CALIFORNIA: Linking Shared Electric Bicycles and Carsharing
There is limited research on the combined impacts of co-located carsharing and shared electric bikes, as a separate but complementary service to traditional regional bike sharing. This study seeks to build on existing research to better understand the behaviors and perceptions of individuals with a choice of multiple differently-priced transportation options at the same location: shared traditional bikes (regional bike sharing), electric bikes, trailers and/or electric cargo bikes, and carsharing. It also seeks to expand affordable mobility options to low-income members.
The study will test priced electric-assist bicycle sharing, along with electric-powered bicycle trailers, at locations adjacent to carsharing. The San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency and San Francisco City CarShare (CCS) would set an hourly price for the electric bicycles at 50-70% less than for cars, making the same reservation system available for both. By providing prospective users an electric boost to help them pedal up San Francisco’s hills, and electric-powered bicycle trailers to carry whatever purchases and other items that may need to be transported, the test would see how many carshare trips would be replaced with electric bicycle/trailer trips. Per discussion between FHWA, SFMTA, and TSRC, the project will shift to electric bikes only.
Implementation Funds Awarded
2013
Project Status
Expected Completion Date is 2018
April – June 2018 Update
The Transportation Sustainability Research Center (TSRC) recently competed the following activities:
- Summarized the responses for “before”, “after”, and “recent trip” surveys.
- Conducted preliminary activity data analysis.
- Began drafting the interview summaries.
- Began drafting the project final report.
From July – September 2018, the Transportation Sustainability Research Center (TSRC) expects to complete the following items:
- Continue survey analysis.
- Continue analysis of activity data and mode tracking data.
- Continue composition of the final report.
For More Information Contact
Mark Lui, SFMTA
Phone: (415) 701-4450
E-mail: Mark.liu@sfmta.com
