Assessment of the sustainability of private micromobility vehicle introduction – electric kick scooters case

Micromobility vehicles are a relatively new and still under-researched mode of transport compared to most other vehicles. Most researchers suggest that, despite certain limitations, micromobility vehicles contribute positively to the development of the transport system. This study aims to assess the sustainability of integrating private micromobility vehicles into the traffic system, including the conditions under which such integration is sustainable. To address this objective, a comprehensive methodology was developed to assess the impacts on traffic safety, carbon dioxide emissions, and direct user costs. The methodology includes a case study analysis in which private micromobility vehicles replace trips previously conducted by passenger cars, private bicycles, buses, and walking. This approach enables stakeholders to determine whether adopting private electric kick scooters and other private micromobility vehicles is sustainable under specific circumstances. Additionally, the methodology allows stakeholders to identify areas for improvement to maximize the potential benefits of their implementation. The methodology was practically applied to the case of private electric kick scooters across 12 countries. The results of the analysis were used to estimate the conditions necessary for the sustainable introduction of electric kick scooters. The analysis across 12 countries indicates that, under current conditions, the introduction of electric kick scooters into traffic is not sustainable. Currently, the greatest barrier to the sustainable introduction of private electric kick scooters is safety concerns. Stakeholders should aim to improve the safety performance of electric kick scooter riders by approximately 30–65%. Additionally, it was concluded that the most favorable outcomes from integrating electric kick scooters into traffic are expected in areas characterized by: an ageing passenger car fleet, high public transport costs, high traffic safety levels, and sustainable electricity production.