Market Overview
Electric mobility refers to the use of electric power to propel vehicles, replacing or supplementing traditional fossil fuel combustion engines. This emerging market is gaining significant traction worldwide due to its numerous benefits, including reduced greenhouse gas emissions, improved air quality, and decreased reliance on finite fossil fuel resources. The electric mobility market encompasses a wide range of vehicles, including electric cars, electric bicycles, electric scooters, and electric buses, among others. The market is experiencing rapid growth, driven by technological advancements, government incentives, and increasing consumer demand for sustainable transportation options.
Meaning
Electric mobility refers to the utilization of electric power for the propulsion of vehicles. It involves the use of electric motors and batteries to replace or supplement traditional internal combustion engines. Electric mobility solutions encompass a diverse range of vehicles, including electric cars, electric bicycles, electric scooters, and electric buses. These vehicles rely on rechargeable batteries to store and deliver electrical energy, which powers the electric motors. By harnessing electricity as an alternative energy source, electric mobility offers a sustainable and eco-friendly transportation solution.
Executive Summary
The electric mobility market is witnessing substantial growth worldwide, driven by several factors such as increasing environmental concerns, stringent emissions regulations, and advancements in battery technology. The market is characterized by the rising adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) across various sectors, including personal transportation, shared mobility, and public transportation. Additionally, governments across the globe are implementing supportive policies and offering financial incentives to promote the adoption of electric mobility. The market is highly competitive, with key players focusing on product innovation and strategic partnerships to gain a competitive edge. Despite certain challenges, such as high upfront costs and limited charging infrastructure, the electric mobility market is poised for significant expansion in the coming years.
Important Note:ย The companies listed in the image above are for reference only. The final study will cover 18โ20 key players in this market, and the list can be adjusted based on our clientโs requirements.
Key Market Insights
- Growing Environmental Concerns: Rising awareness about the detrimental effects of fossil fuel combustion on the environment has led to increased interest in electric mobility. Electric vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions, thereby reducing air pollution and contributing to a greener future.
- Stringent Emissions Regulations: Governments worldwide are implementing strict regulations to curb greenhouse gas emissions from vehicles. These regulations are compelling automakers to develop and introduce electric vehicles into their product portfolios.
- Technological Advancements: The electric mobility market has witnessed significant technological advancements, particularly in battery technology. Improvements in battery energy density, charging infrastructure, and range have addressed some of the key concerns associated with electric vehicles, driving their widespread adoption.
- Government Support and Incentives: Governments and regulatory bodies are providing financial incentives, tax credits, and subsidies to encourage the adoption of electric mobility. These initiatives aim to accelerate the transition to sustainable transportation and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
- Cost Reduction: As battery production scales up and manufacturing processes become more efficient, the cost of electric vehicles and related components is expected to decrease. This cost reduction will further drive market growth and improve affordability for consumers.
Market Drivers
- Environmental Benefits: Electric mobility offers significant environmental advantages, including reduced greenhouse gas emissions and improved air quality. This factor is driving both individual consumers and fleet operators to transition to electric vehicles.
- Energy Independence: Electric mobility reduces dependence on fossil fuels, which are finite resources with fluctuating prices. Electric vehicles can be powered by renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind, contributing to energy independence and security.
- Lower Operating Costs: Electric vehicles have lower operating costs compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. Electric motors have fewer moving parts, resulting in reduced maintenance requirements and lower fuel costs, as electricity is generally cheaper than gasoline or diesel.
- Government Policies and Incentives: Governments around the world are implementing policies and offering financial incentives to promote the adoption of electric mobility. These include subsidies, tax credits, and preferential parking or access to restricted areas, making electric vehicles more attractive to consumers.
- Technological Advancements: Advancements in battery technology, including increased energy density and faster charging capabilities, are improving the performance and range of electric vehicles. These advancements are addressing range anxiety concerns and increasing consumer confidence in electric mobility.
Market Restraints
- High Initial Costs: Electric vehicles typically have higher upfront costs compared to conventional vehicles. The cost of batteries, which is a significant component of an electric vehicle’s price, contributes to the initial cost disparity. This higher cost can deter price-sensitive consumers from adopting electric mobility.
- Limited Charging Infrastructure: The availability of a widespread and reliable charging infrastructure is crucial for the widespread adoption of electric vehicles. The limited number of charging stations, particularly in certain regions or rural areas, can create range anxiety and hinder the adoption of electric mobility.
- Long Charging Time: Electric vehicles generally take longer to charge compared to refueling conventional vehicles with gasoline or diesel. Although fast-charging technologies are being developed, the time required to recharge electric vehicles is still longer than the time needed to refuel a traditional vehicle.
- Range Limitations: While battery technology has improved, electric vehicles still have range limitations compared to internal combustion engine vehicles. This can cause range anxiety among potential buyers, especially for long-distance travel or in regions with limited charging infrastructure.
- Uncertain Resale Value: The resale value of electric vehicles can be uncertain due to factors such as battery degradation over time. This uncertainty may make potential buyers hesitant to invest in electric vehicles, particularly in regions with limited aftermarket support for electric vehicle sales.
Market Opportunities
- Expansion of Charging Infrastructure: The development of a robust charging infrastructure is a significant opportunity for the electric mobility market. Governments, private companies, and utility providers can invest in expanding and upgrading charging networks to enhance convenience and alleviate range anxiety.
- Battery Technology Advancements: Continued advancements in battery technology, such as increased energy density and faster charging capabilities, present opportunities for the electric mobility market. These improvements can address existing limitations and further enhance the performance and range of electric vehicles.
- Electrification of Public Transportation: The electrification of public transportation systems, including buses and trains, presents a significant opportunity for the electric mobility market. Governments and transit authorities can prioritize the adoption of electric vehicles in public transportation fleets, contributing to reduced emissions and improved air quality.
- Collaborations and Partnerships: Collaborations between automakers, technology companies, and infrastructure providers can accelerate the adoption of electric mobility. Partnerships can focus on developing charging solutions, standardizing charging protocols, and expanding the range of electric vehicle models available to consumers.
- Renewable Energy Integration: The integration of electric vehicles with renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, presents an opportunity for the electric mobility market. By charging electric vehicles with clean energy, the overall environmental impact of transportation can be further reduced.
Market Dynamics
The electric mobility market is experiencing dynamic growth, driven by evolving consumer preferences, government regulations, technological advancements, and the overall transition towards sustainable transportation solutions. These market dynamics are shaping the industry landscape and presenting both challenges and opportunities for industry participants.
Consumer demand for electric vehicles is increasing due to heightened environmental awareness and the desire for more sustainable transportation options. Governments and regulatory bodies are implementing policies and incentives to encourage the adoption of electric mobility and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Technological advancements in battery technology, charging infrastructure, and vehicle performance are addressing key concerns such as range anxiety and charging times, further fueling market growth.
However, certain challenges remain, including the high upfront costs of electric vehicles, limited charging infrastructure, and range limitations. Overcoming these challenges requires collaborative efforts between automakers, governments, utility providers, and other stakeholders. Continued investments in research and development, along with the expansion of charging networks and battery technology improvements, are crucial for the long-term success of the electric mobility market.
Regional Analysis
The electric mobility market exhibits regional variations influenced by factors such as government policies, infrastructure development, consumer preferences, and technological advancements. The following regions have emerged as key players in the electric mobility market:
- North America: The North American market has witnessed significant growth in electric mobility, driven by a combination of government incentives, technological advancements, and consumer demand for sustainable transportation options. The United States and Canada have implemented supportive policies, such as tax credits and grants, to encourage electric vehicle adoption.
- Europe: Europe is at the forefront of the electric mobility market, with several countries leading in terms of electric vehicle sales and infrastructure development. Countries like Norway, the Netherlands, and Germany have implemented ambitious targets to phase out internal combustion engine vehicles and promote the transition to electric mobility.
- Asia Pacific: The Asia Pacific region is a major market for electric mobility, with countries like China, Japan, and South Korea leading in terms of electric vehicle sales. China, in particular, has emerged as the largest electric vehicle market globally, driven by government subsidies, strict emission regulations, and a strong charging infrastructure network.
- Rest of the World: Other regions, including Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa, are also witnessing a gradual shift towards electric mobility. These regions offer immense potential for market growth, driven by increasing urbanization, infrastructure development initiatives, and rising environmental concerns.
The regional variations in the electric mobility market highlight the importance of understanding specific market dynamics and tailoring strategies accordingly. Localized initiatives, partnerships with government agencies and utilities, and customized marketing efforts are key to success in each region.
Competitive Landscape
Leading Companies in the Electric Mobility Market:
- Tesla, Inc.
- Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
- BYD Company Ltd.
- BMW AG
- Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd.
- Xiaomi Corporation
- Lime
- Bird Rides, Inc.
- Segway Inc.
- Hero Electric Vehicles Pvt. Ltd.
Please note: This is a preliminary list; the final study will feature 18โ20 leading companies in this market. The selection of companies in the final report can be customized based on our client’s specific requirements.
Segmentation
The electric mobility market can be segmented based on various factors, including vehicle type, battery type, end-user, and region. The following are common segmentation criteria used in the electric mobility market:
- Vehicle Type:
- Electric Cars: This segment includes passenger cars, SUVs, and hatchbacks powered by electric motors.
- Electric Bicycles: Electric bicycles are bicycles equipped with an electric motor that assists with propulsion.
- Electric Scooters and Motorcycles: This segment includes electric-powered scooters and motorcycles designed for personal transportation.
- Electric Buses: Electric buses are gaining traction in public transportation systems, offering reduced emissions and improved efficiency.
- Battery Type:
- Lithium-ion Batteries: Lithium-ion batteries are the most common type of battery used in electric vehicles, known for their high energy density and efficiency.
- Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) Batteries: NiMH batteries have been widely used in earlier electric vehicles but are being phased out due to lower energy density compared to lithium-ion batteries.
- Solid-State Batteries: Solid-state batteries represent the next generation of battery technology, offering higher energy density, faster charging, and improved safety.
- End-user:
- Personal Mobility: This segment includes electric vehicles used for personal transportation, such as electric cars, electric bicycles, and electric scooters.
- Shared Mobility: Shared mobility services, including ride-sharing platforms and car-sharing programs, are increasingly adopting electric vehicles to provide sustainable transportation options.
- Public Transportation: Electric buses and trains are being adopted in public transportation systems to reduce emissions and improve air quality in urban areas.
- Region:
- North America: This region includes the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
- Europe: This region comprises countries within the European Union and other European countries.
- Asia Pacific: This region includes countries such as China, Japan, South Korea, India, and Australia.
- Rest of the World: This segment covers regions beyond North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific, including Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa.
Segmentation allows industry participants to identify specific market opportunities, understand consumer preferences, and tailor their strategies accordingly. By catering to the unique needs of each segment, companies can enhance their market presence and capture a larger share of the electric mobility market.
Category-wise Insights
- Electric Cars:
- Electric cars are the most well-known and widely adopted category of electric vehicles.
- The demand for electric cars is primarily driven by environmental concerns, government incentives, and advancements in battery technology.
- Major automakers are introducing a wide range of electric car models, catering to different price points and consumer preferences.
- The luxury electric car segment is gaining popularity, with brands like Tesla, BMW, and Audi offering high-performance electric vehicles.
- Electric Bicycles:
- Electric bicycles provide an eco-friendly alternative to traditional bicycles, with an electric motor assisting with propulsion.
- Electric bicycles are particularly popular in urban areas and for short commutes, offering convenience and reduced effort for riders.
- The market for electric bicycles is expanding rapidly, driven by factors such as traffic congestion, rising fuel prices, and the desire for healthier and more sustainable transportation options.
- Electric Scooters and Motorcycles:
- Electric scooters and motorcycles offer an efficient and environmentally friendly mode of personal transportation.
- These vehicles are gaining popularity, particularly in urban areas, for their maneuverability and ease of use in congested traffic.
- Electric scooters and motorcycles are being adopted for both personal use and shared mobility services, contributing to reduced emissions and improved air quality in cities.
- Electric Buses:
- Electric buses are becoming increasingly prevalent in public transportation systems, offering significant environmental benefits and operational cost savings.
- Governments and transit authorities are prioritizing the electrification of bus fleets to reduce emissions and improve air quality in urban areas.
- The adoption of electric buses is supported by advancements in battery technology, increasing range and charging capabilities, as well as financial incentives and grants provided by governments.
Understanding the unique characteristics and market dynamics of each category is crucial for industry participants to effectively target their efforts and cater to specific consumer needs. By providing diverse options and addressing the specific requirements of each category, companies can maximize their market reach and capitalize on the growing demand for electric mobility.
Key Benefits for Industry Participants and Stakeholders
- Automakers:
- The electric mobility market presents automakers with opportunities for growth and innovation, allowing them to tap into a rapidly expanding market segment.
- By investing in electric vehicle production, automakers can improve their brand image, meet regulatory requirements, and attract environmentally conscious consumers.
- Electric vehicle production also provides automakers with the potential for new revenue streams, as consumers transition from traditional vehicles to electric models.
- Battery Manufacturers:
- The increasing demand for electric vehicles drives the demand for batteries, offering significant opportunities for battery manufacturers.
- Battery manufacturers can leverage their expertise to develop high-performance and cost-effective batteries, contributing to the advancement of electric mobility.
- Collaborations with automakers and other industry stakeholders can help battery manufacturers establish long-term partnerships and secure a strong position in the market.
- Charging Infrastructure Providers:
- The expansion of electric mobility necessitates the development of a robust charging infrastructure network.
- Charging infrastructure providers can capitalize on this opportunity by investing in the installation and maintenance of charging stations.
- By offering convenient and reliable charging solutions, infrastructure providers can support the adoption of electric vehicles and enhance the overall user experience.
- Energy Companies:
- Electric mobility presents energy companies with new opportunities to supply electricity for vehicle charging.
- By integrating renewable energy sources into their portfolio, energy companies can support the sustainability goals of electric mobility and offer green energy options to electric vehicle owners.
- Additionally, energy companies can explore partnerships and collaborations with charging infrastructure providers to develop innovative solutions and optimize the energy grid for electric vehicle charging.
- Consumers:
- Consumers benefit from electric mobility through reduced fuel costs, lower maintenance requirements, and a greener transportation option.
- Electric vehicles offer a quieter and smoother driving experience, contributing to enhanced comfort for consumers.
- With advancements in battery technology, electric vehicles are overcoming range limitations, providing consumers with more practical and reliable transportation options.
- Governments and Regulatory Bodies:
- Governments and regulatory bodies benefit from the adoption of electric mobility through reduced greenhouse gas emissions, improved air quality, and a decrease in fossil fuel consumption.
- Supporting the electric mobility market aligns with sustainability goals and demonstrates a commitment to addressing environmental concerns.
- Governments can also stimulate economic growth and job creation by encouraging investments in the electric mobility sector.
Understanding the key benefits for industry participants and stakeholders helps foster collaboration, innovation, and the development of supportive policies and initiatives. By working together, industry participants and stakeholders can drive the widespread adoption of electric mobility and create a more sustainable and efficient transportation ecosystem.
SWOT Analysis
A SWOT analysis provides an overview of the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats in the electric mobility market.
Strengths:
- Environmental Benefits: Electric mobility offers significant environmental advantages, including reduced greenhouse gas emissions and improved air quality.
- Technological Advancements: Advancements in battery technology and charging infrastructure are addressing key concerns associated with electric vehicles, such as range anxiety and charging times.
- Government Support: Governments worldwide are implementing supportive policies and offering financial incentives to promote the adoption of electric mobility.
- Cost Reduction Potential: As battery production scales up and manufacturing processes become more efficient, the cost of electric vehicles and related components is expected to decrease.
Weaknesses:
- High Initial Costs: Electric vehicles generally have higher upfront costs compared to conventional vehicles, mainly due to the cost of batteries.
- Limited Charging Infrastructure: The availability of a widespread and reliable charging infrastructure is essential for the widespread adoption of electric vehicles.
- Range Limitations: Electric vehicles still have range limitations compared to internal combustion engine vehicles, causing range anxiety among potential buyers.
Opportunities:
- Expansion of Charging Infrastructure: The development of a robust charging infrastructure network is a significant opportunity for the electric mobility market.
- Battery Technology Advancements: Continued advancements in battery technology, such as increased energy density and faster charging capabilities, present opportunities for the market.
- Electrification of Public Transportation: The electrification of public transportation systems, including buses and trains, presents a significant opportunity for the electric mobility market.
Threats:
- Fossil Fuel Industry Influence: The fossil fuel industry may attempt to slow down the transition to electric mobility due to potential economic repercussions.
- Competition from Conventional Vehicles: Conventional vehicles powered by internal combustion engines continue to dominate the market and pose competition to electric mobility.
- Limited Range and Charging Infrastructure: Range anxiety and the limited availability of charging infrastructure can deter potential buyers from adopting electric vehicles.
Analyzing the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats in the electric mobility market helps industry participants identify areas of improvement, capitalize on market opportunities, and address potential challenges.
Market Key Trends
- Increasing Range and Battery Efficiency: Advancements in battery technology are improving the range and efficiency of electric vehicles, reducing range anxiety and increasing consumer confidence in electric mobility.
- Fast-Charging Infrastructure Expansion: The development of fast-charging infrastructure allows for quicker recharging times, enhancing the convenience and usability of electric vehicles.
- Rise of Shared Electric Mobility: Shared mobility services, such as electric ride-sharing and car-sharing programs, are gaining popularity, offering consumers convenient and cost-effective transportation options.
- Integration of Renewable Energy: The integration of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, into the charging infrastructure is a growing trend. Charging electric vehicles with clean energy contributes to a greener and more sustainable transportation ecosystem.
- Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) Technology: Vehicle-to-grid technology enables electric vehicles to store and supply electricity back to the grid, creating a decentralized energy storage system and supporting grid stability.
- Development of Lightweight Materials: Lightweight materials, such as carbon fiber and aluminum, are being increasingly used in electric vehicle manufacturing. These materials help reduce vehicle weight, improve range, and increase energy efficiency.
- Connected and Autonomous Features: Electric vehicles are incorporating advanced connectivity and autonomous driving features, enhancing user experience, and providing additional safety and convenience.
Staying abreast of key trends in the electric mobility market allows industry participants to adapt their strategies, align with consumer demands, and take advantage of emerging opportunities.
Covid-19 Impact
The COVID-19 pandemic has had both positive and negative impacts on the electric mobility market.
Positive Impact:
- Increased Focus on Sustainability: The pandemic has highlighted the importance of sustainable and resilient transportation systems, leading to an increased focus on electric mobility as a greener alternative to conventional vehicles.
- Government Stimulus Packages: Governments around the world have implemented stimulus packages to revive the economy, with a significant emphasis on clean energy and electric mobility. These measures provide financial incentives and support for electric vehicle adoption.
- Reduced Air Pollution: The lockdowns and travel restrictions during the pandemic resulted in reduced traffic and lower emissions, highlighting the potential for cleaner air with the widespread adoption of electric vehicles.
Negative Impact:
- Disrupted Supply Chains: The pandemic disrupted global supply chains, affecting the production and delivery of electric vehicles and related components. This led to delays and challenges for automakers and limited consumer access to electric vehicles.
- Economic Uncertainty: The economic downturn caused by the pandemic resulted in financial challenges for consumers, potentially affecting their willingness to invest in higher-priced electric vehicles.
- Decline in Oil Prices: The drop in oil prices during the pandemic made conventional fuel more affordable, potentially impacting the cost competitiveness of electric vehicles.
Despite the short-term challenges posed by the pandemic, the electric mobility market is expected to recover and continue its growth trajectory in the long term, driven by increasing environmental concerns, government support, and advancements in technology.
Key Industry Developments
- Expansion of Charging Infrastructure: Governments, utility companies, and private enterprises are investing in the development of charging infrastructure networks to support the growing demand for electric vehicles.
- Strategic Partnerships: Automakers are forming strategic partnerships with technology companies, charging infrastructure providers, and energy companies to accelerate the adoption of electric mobility and drive innovation in the market.
- Battery Technology Advancements: Battery manufacturers are investing in research and development to improve battery energy density, charging capabilities, and overall performance. Advancements in solid-state batteries and other emerging technologies are expected to shape the future of electric mobility.
- Policy Support and Regulations: Governments are implementing policies and regulations to support electric mobility, including emission standards, financial incentives, and infrastructure development targets.
- Integration of Mobility Services: Electric mobility is increasingly being integrated into broader mobility services, including ride-sharing and car-sharing platforms, offering consumers a seamless and sustainable transportation experience.
These industry developments indicate the commitment of various stakeholders to drive the growth of electric mobility. Collaboration, innovation, and supportive policies play a vital role in shaping the industry landscape and advancing the adoption of electric vehicles.
Analyst Suggestions
- Collaborate for Infrastructure Development: Industry participants, governments, and utility companies should collaborate to accelerate the development of charging infrastructure networks, addressing the limited availability and reliability of charging stations.
- Enhance Affordability: Automakers and battery manufacturers should focus on cost reduction measures to make electric vehicles more affordable for a wider consumer base. This can be achieved through economies of scale, battery technology advancements, and strategic partnerships.
- Expand Range and Charging Capabilities: Continued investment in battery technology research and development is crucial to increase the range and charging capabilities of electric vehicles, mitigating range anxiety and improving consumer confidence.
- Improve Consumer Education: Educating consumers about the benefits and practicalities of electric mobility is essential. Industry participants should invest in awareness campaigns and provide transparent information about charging infrastructure, range, and cost savings.
- Supportive Policies and Incentives: Governments should continue to implement supportive policies and financial incentives to encourage the adoption of electric mobility, including tax credits, grants, and subsidies. Policy stability and long-term planning are vital to provide a conducive environment for market growth.
- Foster Research and Development: Continued research and development efforts are necessary to advance battery technology, charging infrastructure, and connected and autonomous features in electric vehicles. Collaboration between industry players, research institutions, and academia can accelerate innovation in the electric mobility market.
Future Outlook
The future of the electric mobility market appears promising, with strong growth potential and increasing global support for sustainable transportation solutions. Key factors influencing the future outlook include:
- Technological Advancements: Continued advancements in battery technology, charging infrastructure, and vehicle performance will address existing challenges and drive further adoption of electric mobility.
- Government Commitment: Governments worldwide are increasingly committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable transportation. Supportive policies, financial incentives, and infrastructure investments will continue to drive market growth.
- Changing Consumer Preferences: Consumer awareness and preference for sustainable transportation options are growing. As more consumers prioritize environmental concerns and experience the benefits of electric vehicles, the demand for electric mobility is expected to increase.
- Increasing Competition: The electric mobility market is becoming increasingly competitive, with both established automakers and new entrants vying for market share. This competition will drive innovation, improve product offerings, and contribute to market expansion.
- Charging Infrastructure Development: The expansion of charging infrastructure networks will play a critical role in the future of electric mobility. Investments in fast-charging technology and the establishment of convenient charging networks will enhance the usability and convenience of electric vehicles.
- Renewable Energy Integration: The integration of electric vehicles with renewable energy sources will further enhance the sustainability of electric mobility. The use of clean energy for vehicle charging will reduce emissions and contribute to a more sustainable energy ecosystem.
Overall, the electric mobility market is poised for significant growth in the coming years, driven by evolving consumer preferences, government support, technological advancements, and a global shift towards sustainable transportation solutions.
Conclusion
The electric mobility market is experiencing rapid growth worldwide, driven by the need for sustainable transportation solutions, stringent emissions regulations, and advancements in battery technology. Electric vehicles, including cars, bicycles, scooters, and buses, offer environmental benefits, lower operating costs, and improved energy independence. While the market faces challenges such as high upfront costs and limited charging infrastructure, opportunities such as infrastructure development, battery technology advancements, and the electrification of public transportation are emerging.
Industry participants and stakeholders can benefit from the growing market by capitalizing on key trends, collaborating on infrastructure development, enhancing affordability, and educating consumers. Governments play a crucial role through supportive policies, financial incentives, and long-term planning. Continued research and development efforts, strategic partnerships, and the integration of renewable energy sources will shape the future of electric mobility.
The electric mobility market’s future outlook is optimistic, with strong growth potential driven by technological advancements, government commitment, changing consumer preferences, increasing competition, charging infrastructure development, and renewable energy integration. By embracing electric mobility, we can contribute to a greener and more sustainable future of transportation.