Electric Scooter Usage in the U.S.: How Popular are E-Scooters Among Americans?

As urban transportation continues to evolve, electric scooters have rapidly emerged as a popular and convenient mode of transportation in many cities across the United States. However, determining the exact percentage of Americans who utilize electric scooters is not a straightforward task, given the regulatory complexities, the recent advent of the market, and the seasonal factors affecting ridership patterns.

Reports from the National Association of City Transportation Officials (NACTO) provide some insight into electric scooter usage in the country. According to a 2019 NACTO study, electric scooters witnessed a significant surge in overall ridership, with 86 million trips taken on shared e-scooters and e-bikes in 2018 and 2019. This notable increase in ridership suggests a rising trend of Americans adopting electric scooters for daily commutes and recreational purposes. While it is difficult to pinpoint the precise percentage, this data demonstrates a growing interest in this mode of transportation.

One important factor to consider when discussing electric scooter usage is the regulatory landscape surrounding electric scooters in various cities and states. Regulations pertaining to e-scooter sharing programs and the legality of personal e-scooter use vary considerably by region, making a nationwide percentage difficult to calculate. Some cities, like New York and Los Angeles, have embraced e-scooters, with sharing programs reporting substantial ridership figures. In contrast, other cities like San Francisco, have limited the overall growth of e-scooter sharing programs to mitigate potential safety and infrastructure concerns.

Seasonality is another essential aspect to keep in mind when looking at electric scooter usage in the United States. In many parts of the country, usage is likely to be considerably lower during winter months due to weather conditions that make e-scooter use less viable and safe.

In conclusion, while the exact percentage of Americans utilizing electric scooters is not easy to quantify, the significant increase in ridership in recent years indicates a growing adoption of this mode of transport. Factors such as regional regulations and seasonality further contribute to understanding the overall landscape of electric scooter usage in the United States.