Taxonomy and Definitions for Terms Related to Micromobility Devices
This Recommended Practice provides a taxonomy and definitions for terms related to micromobility devices. The technical report covers low-speed micromobility devices (with a maximum device-propelled speed of 30 mph) and the technology and systems that support them that are not normally subject to the United States Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards or similar regulations. These devices may be device-propelled or have propulsion assistance. Micromobility devices are personal transportation vehicles designed to transport three or fewer people. They are consumer products but may be owned by shared- or rental-fleet operators. This Recommended Practice does not provide specifications or otherwise impose requirements of micromobility devices.
Rationale: Standardizing definitions of micromobility devices and supporting terms serves several purposes:
• It will help reduce consumer and traveler uncertainty regarding micromobility, confusion about terminology used by the media, and discrepancies in terminology used internationally that contribute to public confusion and misperceptions.
• It will allow public agencies to clarify policies related to micromobility.
• It will help unify public and private sector definitions.
This document has been developed according to the following guiding principles. It should:
• Be descriptive and informative rather than normative;
• Provide functional definitions;
• Be consistent with current industry practice;
• Be consistent with existing literature to the extent practicable;
• Be useful across disciplines including: engineering, planning, law, and journalism;
• Be clear and cogent and, as such, it should avoid or define ambiguous terms;
• Address inconsistencies in overlapping work and competing definitions in the field of micromobility to achieve standardization; and
• Not provide any competitive advantage for any particular micromobility devices or supplier.