Dr. Alexander Reynolds
Amsterdam recently made headlines with its announcement to trial new technology aimed at automatically reducing ebike speed in certain parts of the city. While the initiative sparked debate among the public, the goal behind this technology, known as Adaptive Speed Governance (ASG), is to enhance road safety for all users.
Rather than focusing solely on slowing down ebikes, the system, designed by Paul Timmer from the Townmaking Institute, utilizes a platform that integrates various layers of spatial information. This includes fixed locations such as schools and busy intersections, as well as temporary zones that may pose potential hazards. Real-time data on traffic conditions is also taken into account. By connecting to this platform via 5G, a module installed on the handlebar of an ebike can accurately measure the bicycle’s location and speed.
When approaching a busy zone, the module displays alerts to the rider. If the rider continues to maintain a high speed, the module sends a signal to limit or cut the motor, making it more challenging for the rider to maintain their speed. The intention behind this technology is not to police cyclists, but rather to make them more aware of potential dangers and encourage responsible riding.
The issue of ebike speed is particularly pertinent in Amsterdam, where half of all ebikes in the city exceed the legal limit of 25km/h due to modifications. These modifications not only compromise road safety but also create a significant challenge for law enforcement. Fat bikes, in particular, have become a concern in Amsterdam. These heavy, fast electric bicycles, often driven illegally, have raised calls for tighter regulations and law enforcement.
While remotely slowing down ebikes may raise concern about cycling freedom, alternatives such as implementing license plates, mandatory helmet requirements, and speed cameras have been discussed as potential solutions. Furthermore, the integration of ASG technology into existing ebike displays could provide a more accessible and effective means of ensuring speed compliance.
Amsterdam’s trial of ASG technology is not exclusive to the city. The Townmaking Institute will be conducting trials in several other European cities, including Munich, Athens, and Milan. The hope is that by exploring the unique environments of different cities, the system can be enhanced and applied more widely to improve road safety for all types of vehicles.
While the use of ASG in cars is still years away due to potential resistance from car manufacturers, the expansion of this technology into e-scooters and public transport is being considered. The Townmaking Institute aims to continue its efforts in developing mobility solutions that prioritize safety and efficiency on the roads.
The implementation of Adaptive Speed Governance (ASG) technology in Amsterdam highlights the growing concern over ebike speed and the need for improved road safety measures. The ebike industry has witnessed significant growth in recent years, with electric bicycles becoming increasingly popular modes of transportation in urban areas.
According to market forecasts, the global ebike market is expected to experience a compound annual growth rate of over 7% from 2021 to 2026. Factors such as the rising awareness of environmental sustainability, increasing traffic congestion, and advancements in battery technology are driving the demand for ebikes.
However, with the surge in ebike usage comes the challenge of ensuring the safety of riders and other road users. Modifications made to ebikes, such as increasing their speed beyond the legal limit, have become a prevalent issue in many cities, including Amsterdam. This poses risks not only to the riders themselves but also to pedestrians and motorists.
Law enforcement faces difficulties in addressing this problem, as identifying and penalizing modified ebikes can be challenging. This has led to discussions on potential solutions, including the use of ASG technology. By remotely limiting the speed of ebikes in certain zones, ASG aims to enhance road safety and encourage responsible riding without excessively restricting the freedom of cyclists.
While there could be concerns about the potential limitations on cycling freedom, alternatives such as implementing license plates, mandatory helmet requirements, and speed cameras have also been considered. However, integrating ASG technology into existing ebike displays could offer a more accessible and effective solution to ensure speed compliance. This technology holds promise in not only Amsterdam but also other European cities, with trials planned in Munich, Athens, and Milan.
The broader aim of the Townmaking Institute, which developed ASG technology, is to improve road safety for all types of vehicles. While ASG is currently being tested in the context of ebikes, there is potential for its expansion into other areas, such as e-scooters and public transport. This reflects the ongoing efforts to develop mobility solutions that prioritize safety and efficiency on the roads.
For more information about the ebike industry and road safety, you can visit the following links:
– ebiketrends.com
– safetyinmotioncampaign.org
