With the launch of the event “2018: Year of Multimodality”, ERTICO has already started focusing on multi modal transport, a concept introduced by the European Commission with the aim of reducing CO2 emissions, congestion and air pollution, improving the quality of life of European citizens.

But what exactly does Multimodality mean and why is it so important?

According to the European Commission, “Multimodality” in the transport sector, or “multimodal transport” refers to the use of different modes (or means) of transport on the same journey. The concept applies to both freight and passenger transport and in both cases can now be driven on by the growing trend towards digitalisation.  Multimodality takes advantage of the strengths of the different modes, such as convenience, speed, cost, reliability, predictability, etc, and in combination, can offer more efficient transport solutions for people and goods.

Thanks to Multimodality, we can hope for less congested roads, more environmentally friendly transport solutions, increased safety and cost efficiency.

Throughout the year the Commission will put together a series of legislative and policy initiatives and events aiming at promoting the functioning of the transport sector as a fully integrated ‘system’.

Key thematic areas will include:

  • Digitalisation with focus on the electronic transport documents proposal, digital corridor information systems and multimodal travel information and ticketing;
  • The use of economic incentives to promote multimodality through e.g. the revision of the Combined Transport Directive and a new study on the internalisation of external costs;
  • Support to multimodal infrastructure and innovation, physical and digital, in particular in the context of the Connecting Europe Facility, Horizon 2020 and the preparation of the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) and the new Framework Programme for research and innovation (FP9);
  • Working towards a legislative framework to protect passenger rights in multimodal journeys;
  • The promotion of ‘active mobility‘ integrated with other modes in particular in an urban and smart cities context.

To find out more about the European Commission’s events for this year regarding digitalisation, economic incentives, infrastructure and innovation in transport, visit the Commission’s webpage at this link.

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