The urban mobility of the future aims to create sustainable, inclusive, safe, and resilient transportation.
A new report by EIT Urban Mobility, in collaboration with Impact Hub Vienna and Point&, illuminates the evolving landscape of mobility in Europe and the critical need for more inclusive and sustainable transport systems.
The “Better Mobility Trendreport” analyzes key trends and opportunities for innovators, intending to make transport systems more accessible, affordable, and safe for all. The study incorporates insights from over 300 startups and 100 industry and academic experts across Europe, pointing towards a future where mobility solutions are tailored to a broader range of users, not just the “niche” of “men, aged 25-45, speaking the local language, without care duties and having 9-5 jobs”.
Inclusivity imperative
The report highlights a significant disparity between current transport networks and the diverse needs of the European population. With over 100 million people in the EU having care duties, another 100 million living with disabilities, and more than 90 million aged 65 or older, the necessity for inclusive mobility solutions is straightforward.
Inclusive mobility ensures that sustainable transport options are accessible, affordable, and safe for everyone, regardless of age, gender, ability, income, or location. “Inclusive mobility creates new opportunities as it enhances the quality of life and boosts economic participation, innovative solutions, and social equity by reducing barriers to movement.”
Holistic mobility systems
One of the report’s main findings is the growing need for holistic transport systems integrating diverse mobility options. Mobility services are fragmented, with many actors offering poorly connected services.
Cooperation across borders, integrating different transport modes, and creating multimodal hubs are crucial for developing a system that serves everyone. Lina Mosshammer at Point&, a report co-author, points to Austria’s Klima Ticket as an “excellent example of how integrating different transport services can make mobility more seamless and accessible.”
The Klima Ticket offers nationwide access, including shared mobility options, simplifying travel and improving coverage for a broader range of users. “A comprehensive system must prioritize integration and accessibility, emphasizing seamless and digital cross-border cooperation, where hubs combine diverse mobility services.” Public transport planning should focus on passengers, ensuring barrier-free access throughout the journey.
Livable cities and regions
With over 80% of EU residents expected to live in urban areas by 2025, the report emphasizes the importance of designing livable, pedestrian-friendly cities. This requires prioritizing walkability, green spaces, and safer infrastructure.
Transforming cities requires rethinking current structures to prioritize walkability, green spaces, and reduced traffic while enhancing accessibility through proximity and functional diversity. Paris, for instance, has committed to creating 100 hectares of new green spaces. “Public space is crucial for social connection, enabling interactions and fostering a sense of belonging.”
Health and well-being
The report also underscores the importance of prioritizing physical and mental health in mobility planning. By 2030, one in four people in the EU will be 64 or older, many eager to stay active.
Mobility is linked to health by empowering people to move independently. The German city of Griesheim, with its concept of a “sittable and playable city,” is highlighted for its focus on improving paths for children and pedestrians with limited mobility.
“Prioritizing health is vital as climate change heightens risks, especially for vulnerable groups and an aging society. Green spaces, traffic calming, and safe, accessible infrastructure for active mobility reduce stress, enhance independence, and promote well-being”.
Safety and security
Safety and security remain key trends, with progress regarding road fatalities having stalled in the EU. The report emphasizes the need for well-lit, attractive public spaces, reliable public transport, and safe cycling infrastructure to build user trust.
Stronger regulations and standards, reliable transport, inclusive mobility services, and safer infrastructure are key. Helsinki and Oslo achieved the Vision Zero target in 2019 by reducing traffic, limiting access to city centers, and implementing speed limits in residential areas.
Startups and innovation
Startups play a crucial role in driving user-centric innovation in the mobility sector. Alexis Eremia, Co-Founder and Managing Director at Impact Hub Vienna, notes that startups offer “fresh perspectives and user-centered innovations that make transport systems more inclusive and adaptable.”
The Better Mobility Accelerator, a pan-European innovation program, has been instrumental in identifying emerging solutions to bridge accessibility gaps in transport systems.
Untapped potential
The report highlights the untapped potential for making transportation more accessible in sectors like tourism and health. Expanding mobility options for these sectors could drive growth and enhance accessibility for a broader range of users. Lina Mosshammer emphasizes the need to embed diversity, equity, and inclusion into investments and ventures, leveraging inclusivity as a competitive advantage.
Small changes and big Impact
Yoann Le Petit, Thought Leadership Manager at EIT Urban Mobility, notes that improving mobility doesn’t always require major technological breakthroughs. “Our report shows that small improvements to infrastructure, service design, or transport accessibility can have a transformative impact.”
Cities leading the way
Several cities are already making strides in creating more inclusive and sustainable mobility solutions. Vienna, Austria, was awarded the Access City Award 2025 for its efforts to improve accessibility in transport, infrastructure, public spaces, and services.
Lisbon, Portugal, was named the European Capital of Innovation for 2023, acknowledging its efforts to foster new solutions and promote economic and social inclusivity. These cities prioritize people with disabilities in the planning process, ensuring that infrastructure changes meet the needs of diverse users.
The path forward
The “Better Mobility Trendreport” offers a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities in the European mobility landscape. By prioritizing inclusivity, sustainability, and innovation, Europe can create transport systems that are accessible, affordable, and safe for all. The report serves as a call to action for policymakers, industry leaders, and innovators to work together to shape a future where mobility enhances the quality of life for every European citizen.
