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. Pony Secures €23M to Drive Sustainable Mobility Across France
pony , the French micromobility startup, has raised €23 million to expand its fleet of shared e-bikes and e-scooters. With the aim of becoming the leading shared-bike operator in France, the company is focused on building a sustainable urban transport system. This funding will fuel its growth across France and beyond, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of city commuting.
Co-founder and COO Clara Vaisse 's leadership has been instrumental in driving forward a bold vision for sustainable urban mobility. This investment strengthens their position as a key player in the evolving landscape of eco-friendly transport.
2. Paris to Gradually Reduce Speed Limit on the Périphérique to 50 km/h
Starting in October, Paris will gradually reduce the speed limit on its Périphérique from 70 km/h to 50 km/h, aiming to improve air quality and reduce noise pollution. Mayor Anne Hidalgo ’s initiative has received support from health and environmental groups, who emphasize the potential benefits for the 500,000 residents living near the ring road. However, regional officials and many commuters are concerned that the move could worsen traffic congestion, especially for the 80% of drivers coming from outside the city. Some argue for alternative solutions, such as noise-reducing asphalt, instead of a speed reduction.
Many cities have shown that reducing speed limits in and around urban areas leads to environmental improvements with minimal delays for commuters. Parisian e-moped drivers, who already benefit from free parking , may actually find their routes through the city faster, especially if they're allowed access to the Périphérique under these new conditions.
3. Madrid Scraps Low Emission Zones in a Surprising Reversal of Progress
领英推荐
The Superior Court of Justice of Madrid (TSJM) has annulled the low emission zones in the city center, which were designed to reduce pollution by restricting access for high-emission vehicles. The ruling came after appeals that argued these zones limited the freedom of movement. While the zones had shown promise in cutting down pollution and traffic congestion, the court’s decision has put their future in jeopardy, sparking debates over the balance between environmental protection and legal limitations.
This decision is a clear backward step, particularly when so many cities worldwide are proving how effective low emission zones can be for reducing urban pollution and improving air quality. It’s especially contradictory following Madrid’s recent announcement of a €40 million investment into alternative mobility options like e-mopeds and e-bikes. Such investments signal progress, but removing the low emission zones undermines the city’s broader sustainability goals. Madrid risks losing momentum while other cities are showing what’s possible with stronger environmental measures.
4. Eurostar Threatens to Halt Dutch Services Amid Station Concerns
Eurostar may suspend its services to the Netherlands starting in 2025 due to the extensive renovations planned for Amsterdam Central Station. These renovations would remove the dedicated space needed for border and security checks for international trains. Eurostar has expressed concern over the lack of an alternative solution during the seven-year construction period. Dutch authorities are exploring options, but no agreement has been reached, leaving the future of the high-speed link between London and Amsterdam in jeopardy.
Eurostar must stay, but this situation highlights the need for improved infrastructure to support multiple high-speed rail connections. The Netherlands should prioritize making its rail system ready for both local and international operators, ensuring sustainable and competitive high-speed options in the future.
5. Study Shows European Cities Lead the Way in Walkability and Livability
A recent study has found that European cities are significantly more walkable and livable than their American counterparts, thanks to better urban planning and infrastructure geared towards pedestrians and sustainable mobility. The research, published in Nature Magazine , highlights how cities like Paris, Barcelona, and Milan have successfully adopted the 15-minute city model, making essential services easily accessible by foot or bike. Meanwhile, many U.S. cities struggle with car dependency and sprawling urban designs that hinder walkability and accessibility.
This study underscores the growing global success of the 15-minute city concept, where people can meet most of their daily needs within a short walk or bike ride. European cities are showing that prioritizing pedestrians over cars leads to more vibrant, healthier communities.
Interested in the future of urban mobility? Let's connect! Subscribe to my LinkedIn newsletter for a mix of news, analysis, and conversations on how we can build smarter, more livable cities across Europe.