E-bike ownership and commuting use expanding across demographics in the Netherlands
Comments Off on E-bike ownership and commuting use expanding across demographics in the NetherlandsSource: Fietsberaad
Electric bicycle use for commuting is increasing across a broader segment of the Dutch population, with differences among age, gender, education, and income groups gradually narrowing.
This trend is supported by research conducted by Eindhoven University of Technology, based on national travel data collected between 2014 and 2021. While electric bike usage is observed throughout the Netherlands, it is particularly prevalent in rural areas.
The study analyzed data from the “Survey of Travel in the Netherlands” (OViN) and “Underway in the Netherlands” (ODiN), focusing specifically on commuting trips made with various transport modes, including privately owned pedal-assist electric bicycles.
Trends in ownership
The proportion of Dutch households owning an electric bicycle increased steadily between 2014 and 2021, with a noticeable acceleration during the COVID-19 pandemic. E-bike ownership has historically been associated with certain socio-economic characteristics, such as higher income levels and households that also own a car, but these associations have become less pronounced over time. Smaller households continue to show higher rates of e-bike ownership compared to larger households, although this gap is also narrowing.
Geographic location plays a role in ownership patterns. Residents in rural areas are more likely to own electric bicycles compared to those in urban settings. Factors such as the availability of alternative transport options and greater accessibility in cities may influence this difference. Nonetheless, ownership is on the rise across both urban and rural regions.
Commuting patterns
Commuting by e-bike has increased among all age groups. Although the highest usage remains among individuals aged 60 and older, growth is evident among people under 40. This shift may reflect changing perceptions of e-bikes as a suitable commuting option, possibly influenced by the pandemic, which positioned the e-bike as a viable alternative to public transportation.
Differences in usage based on gender and education persist; women and individuals with higher education levels continue to use e-bikes more frequently, but these disparities are also diminishing. Most commuting trips by e-bike cover distances up to 10 kilometers. Usage is less common for routes with high accessibility, though this is becoming a less significant factor over time.
Policy implications
The findings provide insights into the evolving dynamics of e-bike ownership and commuting use, which may support the development of targeted transportation and environmental policies. As e-bikes gain popularity across a wider range of demographic groups, infrastructure developments, such as expanded charging facilities at homes and workplaces, may become increasingly necessary.
Researchers emphasise that e-bikes should no longer be considered a niche form of transport limited to older adults, higher-income households, or specific education levels. Instead, they are becoming a mainstream commuting option. The study also suggests that initiatives to promote e-bike use may yield more impact in rural areas, where both ownership and usage are currently more prevalent.