Scooter sharing platform Bird has launched a new electric scooter that claims to be "more durable, powerful and longer-lasting" than previous models, and can be bought as well as hired.

The Bird One scooter has a steel-reinforced aluminium frame, a fixed neck and tubeless wheels to protect against rain, dust and bad weather and to provide a "smoother, more comfortable ride".

Unlike previous Bird scooters it can be purchased, or rented on a monthly basis on Bird's global shared network.

Following on from its previous model the Bird Zero, which was released last year, the newest addition is available in three colours: jet black, dove white and electric rose.

The scooter can cover up to 30 miles on a single charge, which is double previous models at a top speed of 19 miles per hour.

It also has an improved and more responsive brake system, no exposed cables, better lighting and stability on bumpy roads.

"Nearly two years ago, we launched our sharing business with retail, consumer e-scooters that lasted about three months in the sharing environment," said Travis VanderZanden, founder of Bird.

"In 2018, we introduced the industry's first scooter designed and engineered specifically for the sharing market, Bird Zero."

The Bird Zero scooters have a life-span of around 10 months, according to VanderZanden. Consumers are likely to expect the life-span of a scooter that they own to be considerably longer.

The company describes the Bird One design as "the industry's most advanced and safe e-scooter on the road today for ownership and sharing".

Each Bird One is connected to a GPS tracker to protect it against theft, while a digital lock enables users to lock and unlock the scooter via the Bird smartphone app.

There is also a one-year warranty on the scooter and regular Bird service centres across North America and Europe for quick repairs.

Many brands are capitalising on the growing demand for commuter scooters in cities and metropolitan areas.

Earlier this year, Layer collaborated with Chinese automotive company Nio to design an electric scooter that uses artificial intelligence and machine-learning technology to autonomously take you on your chosen routes.

Italian motorcycle manufacturer Piaggio has also electrified its classic Vespa scooter to provide an environmentally-friendly mode of inner-city transport.