(Yicai Global) May 11 -- Didi Chuxing plans to increase its input into bicycle production, with its focus set on first- and second-tier cities. It has ordered 2 million bikes from two major producers, Tianjin Fujita Bicycle Co. (1.5 million) and Shenzhen Xidesheng Bicycle Co., the online news outlet run by 36 krypton media reported.

Didi will have added over 3 million shared bikes this year, with those that have already gone into service and those now being ordered, the factories estimate. Didi has not commented on this prediction, however.

Didi and bankrupt bike-sharer Bluegogo, operated by Tianjin Luding Technology Co., formed a partnership in January that allows the latter's users to convert deposits in Bluegogo app accounts, 'privilege cards' and account balances into Didi bike and travel vouchers of equivalent value, while Bluegogo retains its brand, deposits and arrearages as its internal businesses.

Didi has also unveiled its own bike-sharing brand, Qingju Danche. The move aims to upgrade the firm's short-distance mobility strategy, providing users with more 'last-three-kilometer'/ 'last mile' service options and an improved travel experience, noted Fu Qiang, Didi's senior vice president, adding that it will also help develop Didi's one-stop mobility platform.

Didi has thus far ushered in bike-sharing services in six major Chinese cities.

Editor: Ben Armour