Sustainable Multimodal Transport

Multimodality takes advantage of different modes of transport, such as convenience, speed, cost, reliability, predictability, etc. and in combination can offer more efficient transportation solutions for people and goods, which help reduce congestion on the roads, making the whole sector more environmentally friendly, safer and more cost-effective.

“Multimodality” in the field of transport or “multimodal transport” refers to the use of different modes (or means) of transport on the same journey. This concept applies to both freight and passenger transport.

In this respect, multimodality will contribute to achieving a truly sustainable and integrated transport system.

The Commission is committed to reducing CO2 emissions, congestion and air pollution to improve the quality of life of European citizens and to reach the goals set by the Paris Agreement. At the same time, it wants to ensure that European transport is safe and our industry remains competitive on the global market. To support these aims EU Transport Commissioner Violeta Bulc called for 2018 to be the “Year of Multimodality” – a year during which the Commission will raise the importance of multimodality for the EU transport system.

Throughout the year the Commission 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

Throughout the year the Commission 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’.

Digitalisation

Digitalisation with focus on the electronic transport documents proposal, digital corridor information systems and multimodal travel information and ticketing;

Economic incentives

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

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).

Protect passenger rights

Working towards a legislative framework to protect passenger rights in multimodal journeys.

The promotion of ‘active mobility’

The promotion of ‘active mobility’ integrated with other modes in particular in an urban and smart cities context.