Choosing a Last Mile Transportation

What is last mile transportation?

Last mile transportation refers to the method you use during the final distance traveled on your way to work, school or an event. Most commonly, the last mile factor is present when you use public transit as your primary mode of transportation, but the system doesn't reach all the way to your desired destination. Whether it consists of a walk from your home to the subway station or from the bus stop to your workplace, this scenario mainly occurs in cities and large towns where traffic congestion is a drawback when you need to be in a certain place at a defined time. Personal electric vehicles (PEVs) offer a convenient solution to that challenging last-mile journey.

Benefits of PEVs over public transport or your own vehicle

Public transport is a boon to many people, but it simply doesn't offer the same individual convenience you could have with an e-scooter or other personal electric vehicle. With your own PEV you decide the starting time of your journey, giving you greater autonomy. It's easy to calculate the time you'll get to your destination without considering the public transportation schedule or delays caused by heavy vehicle traffic. You ride alone on your personal vehicle, offering more comfort than crowding in next to other commuters. Owning your own e-vehicle ensures you know that your means of transportation is clean and hygienic.

There are many advantages of using PEVs for city travel rather than your own vehicle. One of the top ones is financial cost. Running and maintaining a car is expensive. The initial cost of an electric bicycle may be relatively high, but running costs are low. Gas-powered engines on autos emit fumes that increase global warming, but the energy for PEVs is generally clean. Rideables, such as e-scooters and e-bikes, are easy to control and you don't need to get a license to drive one in most municipalities. Be sure to check your city regulations first.

Portability is important

You can carry e-scooters and foldable e-bikes in elevators, up and down stairs and, providing your city transit system allows it, onto buses and subway trains. This allows you to switch modes of transportation with ease, all while keeping your PEV with your person. Greater portability also offers a higher degree of flexibility when storing your rideable in your apartment or placing it under or near your desk at work. Some business or university campuses can be extensive, but you can use your e-scooter to get around between buildings, allowing you to arrive at your lecture or meeting on time. The ability to store your rideable in a secure location when not in use is also important, as it ensures your investment remains safe. Investing in a carry bag may also be a good idea as it allows you to take your rideable with you easily.

Another class of portable rideables is hoverboards. These do have a bit of a learning curve as you acquire riding skills, but they're simple to carry and store.

Carrying gear when traveling on a PEV to work

If the main use for your e-scooter or other electric rideable is to travel that last mile to work, you want to make sure you have the appropriate peripheral gear. Many find a laptop backpack to be an essential accessory. Because you carry it on your back, it's easy to balance as you ride while the padding properly protects your most necessary tool. Some laptop bags are big enough to hold additional electronic devices, such as tablets and phones, and even have extra pockets for your lunch box and water bottle.

Safety is paramount

Safety is the greatest consideration when using an e-scooter or other rideable. When operating any vehicle, your own safety and that of other riders and pedestrians are top priority. Helmets and other protective gear, such as knee pads and elbow guards, are an effective measure to help keep you safe in case of falling accidents or collisions. Front and back lights will make other vehicles aware of your presence and a horn will also help warn riders and pedestrians, helping to prevent accidents from occurring in the first place.

Final thoughts on last minute transportation

The average speed of personal electric vehicles varies between 15 miles per hour (mph) and 28 mph, depending on the type and model. These rideables provide an efficient way to get to and from destinations and can even offer a little fun along the way. Get greater freedom of movement and avoid traffic jams by zipping in between vehicles stuck in gridlock. Above all, make sure to be considerate to other commuters.