Evidence on e-scooter ownership and use in non-urban areas

Private e-scooters are under-researched, particularly outside urban areas. While shared e-scooters are mainly found in cities and are primarily used for short trips, private e-scooters appear better suited to replace long car trips across all regions, especially when integrated with public transport (PT). However, little is known about the ownership and use of private e-scooters, especially outside cities, due to data scarcity and the methodological challenge of reaching this dispersed population. We investigate the adoption of private e-scooters using the Diffusion of Innovations theory, drawing on a nationwide sample from Austria including both e-scooter owners and non-owners in urban and non-urban settings. We identify adopter characteristics using an ordered logit model. Results reveal contrasting relationships with travel alternatives: urban adopters own more cars, while non-urban adopters own more PT subscriptions and fewer cars compared to non-users in the respective areas. This indicates greater potential for car substitution in non-urban settings. Across both areas, typical adopters are middle-aged male workers with moderate educational levels who perceive e-scooters as practical and enjoyable. Usage patterns, derived from a travel diary of e-scooter owners, align with expectations: non-urban residents are more likely to use their e-scooter as PT feeders and car substitutes. Their lower car ownership rate compared to non-users will cause substantial additional savings. These findings underscore the need for targeted strategies to promote private e-scooter adoption and integration with PT, particularly in non-urban areas, to foster a more inclusive and less car-dependent transport system.