In recent months, the shared transport sector has faced a number of major setbacks.
Startups once seen as pioneers in transforming mobility have gone bankrupt en masse. While recent bankruptcies make it clear that the sector is in a difficult phase, the need for sustainable mobility still offers opportunities. With the right strategies, shared transport can grow into an integral part of the Dutch mobility system. The key lies in cooperation between providers, governments and consumers, as well as developing a robust and user-friendly ecosystem.
Whether shared transport can survive in its current form is still uncertain. What is certain is that the demand for flexible and sustainable mobility will continue to grow. The coming years will determine the fate of this sector, which once started with great promises and ambitions. The Netherlands is on the eve of a mobility revolution. New technologies, changing business needs and a growing awareness of sustainability are transforming the way we move. Innovations such as electric vehicles, shared mobility and mobility apps are rapidly gaining ground.
But what does this mean in practice? An extensive overview of the top 10 mobility solutions that are currently redefining our country.
street scene
The rise of shared transport seemed unstoppable a few years ago. Electric scooters, shared bicycles and shared cars quickly appeared on the streets of Dutch cities. The idea was simple: sustainable and flexible mobility without the burden of ownership. However, in practice the business model appears to be less solid than expected. One of the biggest challenges is profitability. Many companies struggle to cover their costs due to high investments in vehicles, maintenance and software development. At the same time, low rates and intense competition ensure minimal margins. A recent analysis by KPMG shows that only 20% of shared transport companies worldwide make a profit, and the Netherlands is no exception.
In recent years, the way we move has changed significantly. Innovations and changing needs have led to various mobility solutions that focus on sustainability, flexibility and efficiency. Below is an overview of the top 10 mobility solutions that are currently emerging in the Netherlands.
flexible solution
1. Short and medium-term rental cars are becoming increasingly popular among companies. According to the Arval Mobility Observatory Mobility & Fleet Barometer 2024, 30% of Dutch companies now opt for this option. That is an increase of 13% compared to last year. Rental cars not only offer flexibility, but also allow companies to adapt their fleet to current needs without major investments. For companies that experience peak moments or want to respond flexibly to changing market conditions, this is an ideal solution.
2. The use of public transport is increasing, partly due to companies offering their employees public transport subscriptions. About 25% of Dutch companies support this option, thus helping to reduce traffic congestion and CO₂ emissions. This is an attractive option, especially for employees in urban areas, as trains, buses, trams and metros are often more efficient than driving.
bike sharing programs
3. Cycling remains a crucial part of the Dutch mobility system. Companies stimulate this by offering bike leasing or bike sharing programs. About 24% of companies already offer these options, and 37% expect to implement them within three years. Electric bikes even make it possible to travel longer distances, making cycling an attractive alternative for both short and medium-distance commuting.

In addition to the financial challenges, other factors also play a role. A major cause is the lack of regulation. In many cities, a proliferation of providers arose, which led to saturated markets and confusing situations for users.
4. Mobility budgets offer employees the opportunity to adapt their travel mode to their personal situation. Companies see this as an effective way to promote flexibility and at the same time stimulate sustainable behavior. Currently, 23% of companies offer a mobility budget, while another 13% plan to implement this within three years. The budget can be spent on different forms of transport, from public transport to electric bicycles and car sharing.
electric vehicles
5. The Netherlands continues to lead the way in the transition to electric driving. Partly due to tax benefits and strict environmental targets, more and more companies are switching to electric vehicles. The number of charging points is growing steadily, making EVs an increasingly realistic alternative. Electric lease cars are now being used by a large number of companies to make their fleets more sustainable.
6. Car sharing is a popular and cost-effective alternative to ownership. Platforms like Greenwheels and MyWheels offer both companies and individuals access to cars without the obligation of ownership. This not only saves costs, but also reduces the number of cars on the road, which is good for the environment.
Mobility as a Service (MaaS)
7. MaaS platforms are changing the way travel is planned and executed. By integrating different transport options into one app, users can easily plan, book and pay for trips. From public transport and taxis to bike and car sharing, everything is made accessible through a single digital solution. This makes mobility easier and more efficient, and lowers the threshold for making sustainable choices.
8. Employers encourage the use of public transport by offering corporate public transport cards. This reduces dependency on company cars and encourages employees to take the train, bus or metro more often. The cards are increasingly personalised, so that employees can plan and book their journeys efficiently.
9. Electric bikes have become an indispensable part of the street scene. With a growing number of leasing programs, companies are embracing this option for employees who have to travel longer distances. The e-bike lowers the physical threshold of cycling and offers an environmentally friendly alternative to car journeys over medium distances.
modern mobility
10. Technology plays a crucial role in the mobility landscape. Apps that provide real-time information on public transport departure times, availability of shared vehicles or traffic congestion make travelling more efficient and comfortable. They help users to make combinations of transport modes and thus stimulate more sustainable travel behaviour.
The diversity of mobility solutions shows that the Netherlands is focusing on a future in which flexibility, sustainability and efficiency go hand in hand. Employers and employees benefit from these innovations, which not only save costs, but also contribute to a cleaner and healthier living environment.
Despite the current challenges, there are indications that shared transport has a viable future, provided the concept is adapted. A crucial step is the consolidation of providers, allowing a smaller number of players to ensure better quality and more efficient use of resources. Mergers and strategic partnerships allow companies to exploit economies of scale and gain a stronger market position.
In addition, municipalities play an important role by offering structural subsidies and close cooperation, which can lead to stable and sustainable mobility solutions that fit within environmental objectives. The success of shared transport also depends on its integration into a broader mobility system, whereby ease of use is increased by seamless couplings with public transport and Mobility as a Service platforms. Finally, companies can strengthen their green image by investing in electrically powered vehicles and communicating transparently about the environmental benefits of shared transport, which increases the appeal to both consumers and governments.