What's Wrong with Micromobility Tendering? Urban Sharing’s CRO Offers Solutions | April 19th, 2024

Also, VinFast introduced its VF DrgnFly electric bike, Waymo began testing its robotaxis in Atlanta, and Rivian introduced a software update to improve EV charging reliability.

Apr 19, 2024

Issue [#235] - Every week, we deliver analysis and curation of emerging mobility news - post a job listing here!

Micromobility

Urban experts convened to discuss innovative approaches to street and curb management, led by Laura Bliss. They explored topics like changing consumer behavior, transit expansions, electrification efforts, and the concept of mobility hubs. Their insights showcased the evolving landscape of urban mobility and the importance of technology, policy, and community engagement in shaping cities for the future | VerdexChange

As the e-scooter industry evolves, Lime prioritizes sustainability with improved logistics and larger battery packs. Andrew Savage, Lime's head of sustainability, emphasizes, "It’s really important...that we walk the walk." Safety concerns persist, underscoring the need for better infrastructure. Yet, shared micromobility presents a promising shift away from car reliance, cutting emissions and promoting electric transit | Grist

The micromobility tendering process is flawed, argues Tom Nutley of Urban Sharing, as rigid KPIs and short contracts hinder industry growth. Nutley advocates for longer contracts, streamlined operations, and financial support to foster innovation and sustainability. He emphasizes the need for collaborative, flexible approaches that prioritize service usability over strict metrics to benefit both operators and communities | ZAGDaily

Veo's dedication to inclusive micromobility is evident through its focus on accessible vehicle design, particularly with seated, throttle-assisted options. By prioritizing community engagement and research, Veo aims to make micromobility accessible to all riders, inspiring innovation and policy support for diverse fleets that cater to the needs of underrepresented groups | ZAGDaily

Product Launches & Updates

VinFast introduces its VF DrgnFly electric bike to the U.S., inspired by Vietnamese culture and designed for American e-bike enthusiasts. With a sleek "flat frame" design and high-performance components, it offers speeds up to 28 mph and a range of up to 68 miles. David Duncan, VinFast U.S. Vice President of Sales and Marketing, underscores their commitment to electric mobility, marking a significant step in the company's global expansion | Electrek

Nissan is poised to unveil its latest addition to the affordable electric car market with the new Micra EV, riding on Renault's AmpR Small Platform and expected to boast up to 249 miles of range. This move underscores Nissan's commitment to cost reduction and innovation, aligning with their aim to achieve price parity with gas-powered vehicles by 2030. As Nissan stated, "We aim to reduce the costs of our new electric models by 30%," emphasizing the importance of battery advancements like all-solid-state technology | Electrek

Tesla has faced delays in Cybertruck deliveries, with some owners reporting issues related to the accelerator pedal. Despite lacking official confirmation from Tesla, users have cited concerns about the pedal getting stuck, leading to unintended acceleration. While such incidents raise safety concerns, Tesla has previously addressed similar claims, with regulatory bodies attributing them to user error | The Verge

Ridehailing, Carsharing & Delivery

Waymo robotaxis caused a traffic jam on a San Francisco freeway after encountering a road closure. While the incident lasted only 30 minutes, it highlights the challenges of integrating autonomous vehicles into urban environments. Despite regulatory approval, Waymo is prioritizing safe freeway operations in Arizona before advancing in California | TechCrunch

General Motors unveils home energy products, turning GM electric vehicles into mobile power generators. Available initially in select states, the $7,299 bundle includes a charger and V2H kit. The 2024 Chevy Silverado EV RST can power a house for 21 days. GM aims for bidirectional charging standard by 2026, addressing electric grid stress during heatwaves | The Verge

The 2024 Uber Lost & Found Index reveals fascinating trends in forgotten items, from clothing to live turtles and even a wizard woman. With Miami leading forgetfulness and Mondays being peak days for leaving luggage, it's a colorful snapshot of the quirky items riders have left behind. If you've misplaced something, Uber's guide can help reunite you with your lost treasures! | Uber News Room

Investment & Deals

Volvo and CATL team up to recycle old EV batteries into new ones, further reducing the carbon footprint of electric vehicles | Electrek

HyLight secures $4M for hydrogen-powered airship drones, offering precise data collection with advanced sensors and long-range capabilities | Tech.eu

Dutch mobility platform umob has announced its acquisition of MaaS Global, a Finnish company specializing in mobility solutions | ZAGDaily

Lime's £25 million investment in London boosts expansion and infrastructure, meeting rising demand after a stellar year. With record gross bookings of $616 million and a 500% growth in adjusted EBITDA, Lime plans further growth, welcoming 9.2 million new riders in 2023. CEO Wayne Ting emphasizes Lime's role in sustainable transportation. The investment aims to enhance service reach and operational efficiency, including new hardware deployment and parking infrastructure | Intelligent Transport

Chicago secures a $2M federal grant to improve walk, bike, and transit access along I-290. Aimed at repairing urban damage caused by the expressway's construction, the funding focuses on enhancing connectivity and safety for West Side communities. The Mayor's Office emphasizes community engagement and infrastructure planning, aligning with ongoing efforts to modernize transportation corridors. The grant targets improvements for pedestrians, cyclists, and road networks, fostering sustainable transportation options | StreetsBlog Chicago

Serve Robotics, backed by Uber and Nvidia, enters the public market with a $40 million splash. Debuting on Nasdaq under "SERV," it raised $40 million through a reverse merger with Patricia Acquisition Corp. Serve aims to expand sidewalk robot delivery, targeting $60-80 million revenue by 2025. With plans for R&D, manufacturing, and geographic expansion, Serve eyes significant growth, scaling from 100 to 2,000 robots across U.S. cities and partnering with Magna International | TechCrunch

Cities & Policy

Senators Blumenthal and Markey urge for stricter scrutiny of autonomous vehicles and advanced driver-assist systems, citing safety concerns. They call for comprehensive crash reporting, restrictions on driver-assist features, and reconsideration of vehicles without traditional controls. They stress that public roads aren’t testing grounds for potentially dangerous vehicles | The Verge

Incoming Congressional Bike Caucus Chair, Rep. Mike Thompson, champions cycling for health, environment, and community. Advocating for e-bikes and safe cycling infrastructure, Thompson sees bicycles as a solution for a greener, healthier society. He aims to continue the caucus's legacy of promoting cycling | StreetsBlog USA

UK e-scooter innovators defy regulatory challenges. Swifty Scooters launches road-legal e-scooter, Hilo EV enhances safety with AI lighting, Bo Mobility offers unique vehicle structure, Lavoie introduces one-touch folding tech, and Pure Electric reinvents e-scooter design for urban use | ZAGDaily

Brompton Bicycle supports a bill requiring safety approval for e-bikes and e-scooters' batteries in the UK. The proposed law aims to prevent battery fires, which have caused injuries and deaths. Backed by various organizations, including the National Fire Chiefs Council, it calls for stringent regulations and mandatory markings on lithium batteries. The bill seeks government support to ensure consumer safety and uphold industry standards | ZAGDaily

In fiscal year 2023, claims against the city for crashes involving city employees spiked by 14%, with settlements rising by 23%. Despite lower claim numbers, motor vehicle incidents remain the costliest for the city. Concerns arise over increasing payouts since 2015. Efforts include advocating for safer practices and reducing vehicle fleet size. Progress is seen in some areas, yet direct budgetary consequences for agencies remain unimplemented. Mayor Adams' administration emphasizes enhanced traffic safety measures | StreetsBlog NYC

New Products, Features, and Data Points

Google Maps introduces new features for EV drivers, offering precise locations of charging stations based on user reviews. Enhanced directions include plug types and wait times. In-car Maps will display nearby chargers with real-time availability. Road trip planning will suggest optimal charging stops based on charge levels. Rollout begins soon for vehicles with Google integration, aiming to alleviate range anxiety and simplify EV travel | Electrek

Rivian introduces a software update to improve EV charging reliability, utilizing data from its vehicle fleet to rank charger conditions. Users can now view charger ratings based on real-time data, aiming to alleviate range anxiety. The update reflects Rivian's commitment to simplifying EV charging and enhancing customer experience. Expansion plans include installing hundreds of DC fast chargers nationwide | The Verge

Despite missing federal funding, Tesla advances its electric big rig charging corridor plan. The project aims to enable long-distance electric trucking, but Tesla’s restructuring and Semi program delays pose challenges. Yet, customer interest continues to grow | TechCrunch

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