Shared mobility is a collective term for all means of transport that can be used by multiple users where the user is also the driver, but does not own it.
The Dutch government is actively committed to promoting shared mobility, a collective term for means of transport that can be shared by multiple users without ownership. This includes shared cars, shared scooters and shared bicycles. The Minister of Infrastructure and Water Management, Mark Harbers, has the House of Representatives informed about recent developments and plans in this area via an extensive progress letter.
An important part of the letter concerns the various commitments and motions of the House with regard to shared mobility. The ministry is working on, among other things, an action framework for shared scooters, whereby model texts for General Local Regulations (APV) have been developed and published. These model texts offer municipalities concrete tools for issuing permits and regulations regarding shared scooters. This initiative contributes to the harmonization of policy and provides a stable basis for market parties.
measures
In addition, work is being done on a top 10 of instruments to stimulate shared mobility. Research agency CE Delft has drawn up a list of 15 possible measures, which are currently being calculated to present a final top 10. This report will be shared with the House before the summer recess.
The ministry is also investigating how shared mobility can contribute to inclusivity and the reduction of transport poverty. €3 million has been made available to gain knowledge and set up meaningful pilots. These resources must contribute to a lasting improvement in transport options for vulnerable groups. The results of this research will be shared with the House at the end of 2024.
Work is being done on a clear, legally enforceable definition of shared mobility, which can distinguish between rental vehicles and shared vehicles. This process is supervised by CROW and KiM and should help municipalities in enforcing local regulations. It is expected that a first version of this definition will be delivered in the third quarter of 2024.
The collaboration program Natural! Shared Mobility (N!D) focuses on standardization, harmonization and knowledge sharing within shared mobility. The program, which has a duration of five years, is aimed at increasing the predictability of policy and improving the chances of scaling up. A baseline measurement has been carried out to measure the impact of the program and make adjustments where necessary.
Shared mobility is closely intertwined with other policy processes such as the mobility transition and the Passenger Transport Act 2000. A joint national approach to mobility is being developed, in which shared mobility is an integral part. The possibility of better connecting different forms of transport, including shared mobility, is also being explored. The House will be informed about the progress of this exploration at the end of 2024.
Shared mobility plays an important role in the Station Agenda, with a specific focus on the integration of shared mobility at stations. Together with NS Stations and ProRail, a vision is being developed to promote shared mobility at stations. In addition, work is being done on the rollout of mobility hubs, in which shared mobility plays a central role. €7 million will be made available for the rollout of uniform shared mobility hubs, of which 900 should be realized in the coming years.
vulnerable
The shared mobility market is still vulnerable and developing. Municipalities such as Amsterdam have recently issued new permits for shared scooters and shared cargo bikes, which influences the business cases of providers. The collaboration program facilitates conversations between providers and councilors to ensure the continuity of the market.
The Dutch government is actively committed to promoting shared mobility and integrating it into broader mobility policy. Through harmonization, standardization and knowledge sharing, we are working on a future-proof system that contributes to sustainability and accessibility. In the coming years, various projects and research will contribute to a better understanding and further development of shared mobility in the Netherlands.
