The green wave of micromobility is redefining the urban landscape not through electric cars, but thanks to more agile and accessible vehicles: electric bicycles and mopeds. These vehicles, ideal for short trips, are emerging as powerful solutions to reduce emissions and oil demand, surpassing the impact of electric cars in terms of sustainability and convenience.
Impact on oil demand
The growing popularity of electric bicycles and mopeds is not just a fad, but a trend that is having a real impact on global oil demand. With over 280 million of these vehicles on the roads (mainly in China) the demand for oil is reduced by approx a million barrels a day, i.e. 1% of the world total.
This is four times the current impact of all the electric cars in the world, a surprising statistic that overturns many of our beliefs about sustainable transportation.
E-bikes vs electric cars: an economic comparison
In addition to the environmental impact, electric bicycles and mopeds offer significant economic benefits. An e-bike or an electric moped have surprisingly low annual charging costs, around $20 for 20km traveled daily.
They have lower maintenance costs. Smaller dimensions. Factors that make micromobility an economical and sustainable choice, especially for short, daily trips.
The role of micromobility in reducing oil demand
The transition to electric micromobility offers a huge opportunity to reduce urban emissions. Studies in the UK on electric scooter users show a reduction of up to 45% in CO2 emissions compared to traditional means.
In the United States, it is estimated that if e-bike travel represented 11% of the total, transport emissions could be reduced by 7%. Data that shows the enormous potential of micromobility in contributing to the fight to reduce oil demand, and to tackle climate change.
Towards a more sustainable future
Electric cars will continue to play a crucial role, I don't mean to deny it, but it is micromobility that is the key to faster and more accessible change. With global oil demand expected to peak in 2028, the widespread adoption of these lighter and more efficient vehicles could positively speed things up.
For this reason, when evaluating electric transport options it is important to consider a mix of vehicles to meet different needs. For long or group trips, an electric car may be more suitable, while for daily commutes, an e-bike or electric moped offers a more agile and sustainable solution.
This diversified approach will not only reduce emissions and demand for oil, but will also improve the quality of urban life by decongesting traffic and reducing pollution. Everyone in the saddle!
