In the Netherlands, the automobile manufacturer Nissan has initiated a unique project to stimulate the uptake of electric vehicles (EV) for commercial usage. This project is called “Power to Amsterdam” and started by the end of 2014. In the project, Nissan has enabled entrepreneurs in the region of Amsterdam to drive the full electric e-NV200 for a period of 6 to 12 months. After this period, the participants can decide whether to purchase/lease the vehicle or to return it to Nissan. The e-NV200 can be used for passengers (max. 7 persons) and as van (loading space of 4,2 m3). The aim of the project is to increase the experience with EV. This is important from both a public (i.e. decrease air and noise pollution) and private perspective (increase EV sales) as well as to enhance knowledge in this field.
Digital mobility services have great potential to increase passengers' transportation options, improve their experiences and reduce exclusion. For example, they can facilitate access to information and support, and join transport modes together more seamlessly. However, these advantages will only be available to those who can access and use these services effectively. To facilitate the development of usable and inclusive services, information on the range of potential users' digital interface capabilities, attitudes and current use of digital services is needed. A population-representative survey examining these issues was carried out with 1010 participants in Germany in 2020. As well as self-report questions, it examined basic digital interface competence using simplified paper prototyping. The results are examined in terms of the characteristics of groups that are particularly vulnerable to either digital or transport exclusion. Older people (aged 65+), people with disabilities and people with low levels of education were found to have particularly low levels of digital technology access, use, attitudes and competence. Caution is thus required when rolling out digital mobility services. Non-digital alternatives are needed to ensure an inclusive service. When digital interfaces are used, they need to be designed carefully to be usable by and reassuring to digital novices.
Parents have a vital influence on the participation of their child with a physical disability. The aim of this study is to gain insight into parents’ own daily actions, challenges, and needs while supporting their child with a physical disability at home, at school, and in the community. An additional objective of this study is to refine the preliminary thematic framework previously identified in a scoping review.
