Lisbon Sets the Standard: How Flexible Scooter Regulations Boost Urban Mobility

A recent Deloitte study, in partnership with Bolt, reveals that lighter regulations lead to increased competition among operators, resulting in more affordable prices and a higher usage rate of scooters. This study, the first of its kind analyzing the impact of various regulatory models across 155 European cities, highlights Lisbon as a model of best practices alongside Düsseldorf, Germany.

Benefits of Flexible Regulations

The study indicates that implementing more flexible rules for scooters can significantly benefit users. Deloitte categorized regulatory models into three types: light (open markets with standard regulations), moderate (authorization regimes), and strict (public tenders). Findings show that light and moderate regulations foster greater competition, which leads to lower costs and increased usage.

Challenging Conventional Wisdom

Stijn Vandeweyer from Deloitte points out that while there is a prevailing belief in Europe that strict regulations are more effective for managing micromobility services, this study challenges that notion. He asserts that light and moderate regulatory models can provide the necessary control without hindering access.

Notable Examples

Lisbon and Düsseldorf are highlighted for their strategic mandatory parking zones, safety features, and special usage licenses that adapt to the service's growth. In contrast, cities with stricter regulations see users paying about 19% more per trip and making fewer trips per resident.

Frederico Venâncio, Bolt's micromobility head for Portugal and Spain, stresses the importance of promoting scooter use to create a positive economic, social, and environmental impact in the long run. He emphasizes that while Bolt operates under different regimes worldwide, the focus should remain on accessibility during the shift towards shared mobility.