Overview
Shared e-micromobility use in suburban municipalities within the GTA is growing. This study analyzes three suburban municipalities, Ajax, Brampton and Mississauga, and shared e-scooters and e-bike use within them. The use of shared e-micromobility vehicles remains mostly occasional, with the majority of current users riding them less than weekly. Although mostly used for recreation, shared e-micromobility also supports commuting.
Study Purpose
This report aims to examine the impacts of the shared e-micromobility pilot in these three GTA municipalities, with a focus on both current and potential users of these systems. The study aims to answer two questions:
- Where, when, and why are residents living in Ajax, Brampton, and Mississauga using shared e-bikes and e-scooters, and are there differences in use across socio-demographic groups?
- What are the key barriers to using these shared electric micromobility options for transportation in a suburban community?
Methods
Survey-based research study Conducted in September 2024.
Key Findings
- Key motivations to use shared e-micromobility include enjoyment of riding and convenience but concerns about safety for non-riders in shared spaces and parking need to be addressed for wider acceptance.
- Current users of shared e-micromobility have used them at least once to connect to public transit, offering potential to reduce car trips and lower emissions.
- Shared e-micromobility is a promising, flexible option for sustainable urban mobility in these suburban municipalities in the GTA, but policy efforts must focus on improving affordability and safety to maximize its impact.
Funding for this project was provided by the Town of Ajax, the City of Brampton, and the City of Mississauga.
This report was produced by TransForm: The Transportation and Land Use Planning Research Laboratory at Toronto Metropolitan University.