Enhancing the Regulatory Framework for Platform-Based Mobility Services: Facilitating the Transition from Cars in Urban Mobility

This paper highlights the pressing need for sustainable alternatives to cars in urban mobility. It explores the potential of platform-based mobility services as a viable strategy to transition from cars, analysing the associated incentives and barriers using the Multilevel Perspective (MLP) framework (Geels, 2002; Rip and Kemp, 1998). This analysis uncovers challenges faced by platform-based mobility solutions, including limited user practices, knowledge, infrastructure, and policy support compared to cars. However, it also identifies opportunities for these alternatives stemming from the problems faced by the car regime. Moreover, the study investigates the development of a regulatory framework for platform-based mobility solutions, aiming to promote sustainability and mitigate negative externalities. The analysis focuses on the regulations governing shared dockless micromobility in Los Angeles, providing an experimental setting. This paper introduces a novel approach by evaluating Los Angeles’ micromobility regulations from the perspective of Strategic Niche Management (SNM), an important strategy developed within the sustainability transitions literature to accelerate transitions towards sustainability (Kemp et al., 1998). The paper emphasizes the importance of effective regulation to guide emerging technologies towards sustainable urban mobility, highlighting the challenges and uncertainties involved. It proposes an experimental setting as a valuable approach for policymakers to acquire knowledge, develop evidence-based regulations, and facilitate a smoother transition process towards sustainability.