This Week in Urban Mobility

Welcome to This Week in Urban Mobility, your curated digest of the most important developments shaping the future of how we move in European cities. As an industry insider, I'm passionate about cutting through the noise to bring you the news, trends, and insights that truly matter for urban mobility professionals.

1. Zero Motorcycles Powers Ahead with $120M Fundraising Round

Zero Motorcycles is raising $120 million

Zero Motorcycles Inc. , the California-based electric motorcycle manufacturer, has secured $120 million in funding. The company plans to use the capital to expand its manufacturing capabilities, invest in product development, and grow its global sales network. This latest funding round aligns with Zero’s strategy to stay competitive in the electric vehicle market, where demand for electric two-wheelers continues to rise.

Amid a wave of bankruptcies in the industry, it’s refreshing to see a successful raise. However, it also highlights the reality that high-end electric motorcycles remain a niche within a niche, presenting ongoing challenges for growth in this specialized market.

2. Fossil Fuel Company Car Subsidies Cost EU Taxpayers €42 Billion Each Year

Fossil fuel subsidies for company cars cost EU taxpayers €42 billion every year - new study

A new study by T&E reveals that fossil fuel subsidies for company cars in Europe amount to €42 billion annually. The subsidies come from tax advantages that incentivize the use of internal combustion engine vehicles for private use. Countries such as Italy, Germany, and Poland contribute the most to these subsidies, with the report urging reforms to shift benefits toward greener alternatives like electric vehicles.

These subsidies highlight a missed opportunity for the EU to accelerate the transition to cleaner transportation, especially at a time when electrification is more critical than ever. Reducing tax incentives for fossil-fueled company cars could significantly drive demand for electric vehicles and contribute to climate goals.

3. E-Vans Could Replace Fossil-Fueled Fleets in Europe’s Capitals by 2030

E-vans: All of Europe’s capitals could be free of large petrol and diesel fleets by 2030

Another study from T&E reveals that by 2030, the supply of electric vans will be sufficient for all major EU and UK capitals to transition to zero-emission freight zones. The report suggests that cities implementing these zones can significantly reduce pollution, with e-van supply expected to exceed demand even under ambitious scenarios. Moreover, the economic and environmental benefits make e-vans an increasingly viable choice for companies.

This is a promising study, but let’s not just replace petrol vans with electric ones on a one-to-one basis. The van isn’t always the right choice for every situation, and a more diversified approach, including smaller vehicles like cargo bikes, could make urban logistics even more efficient.

4. Cargo Bikes to Lead Zero-Emission Urban Logistics in Dutch Cities

The Cargo Bike in Dutch Zero Emission Zones for Logistics

A study from the Dutch Cycling Embassy highlights the role of cargo bikes in meeting the zero-emission goals for urban logistics in the Netherlands. With at least 18 cities set to introduce Zero Emission Zones (ZEZ) by 2025, cargo bikes are seen as a practical solution for last-mile deliveries, reducing traffic congestion and emissions. The report emphasizes the need for infrastructure upgrades to accommodate the growing use of cargo bikes, which could play a significant part in replacing vans in dense urban environments.

This reinforces the point made earlier about electric vans: we shouldn’t just replace fossil-fueled vans one-for-one. Cargo bikes present a more agile and sustainable alternative for many urban deliveries, making them a critical piece of the zero-emission puzzle.

5. Separate Bike Lanes Are Non-Negotiable for Safer Urban Cycling

The Traffic Calming Effect of Delineated Bicycle Lanes

A new publication in Science Direct reviews decades of data on cycling safety, showing that cities with separate bike lanes consistently have lower rates of cyclist fatalities and injuries. The study highlights the substantial gap between what is known about effective safety measures and the current state of cycling infrastructure in many cities, where protected lanes remain sparse despite their proven benefits.

The tragic death of a cyclist in Paris is a heartbreaking reminder of what’s at stake. Separate bike lanes are not just a recommendation; they are a moral obligation for cities that value human life. It’s time to stop delaying and take bold action to implement protected cycling infrastructure across all urban areas. Enough is enough—lives depend on it.

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