Different cities had varying models reflecting local conditions, with common challenges and gaps. Understanding these baseline models helps clarify how GEMINI builds on existing solutions.
Key Challenges in Pre-GEMINI Models:
- Fragmented services: Multiple, unintegrated options (bike, car sharing, microtransit) hinder smooth user journeys.
- Operator-driven design: Limited user involvement resulted in misaligned pricing, routing, and schedules.
- Low awareness: Weak branding and outreach caused low visibility and usage.
- Underutilized digital tools: Apps often lacked intuitive design and integration.
- Inconsistent branding: Confusing visual identities reduced user trust.
- Limited marketing capacity: Public sectors lacked resources to promote effectively.
- Poor local adaptation: Imported solutions often failed to fit local needs and cultures.
The were common systemic issues in different cities:
- Private car dominance remains strong.
- Low user engagement due to poor communication and digital friction.
- Siloed systems prevent seamless multimodal travel.
- Insufficient understanding of local user needs and preferences.
What This Means for Mobility Innovation
Successful mobility models require a blend of:
- Technical functionality
- Social acceptance
- Operational sustainability
- Clear communication and visibility
- Real-world integration
The GEMINI Academy provides tools and insights to help cities design models that work in complex environments.
Conclusion
Pre-GEMINI models reveal gaps in user experience, communication, and local fit. Learning from these challenges allows cities to create more inclusive, integrated, and sustainable shared mobility ecosystems.
The next chapter will explore how Mobility Living Labs evolved these models in practice and what they have learned from the pilots.