Cargo, Comfort, and Speed: Meet Scootility's Game-Changing Scooter | December 15th, 2023

Also, Volkswagen and Renault are collaborating for a cheaper EV, Google Maps is introducing a new feature for saving parking locations, and Huawei is in talks with Mercedes to use its software.

Issue [#217] - Every week, we deliver analysis and curation of emerging mobility news - post a job listing here!

Micromobility

Shared battery sustainability standards are lagging far, far behind | ZAGDaily

Cycling in the U.S. faces roadblocks, from scarce and disjointed bike lanes to cultural and political resistance. With 50 million Americans cycling, the nation struggles with challenges in adopting biking as a mainstream mode of transport, limiting its potential despite the undeniable environmental and health advantages | The Verge

Meet the game-changers of the motorcycle world—medium-power electric bikes. Striking a balance between affordability and eco-friendliness, models like the CSC RX1E and Ryvid Anthem are sparking a revolution. Beyond being a cool ride, they offer an affordable, green alternative for new riders, contributing to urban traffic solutions and making sustainability the new trend in the fast lane | Electrek

Antonio Loro, founder of Scootility, is introducing the "utility scooter," a versatile last-mile delivery vehicle that combines cargo space, agility, and comfort. With a payload capacity of 80 kilograms, swappable batteries, and weatherproof cargo boxes, the scooter promises to zip through congested streets with ease | ZAGDaily

A Helsinki study reveals e-scooter users resort to sidewalks due to inadequate bicycle lanes. The 12-week project, employing AI and computer vision, also tested an audio alert reducing sidewalk riding by 15%. The findings will guide e-scooter placement and city infrastructure improvements | LinkedIn

Product Launches & Updates

Chevy bids farewell to the original Bolt EV, opting to transform its successor, the Bolt EUV, into an Ultium-powered electric vehicle for 2025. While the compact Bolt faced challenges, GM's strategic shift responds to changing market preferences and aims for a promising EV revival | The Verge

Volkswagen and Renault are reportedly teaming up to create a budget-friendly electric vehicle priced under $21,500, targeting an annual production of up to 250,000 units. This strategic alliance aims to counter rising competition, including from Chinese EV makers, and signals a push by major automakers to make electric mobility accessible to a broader audience | Electrek

Ridehailing, Carsharing & Delivery

In a legal twist, a U.S. appeals court challenges the dismissal of a lawsuit accusing Uber of racial bias in its driver termination policy. The judge insists on advancing to discovery, challenging the notion that statistical evidence is premature. As Uber faces claims that its rating system discriminates, the court battle unfolds over the impact on non-white drivers | Reuters

As shared micromobility grapples with financial struggles and venture capitalists tighten purses, smaller cities face service withdrawal. The current premium approach to integrating micromobility with public transport also raises affordability concerns. Here, Zipidi proposes a paradigm shift, encouraging public transport authorities to lead, ensuring sustainability, innovative pricing, and a balanced shared mobility future | ZAGDaily

Buses in the U.S. often lag behind in speed and reliability, but the Bus Rapid Transit (B.R.T.) system is reshaping this narrative. With dedicated lanes, faster schedules, and rider-friendly features, cities like Richmond and Pittsburgh are investing in B.R.T. to revolutionize public transit. This cost-effective and flexible solution is not just about transportation; it's a statement shaping the kind of cities we aspire to be | The New York Times

Pipedream Labs debuts an underground delivery network in Atlanta’s PeachTree Corners. Autonomous robots navigate a 0.7-mile tunnel, bypassing traffic to deliver goods. The venture aims to enhance reliability and affordability, particularly for low-margin items | Modern Delivery

Investment & Deals

Swiss firm Metafuels secures €8m seed funding for its sustainable aviation fuel. The green methanol-based fuel reduces emissions by up to 90%, requiring no aircraft or infrastructure modifications. Metafuels targets a 100% synthetic jet fuel substitute by 2030 | Tech.eu

Despite a challenging mobility sector, e-bike firm Cowboy rides to profitability in 2024. With a gross margin above 40% on its Cruiser model, the company secures €13 million in financing. Exciting launches are anticipated for spring and summer 2024 | Tech.eu

Carsharing firm Getaround reports Q3 revenue growth of 42%, despite operating expenses surpassing gross profit. The company anticipates a 2023 gross booking value of $200-205 million, with an adjusted EBITDA loss of $68-70 million | TechCrunch

Cities & Policy

U.S. pedestrian fatalities, particularly at night, have surged since 2009, baffling experts. Theories point to distracted drivers, larger vehicles, societal changes, and poor infrastructure. However, the exact cause remains unclear, highlighting the need for safer road design and lower speeds | The New York Times

In a rare move, the California Transportation Commission delayed a highway expansion due to environmental concerns. The decision signals increased scrutiny of such projects and a need for discussions on sustainable alternatives to continual highway expansion | StreetBlogs Cal

New Products, Features, and Data Points

In a bid to instill confidence in the technology, the Car Connectivity Consortium has introduced a new certification for digital keys | The Verge

Google Maps for Android Auto is gaining a handy new feature that allows users to conveniently save their parking location upon reaching their destination | 9to5Google

Recent headlines paint a concerning picture for the U.S. electric vehicle industry. Carmakers express worries about growth, consumer demand appears to be dropping, and President Biden's tax breaks seem insufficient in driving EV adoption | TechCrunch

Huawei, known for smartphones and telecom, is discussing a potential stake in its vehicle software business with German carmakers Mercedes and Audi. Currently supplying software to Chinese OEMs and joint ventures, Huawei is eyeing further expansion in the automotive sector | Electrek

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