Mobility in motion: economy, society, and sustainability in transformation.

Mobility has historically been a driving force of change, shaping how we work, live, and connect with the world. Today, this impact is more evident than ever, with a profound influence in three key areas: the economy, society, and sustainability. Mobility is not just a means of transport; it is a fundamental pillar that structures the economy, society, and our environment. With the rapid technological transformation and the urgency of addressing climate challenges, its impact is at the center of the global debate. Understanding how it affects our lives in these three areas allows us to appreciate its relevance and project how it will evolve in the coming decades.

1. Economy: engine of innovation and growth.

Mobility is an essential pillar of the global economy, connecting people, goods, and services. It accounts for 5% of global GDP, with a considerable weight in job creation, especially in sectors such as automotive, transportation, and logistics. However, the economic impact of mobility is not limited to its direct weight; technological innovations and new business models are redefining the foundations of this sector.The mobility revolution as a service (MaaS ) is shifting traditional vehicle ownership in favor of more flexible models like carsharing, ride-hailing, and usage subscriptions. This not only reduces costs for users but also creates new economic opportunities for companies that offer connected services. On the other hand, electrification and the energy transition have opened markets for battery manufacturers, charging station operators, and energy optimization platforms. Furthermore, last-mile logistics, driven by the rise of e-commerce, has highlighted the importance of efficient and sustainable mobility. From drones to electric delivery vehicles, innovative solutions are transforming how companies deliver products, reducing costs and times, while enhancing consumer experience.

Several developing countries are experiencing truly remarkable growth in electric vehicle sales:

Source: RMI

2. Society: inclusive mobility and quality of life.

Access to efficient mobility systems is a key enabler of social inclusion. A person with access to reliable transportation can access better job, educational, and social opportunities, reinforcing cohesion and collective well-being. However, inequalities in mobility still exist, especially in rural areas or marginalized communities where transport options are limited or nonexistent. Digitalization and advances in smart mobility offer solutions for these gaps. For example, applications that optimize public transport routes or facilitate access to shared vehicles can transform the accessibility of millions of people. Likewise, intermodal mobility systems allow users to combine different types of transportation more efficiently, maximizing their time and minimizing costs. Mobility also influences quality of life. Reducing traffic congestion, shortening travel times, and improving road safety are the main priorities of governments and companies in the sector. Moreover, the transition to cleaner forms of transport has a direct positive impact on public health by reducing air pollution levels in urban areas.

3. Sustainability: decarbonization and environmental resilience.

Sustainability is perhaps the most urgent aspect of the transformation of mobility. Contributing to nearly 25% of global CO₂ emissions, the transportation sector is a major emitter that must evolve to align with international climate goals, such as the Paris Agreement. The electrification of vehicles has become the cornerstone of this transition. From cars to buses and trucks, the proliferation of electric vehicles (EVs) is progressively replacing those that run on fossil fuels. 

However, the mass adoption of EVs presents challenges, such as the need for sufficient charging infrastructure, the lifecycle impact of batteries, and dependence on critical minerals like lithium and cobalt.

Innovation is also transforming urban mobility towards a more sustainable model. Cities are prioritizing micromobility (bicycles, electric scooters) and electrified public transport systems, which not only reduce emissions but also promote a more efficient use of urban space. Furthermore, digitalization allows for the optimization of transportation systems to reduce energy consumption and emissions.Sustainable mobility is not just a matter of technology; it is also about cultural change. Promoting habits such as walking, using public transport, or sharing vehicles requires awareness campaigns and coherent public policies. Collaboration between governments, companies, and citizens will be key to making mobility a driver of sustainability. Mobility is more than just a means of transport; it is a complex system that drives economies, connects people, and directly affects the planet. At a time of great transformations, we must address its challenges and seize the opportunities it offers to build a more inclusive, efficient, and sustainable future. From electrification to digitalization, the path to a new era of mobility is full of possibilities that will profoundly shape the way we live.