The world produced an estimated 130 million bicycles in 2007—more than twice the 52 million cars produced. Bicycle and car production tracked each other closely in the mid-to-late 1960s, but bike output separated sharply from that of cars in 1970, beginning its steep climb to 105 million in 1988. Following a slowdown between 1989 and 2001, bike production has regained steam, increasing in each of the last six years. Much of the recent growth has been driven by the rise in electric, or “e-bike” production, which has doubled since 2004 to 21 million units in 2007. Overall, since 1970, bicycle output has nearly quadrupled, while car production has roughly doubled.
Earth Policy Institute
1 comment:
Having spent time cycling in Europe in the late 1950's I know what it is like to see hundreds of bikes on the roads.
Like the USA and Canada, Australia seems to have a car culture, so bicycles are less used for practical purposes, but as a hobby or sport - we also lack shared cycle paths which would make cycling safer.
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