Key facts
- Lime reported a 28% surge in e-bike and e-scooter journeys during London heatwaves.
- The surge in micromobility usage occurred on days exceeding 30C.
- Londoners are opting for e-bikes and e-scooters over public transport during heatwaves.
- Modern apartment buildings in London are causing unbearable indoor heat for residents.
- These buildings often feature large windows and sheer facades that trap heat.
- Some architectural styles in modern buildings make cooling impossible even with air conditioning.
London is facing significant challenges and shifts in behavior due to extreme heat. A recent heatwave has led to a notable increase in the use of micromobility options, with Lime reporting a 28% surge in journeys on days when temperatures exceeded 30C. This trend indicates a growing preference among Londoners for e-bikes and e-scooters as a more comfortable and practical alternative to public transportation during hot weather. The reliance on these services highlights a broader shift towards micromobility as a viable transit solution.
Concurrently, residents in modern London apartment buildings are experiencing severe discomfort due to indoor heat. The architectural design of many contemporary buildings, characterized by large windows and solid facades, is contributing to unbearable indoor temperatures. These features can trap heat effectively, making living spaces difficult to cool. In some cases, the design of these buildings makes cooling impossible, even with the use of air conditioning, leading to significant struggles for occupants.