groceries or personal items
In a pioneering move for Hammersmith & Fulham, a fleet of striking yellow rental buggies is being trialed, offering an innovative and eco-friendly way to commute, run errands, or drop the kids at school. The Yo-Go buggies, developed by local inventor Sam Bailey, are gaining traction and could soon be a staple across London’s streets.
These compact, two-seat electric vehicles have already attracted international interest. A German television crew recently filmed Sam’s invention in action around Parsons Green, assessing its suitability for cities like Berlin. Other European broadcasters have followed suit. “We’re introducing the Germans and the Dutch to sustainable transport!” Sam quipped.
A Fun, Practical, and Green Option
Beyond their environmental benefits, Yo-Go buggies are highly practical and enjoyable to drive. They occupy half the space of a small car, feature simple controls (one pedal to stop, another to go), and include cargo bays for groceries or personal items.
One user even managed to transport a Christmas tree in the vehicle. “Apologies for the pine needles,” joked Sam as he cleared the luggage compartment.
At just 20p per minute to rent, Yo-Go buggies provide an affordable alternative to car ownership. Designed for seamless urban mobility, the vehicles charge at lampposts, supplemented by a rooftop solar panel. Their top speed matches Fulham’s 20mph limit, ensuring both safety and efficiency.
From Concept to Reality
Sam, a 50-year-old engineer with a knack for practical solutions, first envisioned Yo-Go as a “thought experiment.” His previous inventions include Pippa, a cooker monitor adopted by H&F Council to assist vulnerable residents, and Leakbot, a device that detects water pipe leaks.
Yo-Go’s concept arose from a simple observation: most car trips in London cover less than three miles. “It makes sense to use a smaller vehicle with a smaller battery. There’s still enough room for a weekly family shop,” he explained.
Fulham was the ideal location for the trial, boasting an extensive network of lamppost charging stations, a borough-wide 20mph speed limit, and strong council support. Authorities have permitted Yo-Go buggies to use parking bays free of charge, enhancing the scheme’s appeal.
A Borough Embracing Innovation
H&F Council leader Stephen Cowan has praised the initiative, emphasizing the borough’s commitment to sustainable transport. “Hammersmith & Fulham has the UK’s highest concentration of electric car charging points, so it makes sense to trial Yo-Gos here. These vehicles are a valuable addition to our transport options. We aim to make this kind of innovation accessible to all,” he said.
Using a Yo-Go is simple. After registration, users scan a QR code to unlock the vehicle. Despite its left-hand-drive design—due to manufacturing in China—the intuitive controls make for a hassle-free experience. A basic dashboard displays speed and charge levels, while the buggy’s compact structure ensures easy maneuverability and parking.
Despite its small size, the Yo-Go provides an exciting ride. The open-air design creates an exhilarating sense of speed, even while adhering to Fulham’s 20mph limit. An innovative braking system slows the vehicle automatically when the accelerator is released, reducing reliance on the brake pedal.
Expanding Across London
Currently, Yo-Go buggies are available at several key locations, including Parsons Green, Peterborough Road, Fulham Reach, and near Fulham FC’s Craven Cottage stadium. Plans are in place to expand the fleet from 10 to 50 vehicles. While users currently return buggies to their original location, a more flexible drop-off system is in the works.
For now, insurance restrictions limit access to drivers aged 25 to 70 who have held a UK or EU license for at least two years. Each buggy has a range of about 30 miles per charge, with the solar panel extending this distance on sunny days.
More Than Just Personal Transport
Beyond personal use, Yo-Go buggies have proven valuable for various professions. Builders use them for quick supply runs, while home carers find them ideal for visiting patients efficiently. Sam believes they could also serve as a practical solution for delivery drivers, including those working for major companies like Amazon.
For the council, the scheme aligns with efforts to reduce car dependence. With robust public transport options, only 42% of households in the borough own a car. Sam sees Yo-Go as an ideal alternative for essential trips like school runs, grocery shopping, or short commutes.
With a rental cost far lower than purchasing an electric vehicle, Yo-Go buggies are quickly becoming the most economical and convenient transport option in London. Their bright yellow color ensures they stand out, and fellow drivers often greet each other with a wave. As adoption grows, the future of urban mobility in London looks set to become more electric—and much more fun.
