Micromobility is the ability to move freely using small, lightweight vehicles. These vehicles weigh less than 500 kg, their top speed is lower than 45 km/h (28 mph), and they are not powered by internal combustion engines. Typically, these vehicles have an electric motor, their speed is around 25 km/h (15 mph), and they are driven by users themselves. The most popular micromobility devices are electric and pedal-assisted bicycles and electric scooters. But they also include regular bicycles, electric skateboards, segways, electric unicycles, and other similar vehicles.
Micromobility devices can be in private use, but the term is mostly associated with shared services. Many companies offer on-demand rental of bicycles and scooters. As of 2021, there are around 2000 bike-sharing services available around the world. Scooters can be rented in more than 200 cities. These services are becoming a popular alternative to driving a car in the city but also for public transportation. With many cities encouraging biking and walking, the demand for micromobility services will probably increase soon.
