Curriculum
Neuroscience, Technology and Society, XXXVII series 
Grant sponsor
PON
Supervisor

Antonio Paoli
Co-Supervisor

Claudio Palazzi

Project: The Evolution of E-Bikes: Health and Environmental Advantages, Adoption Challenges, and the Emerging Technological Innovations
Full text of the dissertation book can be downloaded from: https://hdl.handle.net/11577/3553751

Abstract: Air pollution and physical inactivity are major concerns of the 21st century. Active commuting provides a solution to these interrelated issues, although several barriers prevent widespread adoption. In this context, e-bikes present a promising choice due to their potential to minimize physical effort while maintaining the advantages of physical activity. Despite their increasing popularity in other European countries, adherence in Italy is limited, indicating the need for further investigation. This thesis broadly explores active commuting and worker health, with particular attention to factors that may hinder its adoption. Among these factors, low back pain (LBP)—a common musculoskeletal disorder affecting both workers and athletes—may affect physical activity engagement because of its symptomatology. In our study, we observed an altered recruitment strategy of the erector spinae muscles in cyclists with LBP that may elevate the risk of injury. To further explore commuting behaviors, we conducted an observational study in the Veneto region (Italy) and we observed that workers rely on cars for commuting, while active commuters reported higher satisfaction with their travel mode compared to passive commuters. Despite this, companies inadequately promote active commuting, and workers often remain unaware of such initiatives. Perceived commuting stress was linked to distance, travel time, and traffic congestion, emphasizing the need for alternatives to motorized vehicles that pollute and occupy space on the roads. As e-bikes are not widespread in the territory, we used an extended theory of planned behavior to identify the factors related to the intention to use e-bikes for commuting. The analysis revealed that attitudes, subjective norms, and financial incentives are significant predictors of e-bike commuting intentions, and passive commuters showed greater interest than active commuters. Finally, we designed E.P.H.E.S.U.S., a smart e-bike integrating advanced sensors and gamification elements to improve commuting experiences and comfort. Despite being simply conceptual, the design offers practical insights into addressing physical strain and air pollution inhalation when pedaling. This thesis provides significant contributions to active commuting research, with implications for occupational health, urban planning, and green technology.