Micromobility in 2030: A smarter, greener, and more integrated urban future

Source: Zag Daily

A recent analysis from Urban Sharing, led by Chief Revenue Officer Tom Nutley, offers a compelling vision of the global shared micromobility landscape in 2030.

As the sector rapidly evolves, Urban Sharing’s analysis highlights several key shifts that are expected to redefine how cities, companies, and riders interact with bikes, scooters, and urban transportation infrastructure.

Cities to take control of infrastructure

By 2030, cities are anticipated to exercise greater control over micromobility infrastructure. Unlike the current scenario, where multiple operators flood urban areas with vehicles, each with its own app, pricing, and parking rules, future cities will manage docking stations, charging hubs, and designated parking. This approach, already seen in electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, looks at reducing street clutter, improving integration with public transport, and fairer competition among operators.

Specialisation within the industry

The micromobility sector, currently marked by companies attempting to manage everything from hardware manufacturing to app development and operations, is predicted to embrace specialisation. By 2030, Urban Sharing believes that three primary types of companies are expected to emerge: hardware specialists producing vehicles and batteries, software experts creating platforms and ancillary systems, and operational firms managing fleets and maintenance. This model, drawn from established logistics practices, is expected to enhance service quality, lower costs, and reduce business failures.

Industry consolidation and standardisation

A wave of mergers and acquisitions is forecast to reshape the micromobility landscape. Large firms such as Bird and Lime have already begun consolidating smaller competitors, with similar trends expected to continue. By 2030, standardised hardware, universal battery-swapping systems, and public tenders for operating contracts – similar to bus services – is predicted to become the norm. This consolidation is expected to deliver more reliable services, competitive pricing, and higher-quality vehicles.

Sustainability as a core investment driver

Sustainability will be central to securing funding in the micromobility sector by 2030. With cities and companies striving to meet net-zero targets, initiatives such as the European Union’s Social Climate Fund (SCF) are anticipated to play a pivotal role in financing sustainable transport. Additional financial incentives, including corporate sponsorships and government grants, will favour environmentally friendly mobility solutions, making sustainability an essential component of future business models.

Seamless integration with public transport

By 2030, micromobility is expected to be fully integrated into public transport networks. This vision includes micromobility hubs at train and bus stations, unified apps that cover all transport modes, subscription models for seamless access, and dedicated parking infrastructure. Cities like Paris and Barcelona are already moving toward this integrated system, and the trend is projected to become commonplace across major urban centers.

A vision for 2030

Urban Sharing’s forecast for 2030 paints a picture of a micromobility sector that is less chaotic, more connected, and effective in addressing urban transport challenges. The team states that achieving this vision will require cities to manage infrastructure responsibly, companies to specialise and collaborate, investors to prioritise sustainable solutions, and public transport and micromobility systems to work in tandem rather than in competition, to deliver cleaner, less congested, and more accessible cities for everyone.