Closing the gap in urban shared mobility availability: Increasing accessibility in Amsterdam Zuidoost

Abstract

This thesis explores the role of shared mobility as a sustainable and inclusive alternative to car ownership within the context of the mobility transition, focusing on how shared mobility can bridge accessibility gaps, particularly in urban areas where shared mobility options are limited. Using the Multilevel Perspective (MLP), this research analyses the niche replacement potential of commercial shared mobility in relation to the traditional car-ownership regime. A case study in Amsterdam Zuidoost is employed to explore how shared mobility can contribute to an inclusive mobility transition, addressing issues of urban inequality and societal exclusion from sustainable transportation alternatives. Qualitative methods are applied to assess the interactions between three key perspectives: policy, individual, and business. The findings reveal a gap between the societal need for the mobility transition, the mobility needs of residents in Amsterdam Zuidoost, and the business opportunities for shared mobility providers, leading to low implementation potential. This research advocates for a shift away from commercial shared mobility solutions towards to more cooperative, community-based models, such as Mobility as a Commons (MaaC) to empower local communities, diversify mobility options and promote a more inclusive transition towards sustainable urban mobility.