Three Mobility Trends to Look out for in 2021

Logistics Transportation Review | Wednesday, November 10, 2021

 

With the introduction of new instruments, including the use of AI and machine learning, it is possible to conduct the analyses that drive these technologies very rapidly and incorporate operational modifications practically overnight.

Fremont, CA: There have been numerous articles concerning mobility predictions and trends for 2021. So, here are three mobility uses that will remain a trend after the pandemic as well as how equity can be accomplished using technology-powered mobility:

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MaaS or MOD

The boundaries between MaaS and Mobility on Demand (MOD) will begin to blur. Although several attempts to describe all of these concepts have been made, the industry continues to address the essential features of on-demand mobility services.

In short, many of these conversations lead to the realization that MaaS is a tool that provides MOD access. Nevertheless, discussions will continue in 2021 on the related business models, the impacts of MaaS and MOD on travel conduct, the viability of MaaS/MOD platforms, given their current dependence on venture capital, the creation and use of suitable assessment mechanisms, and the determination of "readyness" for MaaS.

Creating standards within technology

The second prediction is that much more work will be done to harmonize standards that are focused on different kinds of technology-enabled mobility. This involves cooperation and harmonization of technical standards between various organizations that establish standards for diverse populations and fields.

This standard-based API from Transport Operators (TO) to or from MaaS Providers (MP) enables all participating companies to interact about multimodal, end-user-specific trip planning, booking, execution, support, general information, and payments. The use of the TOMP-API increases interoperability in the MaaS ecosystem between parties. The TOMP standard-based API was created by the MaaS program of the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management.

Accelerate processes

The third prediction is that public transport-related activities that usually take a long time to complete, such as the scheduling and restructuring of transport services, will be able to take place quickly. This flexibility and agility will be needed to adapt services or provide the public with new information on an as-needed basis, based on pandemic factors affecting the use of public transport.

Public transport, especially in the adjustment of service levels and the provision of new real-time information, has not generally been flexible. With the introduction of new instruments, including the use of AI and machine learning, it is possible to conduct the analyses that drive these technologies very rapidly and incorporate operational modifications practically overnight.

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