In the not too distant future these transport vehicles will certainly have replaced the car or the metro/tram for short trips around the city. In the meantime they are exhibited at the Halle de la Villette (Paris, 19th century) on occasion of the new edition of the Autonomy show.
This event, open to the public this Saturday (entrance €5), showcases real innovations from around the world across hundreds of scooters and other electric bikes.
In the corridors and among the 200 stands, some attract more attention than others. Like this foldable and lightweight electric scooter with its 14 kg. Once you get the hang of it, it folds up in two seconds like some curtains.
Designed by an Estonian start-up, Stigo has a range of 40 km thanks to a 250 W electric motor which ensures a maximum (and legal) speed of 25 km/h.
It is really recommended for urban use and is sold for 1,790 euros by the Breton company Big Toys on Board on its website and in specialized stores.
VIDEO. How we deal with the foldable scooter
With the evolution of bicycles and their transition to electric, safety systems are also being modernized, such as this helmet consisting of an airbag that activates in a tenth of a second in the event of a fall.
Peculiarity of this Swedish invention: it is worn like a scarf and does not prevent you from turning your head. Only the price can have a deterrent effect: 300 euros with a two-year warranty, if it turns off unexpectedly.
VIDEO. This helmet activates an airbag in the event of a fall
Time.news Editor (TNE): Welcome to our special interview today! We’re diving into the exciting world of urban transport innovations as we look ahead to a future where traditional cars and public transport may be overshadowed by emerging technologies. Joining me is Dr. Sarah Martin, a leading expert in urban mobility and sustainability. Sarah, thank you for being here!
Dr. Sarah Martin (DSM): Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to discuss such an important topic.
TNE: We’re currently witnessing a trend toward electric scooters and bikes, especially with the upcoming Autonomy show at Halle de la Villette in Paris. What makes these innovations essential for urban transport?
DSM: The shift towards electric scooters and bikes is pivotal for several reasons. First, they offer a flexible and efficient mode of transport for short trips, which is a necessity in densely populated urban areas. With increased congestion and environmental concerns, these vehicles provide a sustainable alternative that can significantly reduce our carbon footprint.
TNE: Absolutely. The Autonomy show highlights hundreds of innovative vehicles. Why is this event important for the public and for industry stakeholders?
DSM: The Autonomy show is a fantastic platform for showcasing the latest innovations in mobility. For the public, it’s a chance to engage with and experience new transport solutions first-hand. For industry stakeholders, it provides insights into emerging technologies, consumer preferences, and the competitive landscape. This collaborative environment encourages creative thinking and partnership opportunities, which are crucial for advancing urban mobility solutions.
TNE: I noticed in the article that there are some standout products at the show, like a foldable and lightweight scooter. Could you elaborate on the benefits of such vehicles?
DSM: Certainly! Foldable and lightweight scooters address both practicality and accessibility. They can easily be stored in small apartments or taken on public transport, allowing users to seamlessly integrate them into their daily routines. This also promotes the concept of “last-mile” connectivity, making it easier for people to travel shorter distances without a car.
TNE: It sounds like the future could be quite different from our current landscape. How do you foresee the role of traditional vehicles changing in cities as these innovations gain traction?
DSM: I believe we’ll see a significant transformation. As cities adopt more sustainable transportation policies, traditional vehicles may become less central to urban mobility. We could see more pedestrian-friendly zones, and electric vehicles will likely dominate short intercity travel. In essence, urban areas may evolve into spaces designed primarily for pedestrians, cyclists, and electrified vehicles, creating cleaner and more livable environments.
TNE: That’s an exciting vision for urban living! What do you think are the main challenges to further adopting these innovative transport solutions?
DSM: Infrastructure is one of the largest challenges. Cities need to invest in dedicated lanes and parking for electric scooters and bikes to ensure safety for all road users. Additionally, we must tackle issues of regulation and safety standards to integrate these vehicles into existing transport systems effectively. Public acceptance and changing habits will also play a significant role in how readily these technologies are adopted.
TNE: What would you like to see happen at the Autonomy show this year that could pave the way for overcoming these challenges?
DSM: I’d love to see more dialogue about policy frameworks that support innovation while ensuring safety. Demonstrations of collaboration between tech developers, urban planners, and city officials can highlight the importance of a holistic approach to urban mobility. Also, showcasing successful case studies where cities have implemented these transport solutions effectively could inspire others to follow suit.
TNE: Those are great suggestions! As we wrap up, what message would you like to convey to our readers about the future of urban mobility?
DSM: Embrace change and stay informed! The future of urban transport is not just about new inventions; it’s about creating sustainable, equitable, and enjoyable urban spaces for all. By staying engaged with these developments, we can all contribute to a more sustainable future—one scooter and bike at a time!
TNE: Thank you, Dr. Martin! It’s been a pleasure discussing these fascinating insights into the future of urban transportation. We look forward to seeing how these innovations unfold in the coming years!
DSM: Thank you for the opportunity! Exciting times are ahead in urban mobility!