INIT, in cooperation with various partners and KVV, the public transport authority of Karlsruhe, Germany, recently launched the regiomove app in a beta version in Karlsruhe. The app allows registered users to book their trips by bus, train, car share or bike share with a single click and pay.
The booking and payment platform from INIT eliminates the need for travelers to choose their transportation mode first and then go through the booking process of several different platforms. INIT uses open Application Programming Interfaces (API) that allow integration of the data from each of the various partners for a seamless user experience.
Even though the app is in beta mode, it is already operating in full functionality. In September, the app is set to be available for the public in the Apple and Google app stores. Future plans include incorporation of taxis, on-demand-shuttle services and e-scooters.
Mobility Ports
The creation of mobility hubs in the region, also called “ports”, is the next step in the regiomove project. This is where passengers will be able to easily transfer from one mode to another. To achieve this, an extensive analysis of locations and mobility demands has been conducted. The first seven port locations have been determined, along with which modes of transportation will meet there. A modular construction will make it possible to adapt the ports to the specific demands and requirements of the different locations, and still give them an unmistakable and unified brand. Build out of ports is expected to begin Fall of 2020.
Moving a region
INIT and the regiomove partners are confident people will consider intermodal journeys much more often now that they can use one single app to book and pay for their travel throughout the Karlsruhe region.
Dr. Jürgen Greschner, CSO of INIT, commented, “regiomove demonstrates what the future of urban mobility will look like. We believe car ownership will decrease significantly over the next decade in favor of intermodal platforms that orchestrate all mobility offerings of a city or region. For us, as the supplier of the booking platform, it was important to realize a ‘single-sign-on’ approach in order for this to be a truly intermodal approach.”
The project is a testament to how innovative and effective Open Mobility Platforms can be for transportation providers and their communities.