Tag Archive: germany

  1. Shared mobility in Hannover after one year

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    Source: Zag Daily

    Earlier this summer, the Sustainable Urban Transitions Lab published the results of its year-long research project which looks at shared mobility and how it can facilitate more sustainable transport usage in Hannover, Germany.

    The Sustainable Urban Transitions Lab is an experiment using shared operator data from Bolt and advanced modelling and simulations from the technical university ETH Zürich to help city officials with developing their sustainable mobility strategies.

    Hannover is one of the focus cities alongside Seville, Lisbon and the capital city of Asunción in Paraguay.

    With a population of 1.1 million in the wider region (500,000 in the city), Hannover is aiming to reduce its transport-related carbon emissions by 70% and private car use by 25% while doubling bike and public transport usage by 2035 with its VEP 2035+ plan.

    Meanwhile, its Master Plan Mobility, which was implemented in 2025, has outlined strategies for improving bicycle traffic, and implementing designated parking zones for shared e-scooters and mobility hubs.

    The Lab’s findings could be used as evidence to inform both of Hannover’s sustainable transportation strategies.

    Leader of research at ETH Zürich, Eva Heinen, explains this further to Zag Daily.

    “The key lesson is that cities can use shared-mobility GPS data, telemetry, app surveys and simulations to move from broad mobility goals to specific interventions: where to improve cycling infrastructure, where parking regulation works, where safety issues may emerge and where mobility hubs can have the greatest accessibility benefit.

    “That approach is highly relevant for many German and European cities that have similar Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans or Master Mobility Plans.”

    The Lab’s mission for Hannover research was to explore the following: e-scooter usage across demographics, micromobility safety, first and last-mile connections for public transportation, parking regulations, and identifying where mobility hubs need to be prioritised.

    Sustainable Urban Transition Lab one-year results in Hannover

    The following was published in relation to general transport usage:

    • If all citizens in Hannover could access micromobility, car trips could be reduced by approximately 14%, and public transport use could rise by up to 20%.
    • Hannover, historically recognised as a car-centric city, sees 31% of trips made by car, 27% by foot, 23% by bike and 19% by public transportation.

    For e-scooter usage, 2.23 million e-scooter trips between May 2024 and December 2025 were analysed:

    • The average e-scooter trip was 1.5 kilometres and lasted less than seven minutes.
    • 96% of total trips were by local residents
    • Young adults aged 18-30 accounted for 70% of riders, with men accounting for 71% of ridership
    • Commuting was the trip purpose for most riders
    • Higher commuting was recorded in the afternoon than in the morning

    There appeared to be a contrast of usage patterns between genders:

    • Men accounted for 71% of ridership
    • Women’s trips tended to be shorter than men’s (1.4 km compared to 1.5 km), as well as slower ( 13.6 km/h compared to 14.3km/h).
    • Female riders tend to use e-scooters more near metro and tram stations.
    • Female riders account for a higher morning commute peak, and take fewer trips in the early morning and night

    With an unequal distribution of e-scooter usage across the demographics, the Lab highlights street lighting as one way of encouraging ridership, with traffic safety and the presence of streetlights proving important factors in route choice, particularly for women.

    As well as street lighting, the results reveal a requirement for improving cycling infrastructure, safety perception and route comfort.

    Furthermore, using data from 77,000 shared e-scooter rides to flag potential safety warning signs, the Lab were able to pinpoint safety hotspots across Hannover.

    The strongest risk factors were uncovered as being higher average trip speeds above 15 km/h, roads with speed limits of 50 km/h and non-signalised intersections.

    Findings revealed that male riders were associated with a higher amount of potential safety-critical events.

    From its research, the Lab is calling for inspections to be conducted on areas with repeated warning signs, an improvement on pavement quality, a review of complex intersections and roundabouts, an expansion of slow zones, and improve the designs of cycling and electric scooter infrastructure.

    How well does micromobility connect with public transport in Hannover?

    The Lab used e-scooter GPS data with Google Street View images, public transport timetables and rider surveys to analyse this.

    Findings revealed that more than 55% of e-scooter trips were classified as first- or last-mile connections to public transport, while just 2.5% were identified as competing with public transport.

    These connections were more commonly associated with commuting, rather than leisure purposes.

    With this evidence, the Lab advises for e-scooter to be strategically incorporated into the wider public transport network to increase its attractiveness to users.

    E-scooter parking in Hannover

    In early 2025, Hannover rolled out new rules for mandatory parking zones for e-scooters in the city centre.

    The Lab analysed the impact of this policy and found that most users park in the authorised areas, and had reduced parked scooters in pedestrian areas and sidewalks, without decreasing overall usage.

    It also found that the parking zones resulted in reducing very short trips of under 1 km to more meaningful travel, with distances and durations of trips to the city centre increasing, and peak morning commuting times becoming more pronounced.

    The Lab concludes that Hannover’s e-scooter parking regulation can encourage more purposeful trips that may contribute to reducing car use.

    Mobility hubs prioritisation

    To help identify this, the Lab adopted a simulation model for evaluating public transport accessibility to identify areas where mobility hubs (areas combining public transport, cycling, shared e-scooters, walking, bike parking and other mobility services) can have the greatest impact.

    The simulation identified mobility hubs that can help to reduce public transport gaps, especially for Hannover’s outer districts. It flagged the central station of Hannover Hauptbahnhof, as well as light rail (Stadtbahn), regional rail (S -Bahn) stops, and Großer Hillen, Misburger Straße, Fasanenkrug, Nordhafen, Ahlem and Anderten -Misburg being highlighted as recommended areas.

    Although the city has a dense public transport network, not all residents can access a stop within 10 minutes of walking, therefore, the Lab advises that access to the mobility hubs can be improved with micromobility services instead of walking.

    What’s next for Hannover

    Now that the city’s participation with the Lab has ended, its members will discuss with Hannover how the findings can be best implemented, and what further work may be needed.

  2. Germany sees e-bike use in rural areas flourish

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    Source: SAZ Bike

    Germans’ attitudes to e-bikes and, more widely, about cycle paths and bike parking facilities, have been revealed in the TÜV Mobility Study 2026, for which market researchers Forsa surveyed 2,504 German adults on a range of topics.

    An urban-rural divide

    The study shows that there is a difference in the use of e-bikes in smaller and larger towns or cities. In towns with fewer than 5,000 inhabitants, 18% of respondents regularly use either an e-bike or speed pedelec, while in metropolitan areas with more than 500,000 inhabitants, the figure is only 6%. This is in contrast to the use of non-electric bikes; 14% use these in small towns, compared to 26% in metropolitan areas.

    The study also found that car dependency remains high in smaller, rural towns, with 96% driving a car at least once a week, and only 8% using public transport. This highlights the importance of e-bikes in rural towns as an alternative means of transport.

    Support for enhanced cycling infrastructure

    The study shows that 83% of respondents want safe cycle paths and bicycle parking facilities, and this contrasts with poor rating of current conditions:

    • 67% rate the condition of their local roads, bike paths and pavements as rather poor or very poor.
    • 50% rate the availability of bike paths as insufficient.
    • 47% rate the availability of e-bike and bike parking facilities as insufficient.
    • 56% rate cyclists’ safety in their local town as low.
    • 47% believe their needs are insufficiently considered in traffic planning (rising to 75% among those who cycle almost daily).

    81% of respondents prioritise the expansion of cycle paths which are separated from car traffic.

    Dr. Joachim Bühler, Managing Director of the TÜV Association, said, “The needs of vulnerable road users must become the binding standard,”, and the association has called for Vision Zero to be more firmly anchored in transport policy development, and for the expansion of cycling infrastructure.

  3. Germany looking to change rental e-scooter accountability legislation

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    Source: Electrek

    Germany is planning to tighten governance around shared e-scooters, by making operators directly liable to pay for damages their vehicles cause. Riders will also be presumed at fault in incidents, unless they can prove otherwise.

    The law being proposed will cover accident accountability, as well as improperly parked vehicles.

    For accidents, it includes an aim to sort out a legal loophole which has often meant that accident victims do not receive compensation. Currently, in Germany, the injured victims normally have to prove the rider’s role in their injury, which is very difficult if the rider leaves the scene of the accident or can’t be identified.

    The new legislation being proposed would put strict liability on the rental operators as the registered e-scooter owners. Riders would also be presumed that they are at fault for injuries unless they can prove otherwise.

    For improperly parked scooters, Germany plans to crack down on holding accountability for actions for vehicles blocking sidewalks and creating hazards for pedestrians.

    Germany’s Federal Ministry for Justice and Consumer Protection has stated that the proposed change comes from the belief that if companies profit from their shared micromobility services, they could also take on the risks which those services create.

    Increasing e-scooter usage in Germany

    The tightening in governance comes after surging e-scooter use across Germany, with the amount of e-scooters insured growing from 180,000 in 2020 to almost one million in 2023.

  4. E-bike safety training for elders in Germany

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    Source: SAZ Bike

    Recently, the German town of Weingarten’s Senior Citizens Council and Motorsport Club (MSC) organised an e-bike safety training course, which covered practical techniques for safer pedelec use.

    The course, now in its third iteration, had eight participants who brought their own bicycles to the MSC grounds.

    Practical training for daily riding scenarios

    MSC member and safety instructor for motorcycles and e-bikes, Josef Rubner, led the training, with his son Lukas conducting demonstrations. Participants practised situations which are commonly encountered in riding such as slalom riding, evasive manoeuvres, emergency braking, turning, and riding with one hand extended

    Focusing on balance and vision

    Slow-speed riding was seen as one of the most challenging exercises, with most cyclists underestimating the momentum generated by pedelecs.

    The instructors also emphasised the importance of looking ahead instead of focusing on obstacles or the ground.

    Additional exercises, such as riding in tight circles and picking up a bottle while cycling, demonstrated to participants how maintaining proper visual focus can improve balance and stability. The organisers stated that they hoped the course helped to enhance both safety and enjoyment for their participants.

  5. Germany is a leader in corporate bicycle leasing, with significant cargo bike usage

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    Source: SAZBike, Arval

    According to fleet service provider Arval, global companies’ mobility strategies are increasingly including a bicycle offering. Germany has a particularly widespread culture of corporate bicycle leasing compared to other countries, with many businesses using cargo bikes for various business activities.

    The latest Arval Fleet and Mobility Barometer shows that over one-third of German companies already uses bicycle leasing, or is considering its introduction within the next three years. German companies offering bicycle leasing currently is at 20%, with a further 16% considering this within the next three years; this is a significant difference to the European average, at 5% and 6% respectively.

    Corporate bicycle sharing in Germany is also strong, with 14% of companies currently offering this, and 21% considering to introduce it. Again, this is much higher than the European average at 6% and 8% respectively.

    The use of cargo bikes by German companies is significant, with 17% already using them, and a further 30% considering introducing them in the next three years. Of this combined 47% of companies, 28% say the main reason for their use is courier services. Other key uses include last-mile delivery, customer visits, food delivery and transportation of tools and materials to customers.

    The Arval study also sees sustainability goals as a driving force behind overall mobility strategies. 40% of companies both globally and in Germany cite CSR guidelines as the main factor behind mobility strategies, while the reason of personnel-related needs such as talent recruitment, employee retention runs a close second in Germany.

    The survey polled 10,157 businesses in 33 countries around the world, including 300 in Germany.

  6. 50,000 Saxony-Anhalt state employees now eligible for company leased e-bikes and bikes

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    Sources: SAZ Bike, Pedelecs & E-Bikes

    As part of efforts to promote sustainable mobility in everyday working life, from 1 June, approximately 50,000 civil servants and employees of the direct state administration of the German state of Saxony-Anhalt will be able to lease an e-bike or traditional bike via salary conversion.

    The state’s scheme is being delivered in partnership with JobRad, and is handled through their digital platform, allowing applications to be submitted in a few steps online, or alternatively done directly at participating bicycle retailers where applicants can make use of on-site consultation, handover and service.

    The state’s aim is to make the switch to e-bikes or standard bicycles more attractive, for both commuting and leisure activities, and so help to support a sustainable transport revolution.

    JobRad CEO, Florian Baur, highlighted the company’s track record in supporting corporate bike-leasing schemes. “Together with over 100,000 employers and our 7,200 specialist retail partners, we have already put more than two million company bikes on the road. The 50,000 employees in Saxony-Anhalt can now also look forward to easily obtaining their new dream bike through a purely digital process.”

  7. Berlin hosts forum on cargo bikes for business

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    Sources: Isicargo, SAZBike Image credit: Jannette Kneisel, Isiscargo

    Berlin-based SMEs from the trades, commerce and service sectors were invited to test the use of commercial cargo bikes for everyday business in real-world conditions, and insights from the tests conducted in May will be incorporated into a Berlin Business Forum on June 17. The initiative has been organised by the Berlin Senate Department for Mobility, Transport, Climate Protection and the Environment, as part of the UNCHAIN project.

    The forum, which is prioritising a practical approach, will take place at the Isicargo Mobility Hub, and is aimed at Berlin-based companies which are interested in learning more about using cargo bikes for commercial purposes. The focus will be on practical insights on cargo bikes in commercial scenarios, networking opportunities with companies and industry experts, plus the opportunity to test a variety of cargo bike models.

    Representatives of the EU project UNCHAIN will also also be presenting their “CargoConnect” too, which supports companies using cargo bikes in route and deployment planning.

    The forum aims to provide businesses with concrete suggestions and guidance for economical, sustainable and practical mobility solutions. The event’s agenda can be viewed here, and those interested in attending must register for the limited spaces, here.

  8. Report on the bicycle logistics market in Germany

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    Source: Pedelec Elektro Fahrrad Image credit: German Bicycle Logistics Association (RLVD)

    The German Bicycle Logistics Association (RLVD) has cooperated with the Wildau University of Applied Sciences for this report on the sector’s 2026 status, with figures demonstrating a good starting position. However it is noted that its ecosystem has stagnated for the first time with no profit. It reports that last year cargo bikes were used to travel approximately 5.4 million kilometres, calculated to having saved around 1,400 tonnes of CO₂.

    The report indicates that after years of growth, the German bicycle logistics sector has stagnated for the first time. Although its figures demonstrate stable development, they do not reveal the typical growth rates as shown in previous years, with the report citing a weak economic situation and political framework conditions as the main reasons.

    Stable stagnation, but the employment rate has doubled since 2020

    The sector’s total revenue of €189.5 million is almost the same as the previous year. In terms of employment, there are currently 5,486 people working in the sector’s ecosystem, a moderate decrease in comparison to the previous year. However, employment has been more positive in the long term, with the number of jobs having doubled since 2020.

    Bicycle logistics production and operation figures

    Cargo bike and trailer production numbers have remained steady at approximately 37,000 units annually. The number of operating bike logistics companies has decreased from 112 to 107, interpreted as an initial indicator of consolidation, which is typical of more mature markets.

    Positives in safety and climate change effects

    Although the industry is experiencing economic stagnation, the report highlights the ecological benefits the sector brings to the transportation in Germany. Cargo bikes were used to travel approximately 5.4 million kilometres in 2025, which has been calculated to have saved around 1,400 tonnes of CO₂.

    Like previous years, there have been no fatal accidents involving cargo bike use, reinforcing the transportation mode as a safe, urban transportation solution.

    Growth in sub-segments

    Although the number of transportation companies has been decreasing slightly, the ecosystem is expanding in other areas, with the number of manufacturers expanding by 8% and segments including trade, service and workshops growing by 6%.

    The report also reveals cargo bike applications are increasingly diversifying with them being used for other applications beyond traditional logistics processes such as crafts, municipal services and internal transportation.

    Cautious optimism from the industry about the coming years

    From companies surveyed, the following numbers have stated the following:

    • 84% expect at least stable revenue for 2026
    • Around half are anticipating growth
    • 35% are aiming to recruit for additional positions
    • 46% number of employees to remain the same

    In regards to the medium term period, the industry’s outlook is more ambitious, with an average annual growth of 14% expected over the next five years.

    Calls for improved policymaking

    The report summarises expectations of policymakers, which include calls for consistently expanding cycling infrastructure and measures for improving road safety.

    The stakeholders are also calling for a legal framework for commercial cargo bikes which is innovation-friendly. In regards to economic policy, there are requests for a reliable funding environment, improved conditions for start-up and stronger CO₂ pricing on the agenda.

    Perspectives from industry and research leaders

    The CEO of the RLVD, Ernst Brust, has summarised that the current industry developments should be interpreted as signal for action being needed toward progressing a political framework which consistently supports climate friendly logistics solutions like cargo bikes which has have high energy efficiency, a clear advantage of over conventional commercial vehicles.

    Christian Rudolph from the Wildau University of Applied Science highlights that bicycle logistics is showing resilience in established markets, and that although there is consolidation, there is no slump and innovation is continuing. He is of the opinion that bicycle logistics no longer has a niche status and is maturing further with its own independent ecosystem.

    A mature market with new beginnings

    The 2026 reports reveals the market is transitioning – although the rapid growth phase has ended for now, there are structural adjustments underway. Report implications state that provided the political framework adapts to the market needs, bicycle logistics can remain a significant part of sustainable urban mobility with promising prospects.

  9. 1.4 million privately owned e-scooters and 12.2 million e-bikes in Germany, data shows

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    Sources: Cycling Industry News, Heise, IndexBox

    Figures published by the German Federal Statistical Office, Destatis, have revealed that private ownership of electric scooters and bikes in Germany is soaring. 2.9% of households own at least one e-scooter, and numbers of e-bikes not requiring a licence reached 12.2 million in 2023.

    The private ownership of electric micromobility devices can be assessed in comparison to the increasing popularity of shared-use schemes for urban travel and last-mile connectivity, with access to shared-use vehicles being subject to shifting policy and regulations.

    Germany is seeing strong growth towards electric mobility of all kinds, and it has been reported that there are now in total over 17 million e-bikes on the country’s roads – a marked contrast to its approximately 2 million electric cars.

    Figures show that there is at least one standard e-bike (excluding speed pedelecs) in every fifth German household, at 20.6%. This is in contrast to figures for 2018, where 3.8 million e-bikes represented only 7% of households. Ownership of any type of bike is high in the country, with 78.4% of households containing a total of 74.9 million bicycles in 2023.