Lyft Explores Launching Scooter Service in San Francisco

Lyft plans to seek permits to run an electric scooter service in San Francisco, The Information has learned. It is the clearest sign yet that the No. 2 ride-hailing firm plans to compete against its bigger rival Uber and a host of startups in the fast-growing market of electric scooters and bikes.

A local consulting firm representing Lyft approached San Francisco transportation officials in recent weeks about applying for permits, according to emails obtained under public records requests. Lyft has been developing prototypes of potential scooter designs, a person familiar with the matter said, although the effort is in its early stages. A Lyft spokesman declined to comment.