The digitization of urban transport is not just about contactless payments. The key is the collection and meaningful use of data that streamline operations, reduce costs, and strengthen residents’ trust in the system. The lecture showed what cities can do today thanks to data and who is helping them with this transition.
Digitizing transport: more than just payments
When digitization is mentioned, many think of paying by card on buses or trams. The essence, however, is above all the collection of data and its thoughtful use to manage public transport. Well-prepared solutions deliver more efficient routes, better timetables, and smoother movement around the city.
The result is not only savings for operators and cities, but also transparent evidence that helps politicians continue to support digitization. Residents’ trust grows when they see measurable improvements backed by real data. And that is precisely what attracts new investment in modern solutions.
From GPS and sensors to smart intersections
Cities today use data from GPS and various sensors that count line occupancy and monitor passenger flow. On a shared data platform, routes and timetables are then optimized, and public transport priority at intersections can be ensured. A tram or bus can thus communicate with the traffic light and shorten the wait.
High-quality analysis and data cleansing are key: knowing which data you really need and what you will use it for. Continuous processing makes it possible to improve operations practically in real time and better inform passengers. Decisions are thus based not on impressions, but on current and verified figures.
Programs, partners, and pilots across Europe
EIT Urban Mobility is the largest European community for innovation in urban mobility with diverse yet interconnected members – cities, companies, and universities – of which there are more than 1200. It helps cities with grants, investments, and by connecting them with specialized companies through the Matching Connect program. It also supports startups by providing funding and connections to municipal or industrial partners.
Typical projects include monitoring line occupancy, data-driven planning, and public transport priority at intersections. Partners such as Teoremus, Škoda X, CDA, and Mastercard collaborate on them; Teoremus also offers a comprehensive approach to data collection and management. As an example of a small pilot, the Raptor program saw Nitra receive a grant to count boardings and alightings in order to adjust routes and timetables.
