Introduction
The Electric Scooters Market in 2022 is experiencing a substantial transformation due to a combination of macroeconomic factors, such as technological developments, government regulations, and changing preferences of consumers. The development of the battery and the electric drive is improving the performance and efficiency of electric scooters, thus making them more popular. Governments around the world are introducing stricter regulations and promoting sustainable mobility, thus making electric scooters an alternative to the traditional vehicle. In addition, the changing preferences of consumers for eco-friendly and inexpensive mobility are reshaping the market. These trends are strategically important for market participants as they navigate a rapidly evolving landscape and take advantage of emerging opportunities.
Top Trends
- Increased Urban Mobility Solutions
As a solution to urban congestion, more and more cities are adopting electric scooters. Paris and Berlin have already launched scooter sharing programs. The results have been spectacular: a reduction in traffic of 30 percent. The trend is forcing manufacturers to improve their products, focusing on the quality of the battery and the resistance of the body. As urban areas continue to grow, the demand for mobility solutions will only increase.
- Government Incentives and Subsidies
The Government is doing its best to promote the use of electric vehicles. For example, it has introduced the FAME II scheme, which offers incentives for the purchase of electric cars and electric two-wheelers. Sales have increased as a result, and in 2021 registrations of electric scooters are reported to have risen by 50 per cent. Such moves are likely to encourage further investment in the electric scooter market.
- Technological Advancements in Battery Technology
The electric scooters are getting better and better, with the help of the development of batteries. Today's lithium-ion batteries have a longer range and a shorter charging time. The latest electric scooters can be charged for 100 kilometers. It is expected that this trend will be able to attract more and more consumers.
- Integration of Smart Technologies
Among the smart devices that are being increasingly used on electric scooters are GPS trackers and app-connected smart devices. These can be used to track down the scooters and check their batteries. Such devices are already being used by companies like Gogoro, which is leading the way in the smart mobility field. There will be more developments in the future, such as the use of artificial intelligence to predict when the batteries need to be charged and to increase security.
- Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Initiatives
The electric scooter industry is being driven by the sustainable trend, with manufacturers focusing on the use of sustainable materials and production methods. For example, they are developing biodegradable plastics and components that can be recycled. This trend is in line with the sustainable development goals of the world economy, as electric scooters produce no emissions while in use. Future developments may include more sustainable production methods and increased efforts to recycle.
- Expansion of Charging Infrastructure
The development of a charging network is necessary for the growth of the electric scooter market. In the Netherlands, for example, the number of charging points in Amsterdam has increased by 40 percent in the last year. This should reduce the fear of range anxiety and encourage more people to use electric scooters. The future growth of the market will depend on the further expansion of this charging network.
- Rise of E-Scooter Sharing Platforms
E-scooter sharing platforms are becoming increasingly popular, giving users convenient access to electric scooters without the need to own one. Lime and Bird have reported strong growth in the number of users, with millions of rides taken in major cities. This is changing the way people move around cities and prompting manufacturers to develop scooters that are easy to share. Future co-operation between cities and sharing platforms may see further improvements in access.
- Focus on Safety Features
The electric scooters are becoming safer and safer. They are now fitted with better braking devices and better lighting. Sales of those fitted with a braking system have increased, thanks to the greater public concern for safety. The trend is likely to continue, since safety regulations will continue to be tightened and the design and manufacturing of the vehicles will become more and more complicated.
- Customization and Personalization Options
There is a trend for consumers to have their electric vehicles redesigned, and there are a lot of companies that offer different styles and functions. Color, accessories, and performance are now being offered. This trend has a positive effect on the development of brands and consumers. Customization is likely to be based on more advanced technology, such as 3D printing.
- Emergence of New Market Players
New entrants to the electric scooter market are emerging, especially in developing countries. The newcomers are bringing new ideas and designs, and are challenging established brands with lower prices. The result is that the market is becoming more diversified, and that new ideas are entering the market. Competition will be increased, and the quality of the products and services will be improved.
Conclusion: Navigating the Electric Scooters Landscape
In 2022 the market for electric scooters will be highly competitive and highly fragmented, with both established and new players vying for market share. Among the trends driving the market are the increasing preference for sustainable mobility, which is pushing the established players to innovation, while the new players will be able to leverage advanced technology. Strategically, the leading vendors are strengthening their capabilities in AI, automation, and sustainable mobility, which are becoming key factors in determining market leadership. The vendors that are most successful will be those that are most flexible in their offerings and can respond to changing customer preferences.