Experts predict that Dublin could transition to a car-free city within the next decade. Influenced by the recent pandemic and increasing global environmental awareness, cities like Dublin and Cork are expected to see a significant shift from cars to e-scooters and e-bikes.
Paul Hogan, e-mobility business development lead at ESB, envisions e-mobility hubs on the outskirts of these cities in 5-10 years. These hubs would allow people to park their cars and continue their journey using electric bikes or scooters. Hogan believes that the future of transportation is electric.
The Irish government aims for 1 million electric vehicles on the roads by 2030, supported by over 1,100 charging points across the island. Eric Wang, CEO of Wind Mobility, suggests that micromobility, including bikes and scooters, will significantly reduce private car usage, making cities greener and more enjoyable. Wang predicts that within 20-30 years, these devices could account for 70% of city center traffic.
Future urban planning will prioritize reducing car presence in city centers, focusing instead on quality space utilization and greening, leading to more sustainable and pleasant urban environments.