Improving mobility systems in Europe can only succeed if transport data is shared at all levels, local leaders say

Advancing data and mobility is of crucial importance in shaping the future of transport and logistics. In an opinion on the European Mobility Data Space, adopted during the plenary session on 8 October, members of the European Committee of the Regions (CoR) called for enhanced collaboration among the public and private mobility service providers in sharing data systems to improve public services and facilitate seamless integration of transport data across different modes and geographic regions. 

Members of the CoR stressed that transport is largely managed by local and regional authorities (LRAs) and that mobility has a profound impact on the daily lives of EU citizens. A well-functioning and integrated transport system is vital for the Single Market and for Europe's overall prosperity and competitiveness. LRAs are not only responsible for transport services, but also for managing the use of public space, which is critical for all transport modes.  

CoR members called in the opinion for open access to transport data, which is essential for public authorities, their transport operators, private mobility service providers and individual transport users. 

They highlighted that mobility is still organized in silos based on transport modes, and much of the data needed for the European Mobility Data Space remains stored in isolated and non-interoperable systems. They further emphasised the need for LRAs to have access to comprehensive data that reveals mobility patterns, enabling informed policymaking, infrastructure management, and the creation of a seamless mobility system. This system should provide a level playing field where sustainable transport modes and public transport take a leading role. 

However, achieving an open playing field is hindered by the difficulty of managing large amounts of transport data, generated by both public and private operators like travel apps, mobile providers, and vehicle manufacturers and making this data interoperable. A decentralized approach, where data remains with owners but is accessible through a common governance system, would therefore open the door to more flexible mobility solutions and inclusive participation from new service providers. 

Quote:  

Rapporteur Zdeněk Hrib (CZ/Greens), First Deputy Mayor of Prague: "The European Mobility Data Space will empower cities and regions make smarter decisions with real data, leading to better public transport, improved infrastructure, and more sustainable urban mobility. Successful implementation of this concept will be pivotal in reshaping our overall mobility landscape.” 

More information:  

• The common European mobility data space (EMDS) aims to facilitate data access, pooling and sharing for more efficient, safe, sustainable and resilient transport. It builds on initiatives and applications related to transport data and will be supported by initiatives to boost interoperability, security, and the availability and provision of data and services.