For its report Micromobility Potential in the US, UK and Germany, INRIX Research analyzed trillions of anonymous data points from hundreds of millions of connected devices to rank the top American, British and German cities where micromobility services would have the most potential reduce vehicle trips. It focused on short-vehicle distance trips of around 5 kilometers or less.
It found that shared bikes and scooters could replace 50% of short-distance vehicle trips in the US, 60% of short-distance vehicle trips in Germany, and 70% of short-distance vehicle trips in the UK. Combined, this could replace over 60 million car trips each year.
Increased micromobility services in cities would bring considerable benefits to consumers and businesses alike: efficient and cost-effective travel, reduced traffic congestion, decreased emissions and a boost to the local economy.
However, for micromobility to truly succeed, cities will have to develop a clear understand of where to position micromobility services in each city and have the necessary tools to manage these services. According to the report, this could include creating protected lanes and pick-up/drop-off areas for dockless scooters or bikes, revamping traffic rules and regulations, and perhaps capping the number of micromobility vehicles to avoid conflicts with pedestrians, road vehicles and business owners.
Honolulu, New Orleans and Nashville were the top 3 cities in the US with the greatest potential for micromobility to succeed. In the UK, Manchester topped the list and London came in fourth place; however, as the report explains, London’s high public transport coverage and distinct neighbourhoods already reduce the need for short-distance vehicle trips as services are easily accessible by walking or public transport. The top two German cities are Munich and Hamburg, which also happen to be the two densest cities in Germany.
