New EIT Urban Mobility study calls for inclusive transport beyond the 9–5 model

The Better Mobility Trendreport, a study by EIT Urban Mobility, examines how public transport networks throughout Europe can change to become more inclusive and adaptable to the various demands of contemporary urban dwellers. A significant portion of the population travels at varying times, for different purposes, and with distinct need - yet traditional transport planning models, primarily designed for regular, peak-hour commuters, often fail to accommodate them.

The study is particularly relevant during EU Diversity Month, an initiative by the European Commission dedicated to celebrating and promoting diversity and inclusion in society. Inclusion must extend to public infrastructure, such as transport systems, which are essential for social and economic participation.

Key findings of the report include:

• There is no one-size-fits-all in transportation: Most urban mobility systems are still designed with the average weekday commuter in mind. However, these systems are underserving an increasing number of people, such as older adults, carers, people with disabilities, part-time workers, and those with irregular work schedules.

• Invisible travellers: These non-traditional users frequently encounter obstacles to access, such as inadequate infrastructure, limited accessibility features, unsafe conditions, and poor service outside of peak hours. When making decisions about investments and policies, their needs are frequently disregarded.

• Gender and inclusion gaps. The study emphasises how current transport models disproportionately impact women. Women are more likely to travel during off-peak hours and make shorter, multi-stop trips (also known as "trip chaining") - patterns that are not adequately supported by current services.

The report includes the following recommendations:

• Designing inclusive policies: Governments and transit authorities should develop policies that consider a wide range of travel requirements. This includes implementing universal design principles, enhancing first- and last-mile connections, and expanding services beyond peak hours.

• User-centred planning: Involving under-represented groups in decision-making processes can lead to more equitable and efficient transportation solutions. Community engagement is essential to ensure services meet actual needs.

• Better data collection: Cities can identify gaps and monitor their progress towards inclusivity by collecting detailed travel data disaggregated by mobility status, age, gender, and income.

• Cross-sector collaboration: Achieving truly inclusive urban mobility requires collaboration between civil society, private sector stakeholders, and public institutions. 
   

The report underscores the importance of reimagining urban mobility not merely as a tool for economic productivity but as an essential public service that should benefit all individuals equally. By moving beyond the traditional 9–5 commuter model, European cities can develop more equitable, adaptable, and accessible transport systems.

Author: Sara Mecatti

Views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) and do not reflect those of the European Commission.