Analysis of Powertrain Types in Global Car-Sharing Services as an Indicator of Service Innovation
Car-sharing services have been experiencing dynamic growth in recent years as part of the broader transformation of urban mobility systems. Driven by increasing environmental concerns, the development of smart cities, and the growing demand for flexible transport alternatives, shared mobility has become a key component of sustainable transport strategies worldwide. Within this context, the technological structure of car-sharing fleets, particularly the types of powertrains employed, has emerged as a significant determinant of service innovation and environmental performance.
This study presents a comparative analysis of powertrain configurations used in car-sharing services across selected global regions, including Western Europe, North America, Asia, and developing markets. The research examines not only the current structure of the fleets but also their evolution in response to regulatory frameworks, urban mobility policies, and infrastructure availability. Particular attention is given to the influence of legal and environmental regulations (e.g., emission standards, low-emission zones, tax incentives) on the adoption of electric vehicles (BEVs), hybrid powertrains (HEVs/PHEVs), and the continued use or adaptation of internal combustion engines (ICE), including those powered by alternative fuels such as LPG and CNG.
The analysis incorporates both technological and institutional perspectives, focusing on the relationship between regulatory pressure and the pace of powertrain innovation within car-sharing fleets. In addition, different adaptation strategies of service operators are identified, reflecting varying local conditions and policy maturity levels. The findings suggest that while the presence of electric or hybrid vehicles often indicates a higher degree of service innovation, advanced ICE technologies can still play a relevant role in specific economic and infrastructural contexts. This work contributes to the ongoing academic discourse on sustainable mobility and offers a framework for assessing the innovation potential of shared transport systems in relation to their technical composition and regulatory environment.
Topic: Sustainability and global trends in powertrain technology
Author: dr hab. inż. Katarzyna Turoń, prof. PŚ
Co-authors:
