The “Mobil²@Lu” project examines how a station-based sharing system can boost public transportation use among commuters. The sharing system is equipped with bicycles and e-scooters and connects “Birkengrund Station” with the surrounding industrial areas.
The implementation is being scientifically monitored; among other things, usage patterns are being analyzed, and recommendations for action are being derived to ensure the system’s continuation after the project ends.
The project makes public transit more attractive and establishes an alternative to commuting by private car. To this end, the city of Ludwigsfelde, together with its partners, is setting up six mobility stations - two of which are at “Birkengrund Station” - and will put another station into operation during the course of the project.
The walking distance to the mobility station in “Industriepark Ost” is 42 minutes for 2.7 kilometers; by bike or e-scooter, the travel time drops to 10 minutes. The starting point is the lack of bus connections and schedules that do not align with work hours, which makes recruiting staff more difficult, increases private vehicle use, and contributes to companies’ carbon footprints. The project thus addresses the “last mile” between the train station and the workplace.
Our institute develops concepts for sharing services, provides scientific support for their implementation, and systematically analyzes usage data. Based on surveys, interviews, and user statistics, we generate reliable recommendations for the further implementation of public transit-linked mobility services.
| Project Title | Mobil²@Lu – Establishment of Mobility Stations to Shape a Sustainable Transportation Transition |
|---|---|
| Duration | February 2024 - October 2025 |
| Funding Agency | Federal Ministry of Digital Affairs and Transportation |
| Collaborating Partners | IPG Infrastruktur- und Projektentwicklungsgesellschaft mbH Fraunhofer IML überall GmbH |
| Project Manager | IPG Infrastruktur- und Projektentwicklungsgesellschaft mbH |
"Industrial and commercial areas have not traditionally been typical locations for sharing services. 'Mobil²@Lu' demonstrates how mobility stations equipped with bike and e-scooter sharing services strengthen the first and last mile of public transit and make business locations more attractive."
Nicole Biedermann, M. A., Project Manager for Passenger Mobility at Fraunhofer IML
The evaluation shows measurable effects on accessibility, usage, and prospects for continuing the service:
The mobility stations serve as a real-world laboratory for public transit-supporting services outside of inner-city areas. The project combines concept development for the sharing system, implementation consulting, surveys in participating companies, and the analysis of user data. In addition, it involves digital integration into the regional transit authority’s maps, information services, and MaaS structures. This results in robust recommendations for action regarding locations, equipment, operation, and acceptance. At the same time, the approach serves as a precursor to the VBB mobility stations.
The project demonstrates how local governments, academia, industry partners, and employers can jointly establish a sustainable structure for connected mobility in an industrial area, thereby strengthening local public transit.
Fraunhofer Institute for Material Flow and Logistics IML