On Demand: Munich tests micro-buses and e-rickshaws in the city
The Bavarian capital Munich has announced the start of a pilot project in the old town for the summer, testing microbuses in regular service and e-rickshaws on-demand. This decision was made by the City Council's Mobility Committee. The new modes of transport will be available to all citizens. In line with the goal of an "old town for everyone," the project aims to improve accessibility for individuals who find some routes between Sendlinger Tor, Isartor, and Maffeistraße too far to walk – for example, people with limited mobility or those who need to transport items. Both services will be available free of charge during the test phase.
Microbuses connect central points of the old town on a ring route
During the pilot phase, the microbuses will run from 8 AM to 10 PM approximately every 10 minutes on a ring route connecting central points such as Sendlinger Tor, Sendlinger Straße, Viktualienmarkt, Tal, Isartor, Maximilianstraße, and Maffeistraße. Four electrically operated microbuses will be in service simultaneously.
E-rickshaws as a transport option
Additionally, e-rickshaws are expected to provide flexible, need-based mobility within the old town ring from 7 AM to midnight. The operation of the e-rickshaws will be awarded through a tender. It is planned to use pedelecs that offer step-free entry. Furthermore, a separate rickshaw will be available for transporting people in wheelchairs.
Pilot phase tests feasibility and benefits of the offerings
As a temporary project, the test run serves to collect data and insights. During the pilot phase, important aspects are therefore evaluated, such as user acceptance, impacts on traffic safety, possible financing models, as well as traffic and operational processes. Additionally, the extent to which the offerings meet the needs of city residents and how they can be harmoniously integrated into the existing traffic concept will be investigated. User feedback is intended to help assess feasibility and potential benefits of the offerings, particularly with regard to their costs. Based on the results, the mobility department and MVG will propose a concept on how routes in the old town can continue to be shortened permanently for people using small transport means.
Foundation of the pilot phase: Extensive market research on target groups
Prior to the pilot phase, qualitative market research was conducted. It examined the mobility behavior of selected target groups, such as individuals with various types of mobility restrictions and sensory impairments, people who need to transport heavy or bulky items, and those who place special importance on convenience. In addition, workshops were held with the senior citizens' and disabled advisory councils of the state capital. The test run is financed from the funds of the local mobility allowance, which MVG receives. Furthermore, the department of labor and economic affairs (RAW) – subject to the resolution by the full assembly on February 28 – provides funding for the pilot project from the Bavarian special fund "Revitalize City Centers."
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