UC Berkeley Transportation Sustainability Research Center

Shared mobility - the shared use of a vehicle, bicycle, or other mode - enables users to gain short-term access to transportation modes on an “as-needed” basis. Shared mobility includes carsharing, bikesharing, ridesharing, and on-demand ride services. It can also include alternative transit services, such as paratransit, shuttles, and private transit services. Smartphone “apps” are available to aggregate options and optimize routes. New ways of transporting and delivering goods also have emerged with the potential to change the nature of the package and food delivery industry. Shared mobility has had a transformative impact on many global cities by enhancing transportation accessibility, while simultaneously reducing driving and personal vehicle ownership. This white paper provides an introduction and background to different types of shared modes, as well as smartphone-based trip planning apps that can facilitate access to public transit and shared mobility services. It also notes where potential benefits of shared mobility could align with the new mission of the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans).