One of the fastest-growing initiatives in the world is micromobility. In fact, by 2030, it’s expected to be a 200 billion-dollar industry in the US alone.
Part of the reason for this boom is that the demand for micromobility devices (eScooters, Vespas, Segways, eBikes, traditional bikes, etc.) has steadily increased in large urban areas over the last several years.
Micromobility devices are attractive because they offer quick, convenient, and cheap transportation to nearby destinations.
So, what does the future of micromobility look like? Here are five trends to watch out for in the new year.
1. Mobility hubs
Mobility hubs are access points that allow people to choose from various modes of transportation. They typically integrate shared micromobility (such as bike share and scooter-share) with public transit, access to cycling routes, EV charging, and even car-share pick-up/drop-off points.
The vision behind these hubs is reducing traffic congestion and greenhouse gasses and encouraging more significant social equity by ensuring every commuter has access to their choice of transportation, regardless of whether they own a car.
2. Multimodal docking and charging
The idea behind multimodality is to combine several modes of transportation into one spot – usually a centrally located area near train stations, bus stops, and other public transportation hubs.
Multimodal stations that are integrated into mobility hubs facilitate the use of several forms of alternative and sustainable transportation. At each of these points, people can grab a bike, take a bus, or access a cycling path.
3. Electric bikes
Across the globe, more and more big cities are integrating pedal-assisted electric bikes into their fleets.
It’s easy to see why electric bicycles are becoming so popular. They’re perfect for commutes (even in hot weather and hilly terrain), they allow locals and tourists to get around a city without breaking a sweat or depending on a car, and they’re more affordable than traditional transportation.
And don’t forget – even though electric bikes might feel like riding to your destination is a breeze, you still get your daily exercise.
4. MaaS (Mobility as a service)
As cities worldwide begin to reimagine public transit, including shared micromobility systems, more and more transit apps reflect the exciting emergence of MaaS (mobility as a service).
Thanks to MaaS, users only need one convenient app to easily access multiple ways to plan trips and commutes, from bus routes to bike rentals. One exciting feature embedded in these MaaS apps allow users to locate bikes and stations using Google Maps.
5. Solar charging
Going green is becoming a priority for many cities (and businesses) around the globe. And solar-powered mobility is a trending focus that we will see continue into 2023.
Are you ready to encourage your employees to go car-free? Even part-time? Commuter benefits can help.
Commuter benefits allow employees to use pre-tax dollars towards commuting costs like public transportation, rideshares, and qualified parking expenses.
Offering commuter benefits to your employees is a great way to encourage them to go car-free. Because employees can use these benefits on mass transit and rideshares, they are helpful ways to reduce the use of cars and lower each employee’s carbon footprint.
- Renting a bike is an inexpensive way to ease into micromobility around town. This micromobility option is the greenest (and cheapest) since it doesn’t require gas or emit harmful emissions.
- Electric mopeds are powered by a rechargeable battery, which means they have no emissions and will not require visits to a gas station to fill up the tank. They usually require a more significant upfront financial commitment than a bike. Still, technological advances allow them to be driven for longer distances, making this an excellent option for commuting.
- E-scooters contribute about half the amount of emissions of the average car. According to a study out of North Carolina University, while e-scooters may not be the most sustainable option, they are better than cars.
Edenred supports micromobility
At Edenred, we understand that commuter needs are changing rapidly. That’s why we offer various shared mobility options integrated into one commuter account. On top of that, we’ll assist you with identifying eligible pre-tax expenses so your company and employees continue to receive tax incentives and remain compliant with IRS regulations.
In addition to traditional pre-tax commuter benefits like public transit and parking, we also offer other flexible options to fit the unique needs of your employees, including:
- Bike sharing
- Bike shops
- e-scooters
- e-mopeds
- Corporate shuttles
Micromobility is here to stay, and you can help your employees get on board by offering commuter benefits and micromobilty options. Schedule a meeting today, and we’ll be happy to review all your options.
