Combatting Congestion 2025

data via standardized open-source mobility data formats such as the Mobility Data Specification (MDS). This platform led to a bilateral exchange of information, such as data on the number of e-scooter trips, and information on geofenced regulations including parking zones and curbsides from city administration. Data-sharing via Cityscope continued to be part of normal operations in the City of Stockholm during 2022.33 Impact and key takeaways In Stockholm, utilizing a third-party platform for data sharing was instrumental in overseeing e-scooter operators’ adherence to regulations. Through this platform, officials conducted a thorough analysis of e-scooter movements, ensuring compliance with parking and speed regulations. Additionally, this data facilitated trend analysis, aiding in infrastructure planning for a safer and more cohesive mobility environment in the city. Comparisons of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) between Stockholm and other cities and between operators were conducted, linking complaint levels to fleet sizes. Access to the data-sharing platform also facilitated operators to constructively engage with the city, ensuring compliance with regulations.34 One of the difficulties encountered was the inadequate precision of shared e-scooter location data. This lack of accuracy poses challenges for authorities seeking to enforce regulations in narrow areas and levy fines on operators based solely on parking violation information. Moreover, operators faced obstacles in controlling speed near restricted zones due to limitations in positioning accuracy.35The above-gained insights resulted in a new form of permits in 2021 for e-scooter rentals, imposing caps for each operator on the number of electric scooters operated in the city and annual charges for each operator. Various other laws, such as prohibition of parking on pavements or cycle paths and mandating that e-scooters be parked solely in designated parking areas, came into effect. These laws make e-scooters equivalent to bicycles with regards to road traffic regulations.36 These new regulations have helped to deliver a better-managed, more consistent experience with e-scooters in the city which avoid clutter on streets, reducing conflict with pedestrians and other street space demands. While there is some evidence showing that scooter use may have declined in some instances in Stockholm since the introduction of parking regulations, evidence also shows high support for the changes to scooter management and continued use of the scooters.37 E-scooters present a promising solution to urban congestion, offering a convenient means of first- and last-mile transport to complement public transport. However, addressing challenges such as irresponsible parking and reckless speeds is crucial for realizing its full potential. Optimizing micromobility fleet size through measures such as managing operations and enforcing strict permit criteria can significantly improve traffic flow and enhance public safety. Data-sharing platforms enable transparency and informed decision-making, supporting effective infrastructure planning and regulation enforcement. Policy-makers, operators and planners in tandem must collaborate to successfully manage and encourage novel shared mobility solutions such as e-scooters to pave the way for a more efficient, connected mobility system. Combatting Congestion: How Cities and Companies are Innovating First- and Last-Mile Transport 13