Mobilitätsforschung

Mobilitätsforschung, also referred to as mobility research, is an interdisciplinary field that studies the planning, design, operation, and evaluation of transport systems and human movement patterns. It draws on urban planning, civil engineering, economics, geography, sociology, and environmental science to understand how mobility influences social equity, economic development, and environmental sustainability.

Key topics include the analysis of traffic flow, the assessment of public transportation networks, the impact of new mobility services such as ride‑sharing and micro‑transit, and the integration of active transportation modes like walking and cycling. Researchers use simulation models, geographic information systems, and field experiments to evaluate the efficiency, safety, and accessibility of different mobility options. They also examine the role of policy instruments such as congestion pricing, emission zones, and investment in infrastructure in shaping mobility behavior.

Recent trends focus on the digital transformation of mobility, the rise of shared mobility, and the integration of multimodal travel plans. Data analytics, connected vehicles, and artificial intelligence are increasingly employed to manage traffic congestion and optimize route planning. Moreover, sustainability goals drive the exploration of electric and low‑emission vehicles, as well as the promotion of low‑speed transportation corridors.

Challenges in mobilitätsforschung include managing the complexity of urban mobility systems, addressing data privacy concerns, and ensuring that mobility solutions are equitable and accessible to all population groups. Future research aims to develop resilient transportation networks capable of adapting to demographic shifts, climate change, and evolving technology, while maintaining high levels of mobility for economic vitality and quality of life.