Comparing use of e-scooters and e-bikes – two similar modes of micromobility filling slightly different roles

Abstract

Free floating dockless e-scooters and e-bikes are relative new phenomenon in the mobility system. Still, we have been able to learn quite a bit on how they are used. Studies typically suggest that both modes of transport are used for short to medium range trips. But also, that there are differences in usage pattern, with e-scooter users being somewhat younger. Does e-scooters and e-bikes fill different roles in the urban mobility system? To answer this question, we utilise the experience in the city of Drammen as a case. In this city, both e-scooters and e-bikes have been offered in parallel. That means that the services were offered at the same time, in the same geographical area, through the same app and with identical pricing. As a result, the main variance between the services is likely to be explained by the physical characteristics of the mode. To analyse use we utilise data collected automatically from the vehicles, mainly GPS on trip start, stop, distance, including anonymised user IDs. We find that e-scooters have higher utilisation rates, in terms of trips per vehicle per day, are used for shorter distances, and at lower average speeds than e-bikes. E-bikes are used more for longer trips, and for trips to or from higher altitudes. However, we find that the areas served by both modes share similar characteristics in terms of origin and destinations.