Bicycles and cargo bikes – Hybrid modular models for urban micromobility and logistics

Authors

  • Alessandra Rinaldi University of Florence (Italy)
  • Jonathan Lagrimino University of Florence (Italy)

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.69143/2464-9309/19272026

Keywords:

urban micromobility, modular light vehicles, cargo bikes, last-mile logistics, hybrid mobility

Abstract

This paper explores modularity as a design lever for integrating personal micromobility and logistics. Taking as its starting case study a modular light vehicle developed within the framework of the National Centre for Sustainable Mobility (Spoke 5 ‘Light Vehicle and Active Mobility’), the research adopts a Design Thinking approach and a Double Diamond model, combining literature analysis, expert consultation, the use of recurring factors, and scenario development. The results consist of an interpretative framework based on five key factors of urban micromobility systems and a proposal for a Hybrid Professional Micromobility model, in which the vehicle’s reconfigurability enables hybrid use between everyday mobility and proximity services. The findings highlight significant implications for flexibility of use, fleet management, and service reconfiguration.

 

Article info

Received: 10/03/2026; Revised: 16/04/2026; Accepted: 22/04/2026

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Author Biographies

Alessandra Rinaldi, University of Florence (Italy)

Architect and PhD, she is an Associate Professor of Design at the Department of Architecture and the Director of IDEE LAB (Innovation in Design and Engineering Laboratory). Her research focuses on innovation in product design, ergonomics, and interaction design, adopting approaches based on Design Thinking, Human-centred Design, Design for Inclusion, and experience-based innovation.
E-mail: alessandra.rinaldi@unifi.it

Jonathan Lagrimino, University of Florence (Italy)

Designer and PhD, he is a Researcher at the Department of Architecture and a member of IDEE LAB (Innovation in Design and Engineering Laboratory). His research focuses on product and product-service system innovation in the field of design for sustainable mobility, with particular attention to ergonomics and human interaction.
E-mail: jonathan.lagrimino@unifi.it

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Modular bike project proposal: e-cargo bike layout, Size ‘M’; e-cargo bike layout, Size ‘L’ (credits: the Authors, 2025). AGATHÓN 19 | 2026

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Published

30-06-2026

How to Cite

Rinaldi, A. and Lagrimino, J. (2026) “Bicycles and cargo bikes – Hybrid modular models for urban micromobility and logistics”, AGATHÓN | International Journal of Architecture, Art and Design, 19, pp. 464–481. doi: 10.69143/2464-9309/19272026.
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