Tag Archive: Micromobility

  1. ITF publishes Greener Micromobility report

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    In an update to previous research titled “Good to Go”, the new data reflects the improved evidence base regarding the environmental impact of micromobility 

    Source: ITF

    In 2020, the International Transport Forum (ITF) released the report “Good to Go? Assessing the Environmental Performance of New Mobility,” which evaluated the environmental impacts of emerging transportation modes. Over the past four years, there has been a substantial increase in data and understanding regarding the environmental implications of micromobility, and significant strides have been made to mitigate its environmental footprint.

    The ITF’s latest report builds upon the 2020 study, incorporating newly available evidence, a survey of industry stakeholders, and recent publications. This update aims to provide fresh insights and actionable recommendations for both regulatory authorities and micromobility operators to further enhance the environmental performance of micromobility solutions.

    The updated report leverages a detailed lifecycle environmental impact spreadsheet tool, which includes comprehensive calculations, input factors, and sources utilized for this analysis. This tool is instrumental in offering precise and transparent assessments of the environmental impacts associated with micromobility.

    Key Insights and Recommendations

    Greener Micromobility in Practice:
    Micromobility, which includes modes such as e-scooters and shared bicycles, has become increasingly sustainable. Cycling remains the most eco-friendly mode of urban transportation after walking. The advent of electrification has enabled cyclists to cover greater distances, further promoting the use of bicycles over less environmentally friendly transport options.

    Sustainable Vehicle Design:
    Significant advancements have been made in the design of shared micromobility vehicles, resulting in lower lifecycle environmental impacts. Innovations in vehicle durability, modularity, and ease of repair have extended the operational lifetimes of these vehicles, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions on a per-rider-kilometre basis.

    Enhanced Fleet Operations:
    Operational efficiencies have been achieved through the adoption of swappable, higher-capacity batteries, which minimize the environmental impacts of fleet recharging. Additionally, the use of cargo bikes for fleet servicing and improved logistical strategies for maintenance, repair, and repositioning have contributed to greener operations. While the electrification of servicing vans plays a role, its impact is comparatively minor.

    For a more detailed discussion on these findings, readers are encouraged to join the upcoming “Ask the Author” webinar, where the report’s authors will delve into the nuances of the study and answer questions from participants. Further details about the Micromobility: Back to the Future project can also be explored for those interested in the broader context of these developments.

    Conclusion

    The progress in the environmental performance of micromobility over the past four years highlights the sector’s potential for contributing to sustainable urban transport. Through continued innovation and strategic improvements, micromobility can further reduce its environmental footprint, making cities greener and more efficient.

    Sign up here to attend the Ask the Author webinar and learn more about these important advancements in micromobility.

    View the report in pdf

  2. How compact electric vehicles could challenge the dominance of SUVs

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    Source: The Guardian

    The Guardian reports on driving through the streets of central London in a diminutive Microlino electric car, as its petite frame contrasts sharply with the towering SUVs, it draws an unexpected amount of attention. Passersby cheerfully nicknamed the vehicle “Lego car.”

    A quirky innovation from Micro

    Made by Micro, the Swiss family-owned company renowned for its mini-micro kick scooters, the Microlino embodies the retro charm of 1950s bubble cars. Measuring a mere 2.5 meters in length—just marginally smaller than a Smart car—it boasts a unique front door and a rear hatch for accessing the boot. Its innovative design, with the windscreen and bonnet swinging open, facilitates seamless entry and exit.

    Challenging the dominance of SUVs

    As the Microlino makes its debut in the UK market, it defies the prevailing trend favouring larger vehicles, particularly SUVs. Despite environmental concerns and warnings from experts, SUVs accounted for nearly half of global car sales in 2023, marking a significant shift towards larger, heavier automobiles.

    In the congested streets of London, the Microlino stands out, attracting countless double takes, waves, and laughter. Cyclists engage in conversations at traffic lights, while even bus drivers pause to offer enthusiastic gestures of approval. Its manoeuvrability makes it ideal for urban navigation, although its range of 136 miles and top speed of 56mph allow for occasional longer trips.

    Parking snugly between luxury vehicles like Bentleys and Land Rover Defenders in affluent London districts exemplifies the Microlino’s adaptability. Despite the prevalence of SUVs, in these areas including Chelsea, a posh area of London that gave name to the “Chelsea tractors”, compact cars like the Microlino find their place.

    Factors driving the trend towards larger cars

    The reach of SUV’s go far beyond affluent areas. David Bailey, a professor of business economics at the University of Birmingham, explored the various factors contribute to the proliferation of larger vehicles, including customer demand for spacious interiors and a commanding view of the road. Regulatory requirements, such as safety features and emissions control systems, also influence car sizes, with smaller vehicles facing higher production costs.

    Environmental implications of car size

    The expansion of car sizes poses significant environmental challenges, with larger vehicles consuming more fossil fuels and emitting higher levels of carbon dioxide. Additionally, the production of electric SUVs requires substantial quantities of minerals, hindering decarbonization efforts. Moreover, larger vehicles contribute to increased tire pollution and pedestrian fatalities, particularly among women and children.

    Trends towards smaller electric vehicles

    The imminent launch of smaller, more affordable electric models, such as the Renault 5 and the Dacia Spring, offers promise for accelerating the transition away from fossil fuels. However, limited offerings from major manufacturers hinder progress, with only a few ventures into the realm of truly compact electric cars.

    China emerges as a dominant force in the market for tiny electric cars, leveraging cheap lithium iron phosphate batteries to produce affordable models like the Geometry Panda, Mini EV, and Baojun Yep. These compact vehicles offer SUV styling in a compact package, reflecting a growing trend towards smaller, more efficient transportation solutions.

    Microlino’s vision

    Merlin Ouboter, the driving force behind the Microlino project, envisions a future where compact, efficient vehicles like the Microlino revolutionize urban transportation. Designed for short-distance travel, the Microlino aims to address the majority of daily commuting needs while promoting shared mobility solutions for longer journeys.

    Policy interventions for sustainable transport

    Advocates like James Nix emphasize the need for policy interventions to promote sustainable transportation practices. Measures such as higher parking fees for large vehicles and increased sales taxes can help mitigate the growing size of cars and encourage the adoption of more environmentally friendly alternatives. Emulating successful initiatives implemented in countries like France could pave the way for a more sustainable evolution of the European car fleet.

  3. Global micromobility market predicted to be worth $250 billion by 2035

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    Source: ZAG Daily

    According to McKinsey and Zag Daily, the global micromobility market is anticipated to reach $520 billion by 2035. This projection marks a substantial increase of $360 billion from its current value and $180 billion from McKinsey’s previous estimate for 2030.

    The unveiling of McKinsey’s findings precedes a panel discussion titled ‘McKinsey’s Latest Micromobility Market Sizing and Consumer Insights,’ scheduled to be hosted by Associate Partner Anja Huber and Expert Darius Scurtu at the Micromobility Europe expo in Amsterdam.

    “The main underlying drivers for our predictions on the global micromobility market are regulation and consumer behaviour,” Darius Scurtu from the McKinsey Center for Future Mobility said.

    “We expect that cities and countries will continue to support micromobility to reach their climate targets as one of many “sustainable” modes, and thus further invest in micromobility infrastructure, provide purchase subsidies, or partner with private micromobility operators.

    “We also see rising consumer interest to integrate micromobility into their everyday lives, since modes such as e-bikes allow for longer trips and more use cases, and since micromobility will often become the cheaper and more convenient mode of travel compared to private cars, particularly in inner cities.”

    Market dynamics

    Currently, the top five European countries collectively command nearly 50% of the European micromobility market, totalling a value pool of $29 billion. Among these leading markets, Germany, France, and the UK claim the top spots. McKinsey defines value pools as encompassing one-time vehicle sales along with downstream revenues such as aftermarket services and maintenance.

    Attributing the dominance of these markets to factors like population size, pricing of micromobility vehicles, and existing bicycle infrastructure, McKinsey predicts market consolidation over the next three years, with slower uptake compared to initial forecasts due to subdued consumer demand.

    E-bikes and consumer preferences

    McKinsey’s research also reveals that e-bikes presently constitute nearly 40% of Europe’s micromobility market, valued at approximately $22 billion. This segment is projected to grow at a rate of 13% annually, reaching $110 billion by 2035. The increasing preference for e-bikes is evident from consumers’ willingness to spend 9% more on their next bicycle purchase, driven by factors like convenience and expanding use cases.

    Darius emphasized the versatility of e-bikes, which cater to various needs effortlessly, making them more appealing to consumers compared to conventional bikes or other micromobility options. Their Mobility Consumer Survey from 2024 indicates that a majority of e-bike owners use their vehicles for everyday commuting, underscoring its popularity among global consumers.

  4. ITF publishes Safe Micromobility report

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    The report examines recent micromobility safety trends and risks and includes recommendations for authorities and operators

    Source: ITF

    In 2020, the ITF published Safe Micromobility, a report assessing the safety of micromobility and emerging mobility services. Over the past four years, significant changes have occurred in the evidence surrounding micromobility safety. The report presents an analysis of the current evidence on recent trends and risks in micromobility safety, offering safety recommendations for both authorities and micromobility operators in line with the Safe System approach.

    The analysis is grounded in a comprehensive technical report authored by the same individuals, which contains more extensive information and a complete list of references for all data and findings presented in this publication.

    Policy Insights:

    • Micromobility is becoming safer, but the rising incidence of severe injuries resulting from e-scooter accidents is a cause for concern. Overall, shared e-scooter crash risk is decreasing as their usage is increasing faster than injuries.
    • Safe infrastructure and vehicle design cannot be overstated. Rider behaviour and safety equipment must be complemented by better infrastructure and improved vehicle design, particularly for e-scooters.
    • Reinforcing existing policies improves safety. Road safety measures also make micromobility safer – managing speed, providing training to road users, and enforcing rules against impaired driving and riding.

    Download the full report here.

  5. Global micromobility market to be worth $340 billion by 2030

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    Source: ZAG Daily

    According to a recent report by McKinsey, the global micromobility market is projected to grow to $340 billion by 2030, a significant increase from approximately $160 billion in 2022. Europe is expected to contribute the largest portion of this value, with an estimated $140 billion by 2030, up from $60 billion in 2022.

    Kersten Heineke, Co-Leader for Future Mobility at McKinsey Center, emphasized “We believe that regulation is the key market driver for micromobility, next to macroeconomic developments such as population and GDP, consumer behaviour and new emerging technologies,”

    “Almost 60% of metropolises in the EU and US support micromobility through different forms of investment schemes, infrastructure projects or urban vehicle access restrictions. Within these, we have particularly seen European cities and countries as frontrunners, which in turn is driving the market development.“

    The surge in market value is primarily fueled by the increasing popularity of e-bikes, which offer a wider range of applications compared to e-scooters, including cargo transport, and boast a better total cost of ownership than e-mopeds. Government subsidies targeting e-bicycles and growing interest from employers, particularly in Germany, are further accelerating this trend.

    Heineke added, “Additionally, we currently see government subsidies specifically targeting e-bicycles, and also employers increasingly see the electric bicycle as a good alternative to the car when it comes to corporate leasing schemes, particularly in Germany.”

    McKinsey plans to provide an updated assessment of market size at the upcoming Micromobility Industries conference in June.

  6. Pendix: Zwickau electric drives for Greek bicycle innovations

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    What do Zwickau in Saxony, Germany and Thessaloniki in Greece have in common? In the case of the young companies Elektronio and LEVA-EU member Pendix, it is their fascination for innovating new solutions in the field of mobility. The partnership between the Greek innovation hub for two- and multi-wheelers and the Saxon e-bike drive specialist has now lasted more than six years. Time for a closer look.

    Elektronio is a micromobility solutions company founded in Thessaloniki, Greece in 2015. It manufactures customized electric bikes and electric kick scooters to meet various urban transportation needs. It is produced on customer request, using a handcrafted process. This start-up runs a lab with a showroom in the city center of Thessaloniki and offers other services and products. These include conversion kits for electric bicycles, an e-bike service and a large selection of bicycle accessories. “Our journey as a start-up started with the launch of a single model, a tilting tricycle. We now have a complete portfolio of nine micromobility models on the market. Some solutions are aimed at urban commuters, others are freight models for delivery traffic, and we have also developed some special models for people with disabilities,” says Anna Chlioura. She founded the company together with co-founder Pantelis Zarkos and also acts as marketing manager.

    The mobility start-up serves both corporate and end customers and sees its unique selling point in a mix of adaptability, innovative design, and occupying market niches that are neglected by competitors. An example of this is the Patin.e electric scooter. Here the manufacturer does not focus on the portability of the vehicle, but rather on its safety and a certain loading capacity. This means that the scooter can also serve as a mini delivery van.

    On the same wavelength when it comes to technology and design

    The Greek company has been cooperating with Pendix GmbH, a Saxon manufacturer of electric bicycle drives, since 2017. The start-up became aware of the Zwickau supplier through the Praxi Network, a Greek organization for technology transfer and innovation promotion. “We were looking for a reliable supplier for the electric part of our bicycles. What interested us most about Pendix was the technology, performance and design of the mid-drive system developed by the company. We also liked the fact that we could easily have the mid-engine as a retrofit for our services,“ remembers Anna Chlioura.

    “Electronio asked us at the time because it needed an electrical solution with high functionality and easy installation to optimize its vehicles. It was also important to our customer to find a long-term partner with efficient after-sales support,” explains André Seifert, Sales Manager at Pendix GmbH. In its sixth year of collaboration, the Greek start-up has primarily used the mid-engine Pendix eDrive in various e-bike models. In addition, the Pendix eDrive IN rear wheel hub motor from Zwickau production has been used for a few months now. “We tested the Pendix eDrive IN for a special electric tricycle for wheelchair users traveling with their loved ones. We are currently producing a small series of this special model with the hub motor. This offers an additional function for our e-bike, reversing, which makes it even more mobile,“ explains Anna Chlioura.

    The right “electrical fit” for every idea

    “We work with our customers according to an all-in-one strategy. This includes all steps from development to service. Elektronio receives all physical components and the necessary software from us from a single source. Every component is configured for the customer, meaning the drive can be installed and used immediately,” says Sales Manager Seifert. In addition, the mentality of the young company from Saxony also found favor with the start-up from Thessaloniki. The supplier also gives small manufacturers access to its high-end products and promotes their development efforts. “Pendix regularly gives us new suggestions on how we can improve our small vehicles. It is also a source of inspiration for us with its constantly evolving product range. We are certain that we can develop our bike ideas without restrictions and that we always have the right ‘electrical fit’ through our supplier. As a newbie in this industry, we have also gained confidence from working with it.“

    Transmission problem solved with transport bike

    There is no shortage of new mobility concepts at the Greek start-up. An updated version of the Kouvala.e freight model will come onto the market in the next few months. The last edition of the transport bike had a problem transmitting the drive power from the pedals to the rear steering wheel and the two front drive wheels. A chain was out of the question, so Electronio looked into alternatives. Thanks to the Pendix eDrive IN, this problem is easily solved. In this serial hybrid drive, the original Pendix mid-engine was converted into a generator on the pedal crank, it transmits the one generated by the driver energy as well as speed and torque signals via cable to the wheel hub motors. This eliminates the chain drive train’s problems in energy transmission. Without a chain, the drive system now runs completely wear-free and there are hardly any maintenance costs. The integrated mid-engine Pendix gDrive, which will come onto the market in 2025, has already caught the start-up’s interest. This will also be used in different models in the future.

    About Pendix:

    The bicycle drive manufacturer Pendix, founded in 2013, is part of the Pendix Group. On the market since 2015, the employees of Pendix GmbH focus on the further development and marketing of products such as the Pendix eDrive, the hub motor Pendix eDrive IN and the integrated mid-motor Pendix gDrive. From drive production in Zwickau and the VSC.BIKE bicycle production in Allstedt, the drives, components and bicycles are sold or used by more than 750 authorized Pendix dealers, 37 bicycle manufacturers worldwide and 35 industrial customers. High quality, sustainability, reliability and smart technologies drive Pendix to deliver the best possible quality and make a contribution to the environment.

    Further information: https://pendix.de/

    Contact person/contact:

    André Seifert, Sales Manager Pendix

    Tel.: +49 375 270 667 14

    Email: a.seifert@pendix.de

  7. fka and TRL publish webinar on the future of EU micromobility technical regulations

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    The online event was a successful stakeholder launch of a project being conducted by TRL and fka on behalf of the European Commission on future regulations for micromobility in the EU

    Lead by Dr Ianto Guy, Practice Lead at TRL, and attended by Annick Roetynck, Manager of LEVA-EU, the online webinar discussed harmonised rules to support the rise of micromobility and increased road safety for personal mobility devices. Lasting approximately 1.5 hours, the webinar included a fruitful QnA session.

    TRL is a global centre for innovation in surface transport and mobility, with a focus on creating clean and efficient transport that is safe, reliable and accessible for everyone. The Germany-based fka is a research partner for the automotive industry, developing innovative solutions and strategic consulting.

    The presentation includes a call for assistance, where TRL is very keen to hear from stakeholders who can help with following:

    ▪ Market data
    ▪ Evidence on the ways in which a lack of harmonised regulations is affecting the micromobility industry
    ▪ Collision data – particularly, detailed accounts of collision mechanisms
    ▪ Suggestions and feedback on cutoff limits for micromobility (30km/h, 250kg ??) – do we need to include factors other than mass and speed?
    ▪ Suggestions and feedback on technical requirements
    ▪ Suggestions and feedback on a pragmatic but effective system for self-certification which enables easy enforcement?
    ▪ Potential unintended consequences

    Contact details can be found within the presentation pdf file.

    Watch the webinar in full on YouTube here.

  8. Micromobility in 2024: Aon’s seven key trends outlined

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    Source: ZAG Daily

    Benjamin Hindson, Digital Economy Chief Commercial Officer of Aon, outlines his selection of key micromobility trends for 2024

    The past year has been busy for micromobility – nearly half, or 46%, of respondents in a McKinsey consumer survey are open to switching from their private vehicles to alternative modes of transportation in the next decade. This indicates that the micromobility sector will likely remain a focal point to observe in 2024.

    Here are seven prominent trends poised to revolutionize mobility:

    1. Growth in mobility as a service (MaaS)

    More people are embracing multi-modal travel, opting for a diverse range of transportation options such as scooters, bikes, taxis, and car rentals. It’s one of the reasons we’re seeing growth in MaaS represented by super transport apps which allow users to access multiple services through a single platform. Due to this trend, micromobility providers and operators can afford to specialise while tapping into a broader mobility network.

    2. The rise of mobility hubs

    There is an expected continual rise in multi-modal hubs – centralised areas offering various transport options, centred around existing train stations or taxi hubs. As smart cities advance and we become more connected, these hubs will play a pivotal role in facilitating efficient movement.

    3. Enhanced use of data and telematics

    In the micromobility sector, there is increased data collection and analysis, enabling operators to compare behaviour for a variety of factors (e.g. night vs. day riding, first to multiple-time users, notifications for accidents or interference, whether a scooter has been ridden on the pavement or road, and so on). This data-rich environment enables operators to understand customer decision making, safety patterns and usage across different zones, enabling a comprehensive understanding of risk factors beyond conventional crash hazards.

    4. Increased regulation and expanding personal ownership

    It is anticipated that more countries, regions and cities will adopt a tender process for micromobility operators to run their services in a particular town or city. New UK legislation is expected around the use of e-scooters which could accelerate private use. Despite widespread private ownership of bikes, shared bike schemes thrive, indicating potential coexistence between private and shared micromobility.

    5. Design evolution

    Micromobility vehicles are evolving to be more sustainable, durable, and recyclable; this is likely to carry on in 2024, specifically with continued evolution in terms of their design. The development of micro cars, such as the Citroën Ami – pods for urban mobility – is also expected to gain momentum, meaning more may be seen on the streets.

    6. More consolidation and mergers and acquisitions

    As venture capital funding becomes more expensive for operators, who are overall, not yet profitable, the industry may witness greater consolidation and mergers to achieve scalability and profitability faster. The rate of mergers and acquisitions could pick up in 2024 to accelerate business models.

    7. Insurance competition opportunties

    While there remains a market appetite for general liability cover for micromobility operators, especially where the risk is placed using brokers who understand the risk and the business model, rider liability poses challenges. Next year it’s likely to be very similar unless more insurers enter the scene. New insurers are hesitant due to a lack of understanding for how to apply the data to their existing models. For the right insurer, there are opportunities to foster competition that may benefit micromobility operators.

    Micromobility’s return to Paris

    By the time of the Paris Olympics in July next year, it will be interesting to see how many of these themes are playing out in the first half of 2024. For the city which recently banned rented e-scooters from its streets, micromobility advocates will be interested to see a sponsored range of 250 seated and standing “personal battery electric vehicles“, in place to help athletes, organisers and volunteers move between the venues in Paris.

  9. Report suggests 280 million electric bikes and mopeds are reducing global oil demand more than electric cars

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    Source: The Conversation

    In a recent eye-opening report by The Conversation, the focus is on electric bikes and mopeds, revealing their remarkable impact on slashing oil demand, outpacing the effects of electric cars. The article notes that 44% of all Australian commuter trips are by car, particularly for distances under 10km, mirroring trends in wealthier countries like the United States, where 60% of car trips cover less than 10km.

    Contrary to the assumption that electric cars are the go-to solution, the report highlights that for short trips, electric bikes and mopeds, collectively known as electric micromobility, prove to be a more economical and environmentally friendly option. Astoundingly, these micromobility options are displacing four times more demand for oil than all the world’s electric cars combined. This is largely attributed to their widespread adoption in China and other nations where mopeds are a prevalent form of transport.

    The global landscape of electric vehicles (EVs) reveals a stark contrast. While there were over 20 million electric vehicles and 1.3 million commercial EVs on the roads last year, the numbers of two- and three-wheelers eclipse these figures with over 280 million electric mopeds, scooters, motorcycles, and three-wheelers. Bloomberg New Energy Finance estimates that the sheer popularity of these smaller vehicles is already reducing oil demand by about 1% globally, equivalent to a million barrels of oil per day.

    The report challenges the perception of electric cars as an unequivocal solution due to their space consumption, heavy reliance on electricity, and the environmental impact of battery production. In comparison, electric bikes and mopeds emerge as efficient, cost-effective alternatives, particularly for short-hop trips. For instance, commuting on an e-bike 20km a day, five days a week, costs approximately $20 annually in charging.

    As electric micromobility gains traction globally, it offers a unique opportunity to reconsider urban transportation. Smaller electric options like scooters and skateboards address the last-kilometer problem in public transport systems, offering a swift solution for the inconvenient distance between home and transportation hubs. Studies suggest that widespread adoption of e-bikes could lead to a 7% reduction in transport emissions if they account for 11% of all vehicle trips.

    In conclusion, as petrol prices rise and battery costs fall, the cost-effectiveness of electric micromobility, coupled with its potential to significantly cut urban emissions, challenges the dominance of electric cars. As global oil demand is projected to peak in 2028, the report suggests that electric micromobility might play a pivotal role in accelerating the decline, given its rapid adoption and cost advantages. Individuals are encouraged to reassess their transportation needs, considering electric bikes and mopeds for short trips, while keeping electric cars in mind for longer journeys or group outings.

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