The global shared micromobility fleet is on the rise, reaching 27.6 million vehicles in 2024, and it's set to grow even more, with projections estimating 37.8 million by 2029.
A recent report from Berg Insight concludes that this surge represents a significant advancement in shared mobility services, which include short-term rentals of bikes, scooters, and similar vehicles.
As cities across Asia become more congested, the adoption of shared mobility devices like bicycles and electric scooters is gaining momentum.
Erica Rickard, IoT analyst at Berg Insight, commented, “The market continues to consolidate but has reached a more mature stage.”
This maturity is evident as operators expand their fleets to include a variety of vehicles, moving beyond traditional models.
In Asia, particularly in countries like China, the popularity of free-floating bike services is skyrocketing. Unlike traditional station-based models, where users must return bikes to specific locations, free-floating services allow riders to pick up and drop off bikes anywhere within a designated area.
This flexibility is particularly appealing in densely populated urban environments. As of 2024, the majority of the 25.7 million shared bikes worldwide are free-floating, with China leading the charge.
Furthermore, the stand-up scooter market has also seen rapid growth since its introduction in 2017. By the end of 2024, an estimated 1.8 million shared stand-up scooters were in operation globally.
Companies like Lime and Dott are making significant inroads in this sector, but regulatory frameworks vary widely, affecting how many scooters can be deployed in a city.
Telematics play a crucial role in the management of these micromobility services. Many operators are adopting advanced technologies for fleet management, user identification, and operational efficiency.
Erica Rickard
“Automation and coordination of operational tasks such as fleet rebalancing, battery swapping, and vehicle maintenance are crucial as micromobility operators focus on profitability." Erica Rickard
With increasing urbanisation and a demand for eco-friendly options, shared bikes and scooters are set to become a staple in the region's transport landscape.
