Brussels launches new MaaS app

STIB-MIVB – the public transport operator in Brussels, Belgium – has announced the launch of a new mobility-as-a-service (MaaS) app which allows users to plan, book and pay for different modes of transport within the city.

Developed by Lithuanian tech firm Trafi, the Floya app includes four public transport modes (train, bus, tram and metro) and several shared scooter, bike and car services, with users able to book and pay for journeys in one place.

The app will also give commuters information about disruptions or detours along the way, suggesting alternative routes in real time.

“We are proud to offer Brussels residents and all visitors this innovative app,” said STIB CEO, Brieuc de Meeûs.

“Floya integrates our public transport by offering a complementary offer within soft mobility, for greater ease of use, efficiency and flexibility in their movements in the city, anytime and anywhere.

“Today, urban mobility is being enriched by new players, [and] by working together, we become stronger and, thanks to digital technology, we can offer a whole range of customised mobility solutions.

“This is fully in line with STIB’s core mission and helps us contribute even better to modal shift.”

The operator says the new platform will complement its existing app by giving users the flexibility to combine different mobility options, adding there would “no longer be any need to download 10 apps to access a whole range of options”.

STIB, which has 350,000 active monthly users on its own app, has set a target to have 25,000 active monthly users on Floya by December 2024.

Along with the public transport operators, five private shared mobility operators – Villo!, Dott, Tier, Cambio and Poppy – are currently integrated into the app, with Green Taxis, Voi and Bolt expected to be added in the coming months.

“This is an evolving application which will be enriched with new features in the months to come and whose integration will be more and more thorough,” added de Meeûs.

The new tool will be presented to the general public during European Mobility Week, which takes place from September 16 to 22.

MaaS guidelines

An increasing number of European cities, including Berlin, Helsinki and Antwerp, have implemented MaaS schemes, and last month the UK Government announced a new set of guidelines for public and private mobility operators on how best to approach the concept.

The 34 recommendations primarily focus on accessibility and access issues, with app providers encouraged to incorporate features that cater to individuals with different needs, including suggesting wheelchair-accessible routes and stations, as well as ensuring step-free alternatives for all routes.

“Now is an opportune time to take a  voluntary, guidance-based approach through a code of practice  to enable these platforms to emerge  and  mitigate  any unintended consequences,” the code states.

“A code of practice  will enable us to support MaaS as it  grows  without introducing regulations at a time  that could stifle innovation  in this emerging industry.”

Image: STIB