Electric scooters and bikes seem to be increasing in popularity recently. Purchases of two-wheeled vehicles are rapidly rising in the search for alternative means to navigate easy movement around the city without depending on pedal power on pedal power alone.
Their presence in the streets is probably more noticeable as a result of the numerous share models that are available. Riders can easily download an app, find a nearby, and ride. Aside from the energy benefits of these vehicles compared to cars, they are also cheaper than public commuting.
E-bikes and e-scooters are classified as micromobility services-lightweight personal vehicles that transport people to short distances at moderate speeds. Contrary to their name, they may be instrumental in solving some “macro” issues facing society today.
According to Lee Roberts, an urban planner and active transport researcher at UNSW city, these vehicles solve the city’s need for increased mobility options with reduced friction. It could make transportation around the city better for people.
An alternative for car-free transportation
Micromobility services are ideal for moving through transit deserts- these are places where public transport would not typically reach. In other words, they are perfect for taking you to the train station or when you gare too tired to walk home. Another thing to consider is that, unlike vehicles that require pedal power, they don’t get you sweaty and need you to change clothes after reaching your destination.
E-bikes and e-scooters are also better for the environment because they don’t release emissions like cars. It is practically the total package- environmentally and socially beneficial.
Despite the numerous advantages of micromobility vehicles, most shared services barely survive in cities unready for them. This is due to bans and restrictions instituted by these cities with the claim that dockless systems may be hazardous to pedestrians.
Even in cities without bans, shared services pull out because of issues with fleet size as well as type. On the other hand, users back out because of a lack of the necessary transport infrastructure, such as separated cyclic lanes.
If micromobility will be functional in our cities, government support is crucial.
