Uber is reportedly holding talks to buy electric scooter firms Bird and Lime

Uber has reportedly held talks about a multi-billion dollar acquisition of electric scooter startups Bird and Lime.

The Information originally reported Uber's interest in the buzzy scooter firms, while sources familiar with all three companies told the Financial Times that the talks are still at an early stage.

The Information said a deal for either company could help Uber alleviate scooter supply constraints after launching its Jump brand of two-wheeled vehicles in October.

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Bird and Lime are both unicorns — tech companies valued at over $1 billion — and both have expanded internationally this year.

Uber declined to comment when contacted by the FT, and Lime did not comment directly on the talks. Bird's CEO told the FT in a statement: "Bird is not for sale."

Uber has been exploring multiple acquisitions this year, acquiring e-bike company Jump Bikes in April, and reportedly attempting to acquire British food delivery firm Deliveroo.

Business Insider contacted Uber, Bird, and Lime for comment.

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