Shifting gears on sustainable transport transitions: Stakeholder perspectives on e-bikes in Toronto, Canada

摘要

Car-centric transportation systems are widely regarded as unsustainable. E-bikes are an emerging technology with potential to strengthen sustainability transitions. Little is known about the role of governance stakeholders in shaping e-bike technology uptake/rejection. This qualitative study draws upon theories of socio-technical transitions, disruptive technology and strategic niche management to interrogate transportation governance stakeholders' perceptions towards e-bikes and related prospects or barriers to enhancing sustainability in Canada's most populated, congested city. E-bikes possess niche benefits that help encourage socio-technical shift away from cars. Yet their greatest potential in strengthening transition pathways may be their ability to enhance seamless, multi-modal transportation through incorporation into transit hubs and shared mobility systems. E-bikes also pose negative disruptions that undermine their uptake. The range of models on the market warrant greater regulatory distinction according to unique characteristics and hazards. E-bike governance requires further coordination, and decision-makers need more data on usage patterns and modal displacement.