Innovative Mobility Study in Eastern Switzerland Explores Integration of Public Transport with E-Bikes and E-Scooters

Innovative Mobility Study in Eastern Switzerland Explores Integration of Public Transport with E-Bikes and E-Scooters

(IN BRIEF) A pioneering research project in Eastern Switzerland, led by the Institute for Mobility (IMO-HSG) and partnered with OSTWIND, TIER, SBB, and local authorities, is exploring the integration of public transport with shared micromobility options like e-bikes and e-scooters. The study tests discounted bundle packages that combine public transport with micromobility, aiming to enhance convenience and reduce car dependency, particularly in less connected areas. The project will run until November 2024, with results informing future developments. Additionally, “sharing zones” will be tested to improve access to micromobility and organize urban spaces.

(PRESS RELEASE) ST. GALLEN, 20-Aug-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — A pioneering research project in Eastern Switzerland is testing the integration of public transport with shared micromobility options, such as e-bikes and e-scooters, to enhance the region’s transportation network. The study, led by the Institute for Mobility (IMO-HSG) in collaboration with partners including OSTWIND, TIER, SBB, the City of St. Gallen, and AGGLO St. Gallen-Bodensee, aims to explore how these environmentally friendly alternatives can complement traditional public transport services.

The growing popularity of e-scooters and e-bikes in Swiss cities has opened up new possibilities for enhancing public transport by offering sustainable solutions for the “first and last mile” of a journey. Dr. Philipp Scharfenberger, Vice Director at the IMO-HSG, emphasized the potential of shared micromobility to make accessing public transport stops more convenient, especially in areas that are less connected by bus or train services.

As part of the project, the researchers are testing discounted bundle packages that combine public transport with micromobility options. These packages are designed to encourage more people to integrate micromobility into their daily routines, offering flexible and efficient alternatives to car travel.

Christian Stieger, Head of Marketing & Communication at OSTWIND, highlighted the success of earlier partnerships with micromobility providers, noting that these new offers aim to deepen the understanding of customer needs and preferences. Manuel Herzog, Public Policy Manager Switzerland at TIER Mobility, echoed this sentiment, expressing confidence in the long-term importance of integrating micromobility with public transport.

The study offers various discounted options for OSTWIND travelcard holders, including a flat rate for unlimited e-scooter and e-bike journeys, travel credits, and a micromobility “Half-Fare Card.” Additionally, the “Öv Plus” app provides a voucher for a single micromobility journey when purchasing an OSTWIND one-way ticket.

PhD student Matthias Brüning, part of the IMO-HSG team, noted the uniqueness of this study in testing such heavily discounted packages, with hopes that the findings will have broader implications for urban mobility design beyond the region.

The pilot phase will continue until mid-November 2024, with results expected by the end of the year. The outcomes will determine the future of the integrated service provided by OSTWIND and TIER.

In parallel, the project will also test the establishment of “sharing zones” in collaboration with SBB, AGGLO St. Gallen-Bodensee, and the City of St. Gallen. These micromobility hubs aim to improve access to shared vehicles in urban and suburban areas, while also contributing to a more orderly cityscape.

For more details on the project and the available offers, visit tier.ostwind.ch and imo.unisg.ch.

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SOURCE: University of St. Gallen