EMBRACER Tackles On-Demand Transport Challenges in Spain
The EMBRACER project convened a successful Regional Stakeholder Group Meeting on December 4th, 2024, at the CONSEJERÍA DE MOVILIDAD Y TRANSFORMACIÓN DIGITAL in Valladolid. Capitalizing on the concurrent Interreg Spain-Portugal Exchange of Experience event, the meeting focused on "Exploring On-Demand Transport: cross-border cooperation" and fostered a dynamic exchange of knowledge and good practices.
The meeting supported by the project Lead Partner, University of Aveiro, Intermunicapal Community of Coimbra Region and associated policy authority Centro Regional Coordination and Development Commission commenced with a technical visit to a booking center for on-demand transport, offering participants a practical perspective. Discussions then centered on the diverse approaches to on-demand transport (DRT) across different regions. Castilla and Leon's pioneering DRT system, a recipient of numerous awards and an inspiration for many Portuguese DRT initiatives. Importantly, the meeting also highlighted the successes of DRT systems in Coimbra, Médio Tejo, and Viseu, which have been recognized as good practices in various European initiatives and the policy learning platform.
Key Takeaways:
DRT diversity: The meeting highlighted the diverse landscape of DRT systems, emphasizing the importance of tailoring solutions to specific regional needs and contexts.
Learning from pioneers: Castilla and Leon's experience provided valuable insights for other regions seeking to implement or enhance their own DRT systems.
Addressing challenges: Participants openly discussed challenges such as the lack of manpower for managing transit platforms, the need for stronger operator engagement, and the difficulties faced by the ageing population in accessing and utilizing advanced booking apps.
Participants in the EMBRACER meeting explored exciting possibilities for enhancing current DRT systems.
These included:
Intelligent Demand Management: Leveraging Artificial Intelligence to analyze data and anticipate demand, allowing operators to optimize resources, adjust service offerings in real-time, and minimize operational risks.
Expanding Service Integration: Exploring the potential of autonomous vehicles and shared resources to integrate DRT with other essential services, such as schools, logistics providers, and social community centers, creating a more holistic and efficient transportation ecosystem.
Seamless Public Transport Connections: Integrating DRT with Mass Public Transport networks to provide seamless and convenient travel options for passengers, bridging gaps in existing services and expanding access to a wider range of destinations.
These forward-thinking strategies sparked enthusiastic discussions among attendees, highlighting the potential of DRT to improve accessibility in underserved areas. The University of Aveiro outlined EMBRACER's objectives and its role in supporting the development and implementation of innovative policies including identifying funding opportunities within regional programmes.