Work

Do shared e-mopeds contribute to reduce GHG emissions? Insight from Spanish cities

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The rapid growth of shared mobility services is transforming urban transportation. However, concerns have arisen regarding their environmental benefits and the potential substitution of more sustainable modes. This paper examines the environmental impact of shared electric moped services in Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia using a life cycle assessment approach based on 2022 trip data from an important operator. Additionally, a user survey was conducted to estimate the modal shift caused by these services and assess their net environmental impact. The findings indicate that production phase significantly contributes to the overall global warming potential of shared e-moped services, and offer mixed environmental benefits depending on usage patterns. The reduction in emissions across the three cities is minimal when trips are replaced by e-moped services. The paper suggests that enhancing performance in various stages, particularly in production, rebalancing, and extending the lifespan of the vehicles will help reduce their global warming impacts.

Source: Transportation Research Part D Transport and Environment

DOI: 10.1016/j.trd.2025.104706

Authors: Carlos Calan, Natalia Sobrino, Jose Manuel Vassallo, Sergio Alvarez

Institution: Universidad Politécnica de Madrid

Language: English

Topic: Transportation and Mobility Innovations

Subfield: Automotive Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Sustainable cities and communities, Climate action, Responsible consumption and production, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,450