What technical aspects should be considered before deciding to implement an integrated mobility solution?

‍To answer this question, we have not only relied on our more than six years of experience deploying digital mobility projects. The conversations we have had with different stakeholders in the sector, whether at a stand, a round table, or simply over coffee, at the recent events we have attended, have given us a privileged view of the technological challenges facing the mobility industry in achieving a more sustainable future through interconnected transport.

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Main Technological Challenges in Connected Mobility

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1. Interoperability

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‍Ensuring that different connected mobility systems and devices can communicate with each other effectively and seamlessly is crucial for creating an integrated and efficient transport network. To achieve this, it is necessary to:

• Digitize the entire offer in the same application
• Provide real-time information
• Have complete travel planning, i.e., the ability to plan, book, and pay for trips easily and without complications in a centralized manner

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2. Data Management

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‍Efficient data management is a critical aspect of any connected mobility system. Contrary to the myth, these platforms are designed to integrate data from various sources, offering cities and operators a comprehensive view of mobility data. This dataset enhances better decision-making and improves the overall system's performance.

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3. Privacy

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‍The more users share their data in an integrated mobility solution, the better the overall transportation service will be. However, it is expected that not all users will be comfortable sharing their transportation habits and preferences. Ensuring the protection of user privacy when collecting and processing personal data in connected mobility must be a priority.

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4. Cybersecurity

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‍From our own experience, as a solution that integrates different means of transport in one place, we consider that large infrastructure operators have advanced mechanisms and solutions that provide a high level of security, such as access control.To protect the data and systems of connected mobility against cyber threats, such as hacking and malware attacks, the connected mobility ecosystem must address the following challenges, in addition to data privacy mentioned in the previous point:

• Identity theft: Implementation of biometric mechanisms to ensure authenticity
• Data sharing between platforms: Introduction of new actors outside the pure mobility environment, with the challenge of connecting and sharing information securely with the client.
• Information theft: Protection of all information at all levels, including the protection of the mobile device, point-to-point communications, and platforms.
• Onboard validation control: Encryption of information and protection against fraudulent copies in unattended validation mechanisms.
• Communication architecture: Cyberattacks can expose the interoperability of transport operators, communication infrastructure, alter control centers available through Internet infrastructure, and distort data sources (APIs), among other issues
• Autonomous and self-driving vehicles for shared ride services: The new generations of autonomous vehicles, with their advanced features and greater connectivity, become increasingly complex, which increases the risk of cyberattacks.
• Electromobility: Smart charging requires a complex system that involves orchestrating various services, such as measuring and paying for energy, and communication between the electric vehicle (EV) battery management system and the charging point.

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5. Infrastructure

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‍Developing the necessary infrastructure, such as communication networks and charging points, to support the efficient and sustainable implementation and operation of connected mobility. Connectivity capability is key, especially for transport operators with a fleet of thousands of vehicles that constantly transmit data. Data must be updated in real-time so as not to affect users' route planning.

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As the mobility industry moves towards an interconnected future, addressing these five technical challenges with care and precision is vital. It is also essential to continue collaborating and developing technologies that enable a smooth and secure transition towards more sustainable and efficient mobility.

At Meep, we have created a connected digital mobility solution that enables comprehensive connectivity for all modes of transport in the city, covering everything from planning to payment. Our alliance with key actors who can drive the transformation of mobility, such as major transport operators, airports, and micromobility providers (such as Aena, Globalvia, and Alsa), has allowed us to deploy our connected digital mobility solutions in 25 cities across 7 different countries.

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