Lyft’s New Feature Aims to End Ride Refusals for Guide Dog Users by 2025 | October 25th , 2024
Grand Canyon University supports student micromobility; Movability suggests lifespan-focused e-scooter models; Beryl uses e-cargo bikes to reduce emissions.
Issue [#262] - Every week, we deliver analysis and curation of emerging mobility news - post a job listing here!
Attention Movements readers, Micromobility America, the world’s premier trade show for small EVs, is coming to Southern California (Costa Mesa) on November 14-15 for two immersive days of cutting-edge insights, executive networking, valuable commercial opportunities, and of course, opportunities to test ride all the coolest new electric bikes, scooters, boards, buggies, and more. If you're a past advertising partner of Movements, reach out for a complimentary MMA ticket! Not a partner yet, check out our media kit here.
The event will feature over 50 speakers from different areas of the alternative transportation universe, including micromobility company founders, journalists covering the industry, politicians and policymakers, investors, and more. Over 500+ companies are expected to join the event, taking part in presentations, product launches, award shows, test rides, networking events, and more.
Don't miss your chance to meet and do business with a veritable who’s who of industry titans. Register now.
Ridehailing, Carsharing, & Delivery
Tesla has been testing a robotaxi service in the Bay Area, allowing employees to hail autonomous vehicles with safety drivers on board. CEO Elon Musk plans a commercial launch in Texas and California next year, pending regulatory approval. Tesla’s Full Self-Driving software aims to operate “1000 times better” than human drivers by 2025. Musk envisions Tesla vehicles autonomously operating as robotaxis, marking a major shift for the company | The Verge
Lyft is developing a "service animal opt-in" feature to improve accessibility for visually impaired passengers who rely on guide dogs. This move follows protests highlighting discrimination against disabled riders, with calls for better driver education and a zero-tolerance policy on exclusionary practices. Lyft's new feature, expected by 2025, will allow passengers to specify service animal needs in advance, aiming to prevent ride refusals and promote inclusivity | TechCrunch
TeraWatt Technology Inc., based in California, has completed its first mass production facility in greater Tokyo, set to begin operations in September 2024. This facility will enable commercial lithium-ion battery production, launching in 2026, amid efforts to decarbonize vehicles and tap into a projected $300 billion battery market by 2030 | PRNewswire
Mapless AI partners with Aero Corporation, a major Avis and Budget franchisee, to pilot tele-operations for its Electric Vehicle rental fleet. They will assess applications like vehicle shuttling and curbside pick-up, emphasizing safety and efficiency. This innovative approach aims to revolutionize the car rental industry in the U.S. | Businesswire
Waymo is promoting its robotaxis as a support for public transportation by offering $3 credits for trips connecting to transit stops in the Bay Area. Critics, however, argue this approach could undercut public transit by increasing congestion and diverting passengers. Past research shows that ride-hailing often replaces rather than complements public transit, suggesting robotaxis might further strain city transit networks instead of enhancing them | Bloomberg
Micromobility
Grand Canyon University embraces a vibrant micromobility culture, with students using scooters, skateboards, and e-bikes to navigate campus. The university’s infrastructure supports over 13,000 devices, reflecting its commitment to convenience and efficiency for students. Enhanced safety regulations, including speed limits and dismount zones, address accident risks, and new parking options encourage responsible use. This micromobility integration enriches campus life, blending freedom, practicality, and a unique cultural identity for students | GCU News
Movability urges the micromobility industry to adopt a “commercial lifespan” model for shared e-scooters, assessing revenue and maintenance costs to improve profitability. Their research reveals that many e-scooters need significant maintenance earlier than expected, impacting operators' finances. Movability suggests refurbishing older vehicles for extended use and advises investors to consider lifespan in valuations, aiming to help stakeholders better understand sustainability and operational impacts in micromobility | ZAG Daily
Tempo has launched a Theft Protection service for bike and e-bike owners, featuring unique security badges, personalized recovery web pages, and up to $1,000 for unrecovered bikes. Partnering with Bike Index, the service costs $99 for three years, addressing theft fears that deter potential buyers, as noted by CEO Michael Keating | Tempo
Beryl’s use of e-cargo bikes has transformed on-street operations in cities like Norwich and Hereford. The bikes’ electric-assist motors and maneuverability reduce congestion and emissions, improving air quality. They efficiently perform tasks like battery swaps and repairs, cutting costs and supporting local businesses. By minimizing vehicle emissions and traffic impact, e-cargo bikes offer a sustainable, cost-effective solution for urban logistics, underscoring Beryl’s commitment to cleaner, more accessible cities | ZAG Daily
Product Launches & Updates
Stellantis plans to debut a “demonstration fleet” of Dodge Charger Daytonas with semi-solid-state batteries by 2026. These advanced batteries, built on Stellantis' STLA Large EV platform, promise lighter weight, greater energy density, and potential cost savings. Partnering with battery maker Factorial, Stellantis aims to achieve up to 50% more range for EVs. This innovation could later extend to brands like Maserati and Jeep, advancing solid-state battery technology in the industry | The Verge
Volkswagen's Scout Motors has added plug-in hybrid options to its upcoming Traveler SUV and Terra pickup, in response to an EV sales slowdown. These extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs) feature gas engines to recharge batteries while driving, addressing range anxiety and reducing costs. Set to launch in 2027 at around $60,000, these models aim to boost VW's US market presence, taking on American competitors like the Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler | Bloomberg
Ford’s 2025 Mustang Mach-E introduces a sportier design, enhanced tech, and a lower starting price of $36,495. Updates include a standard heat pump for optimized winter performance, a Sport Appearance Package with GT-inspired styling, and ventilated seats on Premium models. Additionally, Ford’s latest BlueCruise driver-assist system now automates lane changes. With these updates and a more competitive price, the Mach-E aims to strengthen its position in the U.S. EV market | The Verge
UK-based startup Spirit EV, launched by custom car maker RBW, aims to create classic-style EVs with modern safety and convenience features. Using expertise from building RBW’s Roadster and GT models, Spirit EV will help companies develop custom electric cars, offering components or full designs. With $18 million in funding, Spirit plans a U.S. factory in 2025. This approach allows affordable, low-maintenance EVs, appealing to classic car fans who want modern reliability | TechCrunch
Volkswagen's Scout Motors unveiled two rugged EVs, the Scout Traveler SUV and Scout Terra truck, featuring retro-inspired designs with modern tech. Highlights include up to 350 miles of range, optional gas-powered generators for over 500 miles, and Tesla-compatible charging. Built for durability, these EVs have high towing capacities and off-road capabilities. Launching in 2027 with an under-$60,000 entry price, Scout plans direct sales and will manufacture in the U.S | TechCrunch
Investment & Deals
MobilityVC has updated its offerings, as it secures new investments from major automotive LPs like Norway's Jæger Group. The early stage VC (formerly known as MobilityFund) now offers advisory services, SPVs / growth stage capital, and runs corporate venture capital programs for OEMs. MobilityVC's recent investments include ChargeEurora and Flowfox. | Substack
Electric motorcycle company Zero is raising over $120 million, having secured around $100 million from two undisclosed investors. This follows a $107 million round in 2022 from Polaris and Hero MotoCorp. The funding aims for expansion amid industry struggles, highlighted by Energica's bankruptcy and Livewire's financial losses | TechCrunch
Luup, a Japanese micromobility operator, raised three billion yen (€18.2 million), including a pioneering 1.5 billion yen green loan from Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation. This funding boosts its total to 16.6 billion yen. Luup plans to expand to 30,000 vehicles by 2025 and has over 10,000 stations nationwide | ZAGDaily
WeRide (WRD.O) raised $440.5 million in its U.S. IPO and private placement, reversing a trend of declining Chinese company listings after Didi Global’s delisting. Selling 7.74 million shares at $15.50 each, WeRide is valued over $4 billion and operates in 30 cities across seven countries, starting Nasdaq trading soon | The Verge
Joby Aviation is launching a public offering to raise up to $200 million for certification, manufacturing, and working capital, with an option for underwriters to purchase an additional $30 million. Urban air taxis will debut in New York, Los Angeles, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi, in partnership with Delta Air Lines and Uber. Additionally, Joby has a $55 million Department of Defense contract and has raised $2.6 billion to date, bolstered by a recent $500 million investment from Toyota | TechCrunch
Cities & Policy
Post-COVID, increased e-commerce caused a surge in deliveries, straining urban traffic and curb management. Meanwhile, remote work led to fewer peak-hour commutes but higher overall travel, impacting traditional transit services. With regulatory scrutiny rising due to safety incidents in emerging transport technologies, cities must adapt their strategies to embrace innovation while prioritizing public safety and sustainability. These shifts highlight the evolving dynamics of urban mobility and the need for responsive planning | The Cities First
Demetrius Crichlow has been appointed as the first African American head of subways and buses at New York’s MTA, where he has worked since 1997. He faces challenges of crime—eight murders this year—and fare evasion, costing $800 million annually, with ridership at 75% of pre-pandemic levels | Bloomberg
The FAA's ruling allows electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, including Joby Aviation, Archer Aviation, Beta Technologies, and Wisk Aero, to operate alongside traditional aircraft, introducing pilot training guidelines and flexible operational rules. This pivotal decision supports commercial air taxi launches planned for 2025 and reflects collaboration with industry leaders | TechCrunch
The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority plans a $2.5 billion investment in commuter rail for 2024-2028, aiming to improve services as ridership nears 80% of pre-pandemic levels. Transportation Secretary Monica Tibbits-Nutt and General Manager Phillip Eng emphasize electrification, including battery-electric trains for the Fairmount Line, prioritizing environmental justice | Smart Cities Dive
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