Shared Micro‑Mobility and Transport Equity: A European Case Study

This study examines the impact of shared micro‑mobility services—such as e‑scooters and e‑bikes—on transport equity in three European countries: Germany, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. It investigates how these services are utilised by different socio‑economic groups and assesses their role in enhancing or hindering accessibility for transport‑disadvantaged populations. The research employs a combination of user surveys and mobility data analysis to identify patterns of usage and barriers to access. Findings indicate that while shared micro‑mobility services have the potential to improve mobility options, their benefits are not equally distributed across all demographic groups. Low‑income individuals and people with disabilities face significant challenges in accessing and utilizing these services, primarily due to issues related to affordability, availability, and design. The study concludes with recommendations for policymakers and service providers to enhance the inclusivity and accessibility of shared micro‑mobility services, ensuring that they contribute to a more equitable urban transport system.

Supporting evidence

The research highlights several key barriers faced by transport‑disadvantaged groups in accessing shared micro‑mobility services:

• Affordability – High rental costs and deposit requirements make these services less accessible to low‑income individuals.
• Availability – Limited‑service coverage in certain areas, particularly in suburban or rural regions, restricts access for residents in these locales.
• Design Issues – The physical design of vehicles and the user interfaces of apps often do not accommodate the needs of people with disabilities or older adults.

Data analysis reveals that usage patterns vary significantly across different socio‑economic groups. For instance, in Manchester, shared e‑bike usage was predominantly by higher‑income individuals, while e‑scooter usage was more common among lower‑income groups. These disparities suggest that while shared micro‑mobility services have the potential to enhance mobility, their current implementation may inadvertently exacerbate existing inequalities.

Key findings

• Unequal Access – Shared micro‑mobility services are not equally accessible to all demographic groups, with significant disparities observed based on income, age, and disability status.
• Affordability Challenges – High costs associated with rentals and deposits pose a barrier to low‑income individuals, limiting their ability to utilise these services.
• Design Limitations – The design of vehicles and user interfaces often fails to accommodate the needs of people with disabilities and older adults, hindering their usage.
• Geographical Disparities – Service coverage is often concentrated in urban centres, leaving suburban and rural areas underserved and limiting access for residents in these regions.
• Policy Recommendations – To promote transport equity, the study recommends implementing pricing strategies that consider income levels, expanding service coverage to underserved areas, and designing vehicles and interfaces that are accessible to all users.