E-scooter multi-riding: analyzing riding practices in Helsinki, Finland

Shared electric scooters (e-scooters), have significantly transformed the way people commute in European urban areas. These e-scooters offer a convenient and fast mobility option, but they also raise concerns about safety and efficient use of urban space. Consequently, it is crucial to comprehend specific e-scooter riding behaviors, such as multi-riding, which involves multiple individuals sharing a single e-scooter. This research aims to investigate multi-riding, considering its extent, the age and gender distribution of multi-riders, the reasons behind this behavior, while considering the multi-riding frequency. Additionally, it assesses the perceptions of both e-scooter users and non-users regarding multi-riding. To accomplish this, a mixed-method approach, involving video recording observations and an online questionnaire survey, was utilized. The findings reveal that multi-riding is more prevalent in Helsinki compared to previous studies. The majority of multi-riders are young males. The main reasons for engaging in multi-riding include limited e-scooter availability, reliance on a single shared e-scooter app, and economic factors. Furthermore, both e-scooter users and non-users perceive multi-riding as a problematic practice. In conclusion, this study emphasizes the importance of implementing effective measures, including infrastructure improvements and regulations, to promote a shift away from car-dependent urban mobility systems and address the challenges posed by shared e-scooters.