Electric bikes and mopeds are cutting demand for oil more than electric cars

2 days ago

Short car trips under 10km contribute significantly to emissions, pollution, and fuel costs, especially in wealthier countries like Australia and the US.
Electric bikes and mopeds (electric micromobility) are more cost-effective and environmentally friendly for short trips than electric cars, displacing four times more oil demand globally.
In 2023, electric two- and three-wheelers (280 million) vastly outnumbered electric cars (20 million), reducing oil demand by ~1 million barrels per day.
While EVs are greener than petrol cars, they still require significant electricity, rare earth elements, and road space, with high upfront costs.
E-bikes and mopeds are cheaper to run (e.g., ~$20/year for a 20km daily commute) and ideal for short urban trips, reducing emissions by up to 45% compared to cars.
Micromobility can solve the 'last kilometer' problem in public transport and, if expanded to 11% of trips, could cut transport emissions by 7%.
Global oil demand is projected to peak in 2028, with electric micromobility accelerating the decline faster than EVs due to affordability and adoption rates.

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