Better Mobility Trendreport: new EIT Urban Mobility study analyses how to make European transport truly inclusive

We are pleased to announce the publication of our latest study, produced in collaboration with Impact Hub Vienna and Point&: the Better Mobility Trendreport identifies key trends shaping the future of mobility and highlights the opportunities for innovators to develop solutions that will make our transport systems more accessible, affordable and safe for all.

Want to know more? Join us for an exclusive conversation with Yoann Le Petit, Thought Leadership Manager at EIT Urban Mobility and co-author of the study, here on Mobility Innovators on 26 March at 11.00 CET. RSVP here.

The report finds that Europe’s transport networks are designed for a narrow demographic: typically, men aged 25 to 45, who work traditional 9-to-5 jobs, have no care responsibilities, and speak the local language. However, this does not reflect the reality of European society. According to Eurostat, over 100 million people in the EU have care duties, another 100 million live with disabilities, and more than 90 million are aged 65 or older. The gap between existing mobility services and the needs of the wider population is a pressing issue that requires urgent attention.

The report then identifies the most promising trends of the evolving landscape of mobility across Europe, with insights drawn from over 300 startups and more than 100 experts.

One of the main findings of the report is the growing need for holistic transport systems that integrate diverse mobility options. Currently, mobility services are fragmented, with many actors offering poorly connected services. Cooperation across borders, the integration of different transport modes, and the creation of multimodal hubs are crucial for developing a system that serves everyone.

The study also highlights the rapid growth of urban populations and the importance of designing liveable, pedestrian-friendly cities. By 2025, more than 80% of EU residents will live in urban areas, making it essential to prioritise walkability, green spaces, and safer infrastructure. Paris, for instance, has committed to creating 100 hectares of new green spaces.

Another trend identified is the ageing population in the EU, which requires the integration of physical and mental health considerations into mobility planning. By 2030, one in four people in the EU will be aged 64 or older, many of whom are eager to stay active. Mobility can be linked to health by empowering people to move independently, promoting active commuting, and incorporating demographic trends into urban planning. 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.

Safety and security remain a key trend as well. Progress has stalled in the EU, with only a one-percentage-point decrease in road fatalities in 2023 compared to 2022. The report emphasises the need for well-lit, attractive public spaces, reliable public transport, and safe cycling infrastructure to build user trust. Helsinki and Oslo, for instance, achieved the Vision Zero target in 2019 by reducing traffic, limiting access to city centres, and implementing speed limits in residential areas.

Finally, the report explores innovative solutions and untapped potential that could make mobility more inclusive and sustainable, taking insights from the Better Mobility Accelerator, a pan-European innovation programme with headquarters in Lisbon and Vienna.

The data reveal that only 5% of innovations are focused on tourism and only 10% on health, despite the latter being a major trend. Expanding inclusive and sustainable mobility options for these sectors could drive growth and enhance accessibility for a broader range of users.

The Better Mobility Accelerator  goal is to develop innovative mobility solutions and business models tailored to the mobility needs of diverse user groups. The programme is co-funded by EIT Urban Mobility and the European Union. The current call for startups is open until April 21.

Read the  full report here.