European Expert Group publishes shared mobility guidelines
As cities across Europe continue to grow and develop, the need for sustainable and efficient transport systems becomes increasingly important. New innovative mobility solutions and public space management appear as a possible solution to these needs, especially in rural/peri-urban areas.
The European Commission's Expert Group on Urban Mobility (EGUM) has adopted a new set of recommendations on complementing public transport with shared mobility and using the Social Climate Fund to support public transport. DG MOVE, the Commission department responsible for EU mobility and transport policy, has set up this reformed platform for dialogue and co-design of measures to implement the 2021 EU urban mobility framework. These recommendations also include various guidelines focusing on the future of public transport and inclusive and sustainable urban space, urban vehicle access rules and more.
As the document states, and in line with SMAPE, shared mobility has the potential for everyday journeys. But first it needs to be combined with public transport to provide a credible and effective alternative to the private car.
Key challenges and recommendations from the EGUM
Key challenges
Integration with public transport is a key challenge. Shared mobility services should complement public transport rather than replace it. This requires seamless integration into urban planning and transport systems to ensure accessibility and coverage.
Another key challenge is infrastructure and space allocation. Current urban road networks prioritise cars, which hinders the development of shared mobility. There is a need for a balanced sharing of public space between all modes of transport. Existing infrastructure also needs to be adapted to better accommodate shared mobility services.
Economic and business models are another area of concern. Sustainable and reliable business models for shared mobility services are essential. In areas where commercial viability is low, public procurement may be necessary to ensure that these services can effectively complement public transport.
Safety and inclusion are important concerns. Shared mobility services, especially micro-mobility options such as e-bikes and e-scooters, pose safety risks that need to be managed, mainly from motorised traffic.
Integrating technology and overcoming the digital divide are key challenges. Mobility as a Service (MaaS) concepts can facilitate the integration of shared mobility with public transport, but this requires effective data sharing and technological solutions.
Recommendations
- Complementarity and integration: Public authorities should develop policies to ensure that shared mobility is complementary to public transport. This includes integrating shared mobility into urban development and transport planning.
- Strategic planning: Long-term planning and investments are necessary for a stable integration of shared mobility into the transport system.
Infrastructure recommendations:
- Redistribution of public space: Urban development should include dedicated infrastructure for shared mobility, cycling and walking. Multimodal hubs should be created to facilitate easy access to different modes of transport.
- Adaptation of rolling stock: Public transport vehicles should be adapted to accommodate shared mobility options, such as space for bicycles and scooters.
- Urban development projects: Local authorities should integrate shared mobility solutions into new construction projects through specific planning rules and partnerships.
- Safety measures: Local and regional authorities should prioritise high quality active mobility infrastructure and launch communication campaigns to raise awareness of road sharing.
- Inclusive design: Shared mobility services should be designed to meet the needs of different user groups, including those with reduced mobility.
Conclusion
Shared mobility is essential for improving the efficiency and sustainability of urban and rural transport. It complements traditional public transport, reduces greenhouse gas emissions and combats urban sprawl and congestion by providing flexible, sustainable alternatives to private car use. By encouraging ridesharing and integrating different modes of transport, it supports sustainable urban development and increases vehicle occupancy rates. Economically viable and inclusive, shared mobility provides affordable and accessible transport options, enhanced by technological advances in Mobility as a Service (MaaS) platforms. The SMAPE project and the recommendations of the European Commission's Expert Group on Urban Mobility (EGUM) emphasise the importance of integrating shared mobility with public transport, supported by long-term planning and infrastructure development. The Social Climate Fund (which also has an EGUM report) should support the development of public transport and ensure that sustainable mobility options are available to all, especially vulnerable citizens.