Market size and growth rate
The market for micromobility (including e-scooters, e-bikes, e-mopeds and other lightweight vehicles) has experienced rapid growth in recent years. According to current estimates, the global micromobility industry will reach a market value of over USD 300 billion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 20-25% between 2024 and 2030.
The micromobility market is expected to grow to USD 300 billion by 2030, driven by a compound annual growth rate of 20-25%. By 2050, the market volume could reach the USD 450-500 billion mark. Key growth drivers include:
- Urbanisation and infrastructure investment: Around 60% of the world's population will live in urban areas by 2030. This increases the need for more efficient transport solutions as traffic density increases and road infrastructure reaches its limits.
- Sustainability goals and emission reduction: Most countries have ambitious climate targets (CO2 neutrality by 2050 or earlier) that affect public and private transport. Micromobility reduces CO2 emissions and is a useful addition for cities to minimise transport emissions.
- Growing investment in e-mobility and green infrastructure: Global investment in electric vehicles and charging infrastructure is already over USD 100 billion in 2024 and is expected to increase to around USD 300 billion by 2030, promoting the adoption and use of electric micromobility solutions.
- Technological innovations: Advancements in battery technology, IoT, and connected mobility solutions continue to drive the market as usage and maintenance become more efficient and cost-effective.
Market development by region
- Asia-Pacific: With a market share of over 50%, the Asia-Pacific region is the leader in micromobility. Countries such as China, Japan, and India are experiencing high population densities and rapid urbanization, which are driving demand. Asia-Pacific is estimated to account for over USD 200 billion of the market volume by 2030.
- North America: The USA and Canada are increasingly relying on micromobility as a solution to urban mobility problems. Supported by government subsidies for sustainable mobility and investments in charging infrastructure, North America could reach a market share of about 25% by 2030.
- Europe: Europe remains a key market due to strict environmental regulations and high demand for low-emission solutions. In the coming years, the European market for micromobility could grow to over USD 100 billion.
- Latin America and Middle East & Africa: These regions are experiencing moderate but steady growth and are benefiting from technological advances and international investment, especially in metropolitan areas such as São Paulo, Dubai and Johannesburg.
market volume of micromobility per region for the period 2000 to 2050. It shows the expected growth in billions of USD in the North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America and Middle East & Africa regions. Asia-Pacific shows the strongest growth, followed by North America and Europe, while Latin America and the Middle East & Africa grow more moderately.
Macroeconomic backgrounds and influencing factors
- Oil prices and energy costs: Fluctuations in oil prices and the increasing dependence on renewable energies make electrically powered vehicles more economically attractive, especially in urban areas. This development favors the switch to micromobility.
- Pandemic effects and remote work: The COVID-19 pandemic has changed mobility behavior. More and more people are working from home and using micromobility for short distances, increasing the need for flexible transport solutions.
- Subsidies and tax incentives: Numerous governments offer financial incentives and subsidies for e-vehicles, which is driving demand, especially for e-bikes and e-scooters.
Trends in micromobility
- Sustainability and CO2 reduction: Cities around the world are promoting environmentally friendly mobility solutions to reduce CO2 emissions and improve air quality.
- Electrification: The electrification of vehicles will continue to be promoted. E-bikes and e-scooters are gaining more and more popularity as they are both low-emission and practical.
- Sharing models: The micromobility market is significantly influenced by the growth of sharing services. In cities, numerous providers already offer e-scooters and e-bikes for short-term rental.
- Integration with public transport: Micromobility is increasingly being used as the last mile to public transport. Providers work closely with cities and public transport companies to provide multimodal transport solutions.
Vehicle types and their market development
Micromobility encompasses different types of vehicles that vary greatly in growth and use.
E-bikes:
The e-bike market is estimated to be worth about USD 50 billion by 2030 and is growing at an annual rate of 10-15%. They are particularly popular in Europe and Asia, as they are an emission-free alternative for short and medium-haul routes. E-bikes appeal to a broad target group as they are suitable for both commuting and leisure activities. Technological advances such as longer battery life and lightweight frames are driving growth.
E-Scooter:
E-scooters represent the fastest-growing submarket and will reach a volume of about USD 80 billion by 2030. They are popular in metropolises worldwide and offer an efficient solution for short distances. The use of e-scooters as a sharing solution in urban areas is particularly widespread. They require hardly any parking space and can be operated inexpensively. The biggest challenges are maintenance and safety, where IoT-based solutions and autonomous parking are being tested.
E-mopeds:
The market for e-mopeds will grow to around USD 20 billion by 2030. Especially in densely populated cities in Asia and Europe, they are gaining in importance as a flexible alternative. E-mopeds offer a higher range and speed compared to e-scooters, which makes them attractive for longer journeys. There is high demand in regions with high population density and fluctuating fuel prices.
Light vehicles (e.g. quadricycles):
Quadricycles and similar light vehicles could reach a market volume of USD 10 billion by 2030. They are popular in countries with limited access to automobiles (e.g. city centres). These vehicles appeal primarily to users who are looking for a more comfortable alternative to scooters. Thanks to their energy efficiency and low operating costs, they are an interesting solution for commuters in urban areas.
Key players
Leading companies in the global market include Lime, Bird, Voi, Dott, and Tier Mobility. These providers have gained a foothold primarily in large cities, but they are increasingly expanding into smaller cities and regions as well. Especially in Europe, local and regional providers such as Tier and Voi have gained strong market shares, while in the USA Lime and Bird dominate.
Technological innovations
- Connected vehicles and data analytics: Smart e-scooters and e-bikes are often equipped with GPS, IoT, and other sensors that collect data on driving, battery health, and usage. This data helps operators optimize operations and improve the user experience.
- Battery technology: Advances in battery technology enable longer ranges and shorter charging times. Replaceable batteries are an important feature because they allow for more efficient maintenance and shorter downtime.
- Autonomous micromobility: Research projects on autonomous micromobility aim to autonomously send e-scooters and e-bikes to the nearest charging station or maintenance station, which would be especially important for the sharing business model.
Challenges
- Regulations and legal requirements: Cities and municipalities are increasingly imposing strict requirements on the use of micromobility, especially with regard to parking and speed limits.
- Safety: Accidents with e-scooters and e-bikes have led to a discussion about safety measures. The use of helmets, speed sensors and protected cycle paths remains a hotly debated topic.
- Profitability: Despite the strong growth, many sharing companies are struggling with profitability. The high maintenance costs and the limited lifespan of the vehicles make it difficult to maximise profits.
Future Outlook
The micromobility market is poised for unprecedented growth over the next few decades, driven by urban challenges, environmental regulations and the demand for flexible mobility solutions. The cities of the future will increasingly rely on multimodal mobility systems, in which micromobility acts as a complementary solution to public transport. North America and Europe benefit greatly from subsidies and environmental goals, while in Asia, dense population and the trend towards low-cost alternatives are driving demand.
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