As the saying goes, “There are two kinds of people.” When the topic is shareable electric scooters, the line between “for” or “against” is clearly defined. Not many people are on the fence. A recent ASME article summarized the arguments for both sides very nicely. In fact, it might serve as a starting document for taking a fresh look at all the issues involved.
One of the key issues scooters have the potential to address is called the “last mile” or the “first mile,” or for most people both. Mass transportation only gets people just so close to their home or office. It’s the last mile that is the problem. So far, solving that problem means driving your own car and parking close to your office. Growing air pollution tells us that everyone driving their own car cannot be the long term solution. Shared electric scooters might not be either, however, it is an interesting alternative.
What I see is an opportunity. An opportunity for all disciplines of engineering, not only mechanical, working together with city officials and planners to solve the “last mile” problem. The long term solution might look very different than anything we see today, however these kinds of challenges always provide great pride in those who contributed to the solution. – Dr. Tom
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