Vinsen embraces “connected journeys”

A recent health scare has temporarily stopped David Vinsen from driving, but that isn’t preventing him from getting around the city.

The ITS New Zealand chairman says it’s three weeks before he’s allowed to get back behind the wheel, so has had to find creative ways of getting to the office and meetings.

“In my last article for AutoTalk magazine, I wrote about e-scooters. It was part of the first and last mile solution,” says Vinsen, who is also Imported Motor Vehicle Industry Association (VIA) chief executive and on the government’s EV working group.

“Now I can’t drive for another three weeks, I’m using connected journeys.

“The modes of transport I’ve used recently include the ferry, Ubers, Lime scooters and walking. It’s really convenient.”

Vinsen says he can’t wait until all transport options can be booked and paid for through a single app.

“I’m using mixed modes of transport, even though there’s not one payment platform yet.”

As for his health, Vinsen say he’s had to alter his lifestyle since the scare.

“I’m taking it easy. The VIA board have been extremely supportive.

“The biggest thing is it was a warning shot across the bow rather than through the engine room.”