Shared E-scooter Usage in a Closed System Area: A Case Study of Chulalongkorn University

Abstract

Electric scooter rental services have been increasingly utilized in Europe, America, and Asia. In 2018, Thailand also began offering electric scooter rentals, with a trend towards expanding these services in closed areas, particularly within university campuses. However, there are no specific laws supporting the use of electric scooters, so their use in public areas is subject to the discretion of authorities. This research focuses on Chulalongkorn University as the study area, given that electric scooter rental services have been consistently available there since 2022, with a stable user base compared to other areas. The study area is divided into three zones based on their physical characteristics, separated by a major road: (1) The academic institution area - auditorium side, (2) The academic institution area - administration buildings and dormitories side, and (3) The Sam Yan commercial area. This research examines how the physical characteristics of these areas affect electric scooter rental usage behaviors. Data were collected from service providers, physical area surveys, and questionnaires, and then analyzed using statistical methods. The research focuses on three main questions: usage routes, zone crossing, and the number of users relative to the zone. The findings reveal that bike lanes are the most frequently used routes for electric scooters in both closed and public areas. The usage of roads is similar to bike lanes in closed areas, but sidewalks are significantly less used. In terms of zone crossing on public roads, electric scooter users prefer more convenient methods over safer ones, despite legal restrictions. Lastly, the number of users in each zone does not depend on whether the area is closed or public, but it is suggested that the presence of central and residential buildings tends to increase the number of electric scooter users in those areas.